The federal government of Somalia has approved an agreement with the Turkey aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation and strategic partnership between the two countries, especially in the fields of maritime security and the blue economy. This was reported by the “Sonna” press agency.
Under the agreement, which was signed on February 8 by their respective defense ministers, Turkey will provide training and equipment to the Somali Navy, allowing Somalia to protect its marine resources and territorial waters from threats such as terrorism, piracy and “foreign interference”. The agreement will also boost economic development and trade relations between the two countries, as Turkey will help Somalia tap its vast fishing, tourism and energy potential.
Prime Minister Hamse Abdi Barre, who chaired the cabinet meeting that approved the agreement, hailed it as a “historic” achievement for the country and thanked Turkey for its unwavering support and friendship. “Today is a historic day for the country, the Council of Ministers voted on an important agreement that will be remembered in the history of Somalia,” Barre said. “This agreement will end Somalia without an ally and without a big brother. Somalia will have a true ally, a friend and a brother on the international stage,” he added.
Barre then recalled Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan’s visit to Somalia in 2011, which he said was a turning point in Somalia’s recovery from drought and political instability. “His visit accelerated Somalia’s exit from the transitional state and its official recognition as a central government. And today, when our country faces multiple threats to our resources, they have once again extended a brotherly hand and offered to empower our Navy to counter any threat to our marine resources,” he concluded.
The agreement was welcomed by the Somali public and the international community, who praised it as a positive step for peace and stability in the region. Somalia and Turkey have enjoyed close and cordial relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1960. Turkey is one of the largest donors and investors in Somalia and has contributed to various sectors such as health, education, infrastructure and aid humanitarian.
Source: Agenzia Nova
