Somalia and Turkey have reaffirmed their close partnership during a high-level meeting aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and expanding Ankara’s support to Mogadishu.
Somalia’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Ali Balcad, announced via his official X account that he held what he described as “fruitful discussions” with Turkey’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Nur Yilmaz. The talks centered on deepening the historic ties between the two nations, with Turkey pledging to scale up its assistance across humanitarian, security, and economic sectors.
Balcad expressed his gratitude to Turkey, recalling its unwavering support to Somalia in times of crisis, from emergency humanitarian aid during the devastating famine of 2011, to investments in rebuilding infrastructure, education, and health facilities. Turkey has also been instrumental in training Somalia’s security forces and operating the largest foreign military base in Mogadishu, a cornerstone of Somalia’s ongoing fight against armed groups.
The strategic relationship between Mogadishu and Ankara goes beyond aid. Turkey is now among Somalia’s biggest development partners, with Turkish companies managing Mogadishu’s port and airport, and investing in major infrastructure projects. Ankara’s footprint in Somalia reflects its broader Africa policy, positioning Turkey as a key ally for nations seeking alternatives to traditional Western partners.
Analysts say Somalia views Turkey not only as a trusted development partner but also as a diplomatic shield on the global stage, with Ankara often amplifying Mogadishu’s voice in international forums. For Turkey, Somalia represents both an opportunity to project influence in the Horn of Africa and a gateway to the wider Red Sea and Indian Ocean trade routes.
As both nations look ahead, officials from Mogadishu and Ankara underscored their shared vision of a “strategic partnership for stability and prosperity.” With Turkey’s continued commitment, Somalia hopes to accelerate its state-building process, boost economic recovery, and solidify its position in the geopolitically critical Horn of Africa.
