Caaqil News - In a significant diplomatic engagement, the President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, H.E. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, held a phone conversation with the President of the Republic of Turkey, H.E. Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. The two leaders discussed the status and future of bilateral relations between Somalia and Turkey, with a strong focus on enhancing cooperation in the areas of security, economic development, and investment.
This high-level conversation comes at a time when Somalia is pursuing regional and global partnerships to bolster stability, economic revitalization, and social progress amid ongoing challenges. The call further affirmed the strategic relationship between the two nations, rooted in mutual respect and shared objectives.
A Historical Partnership Forged in Crisis
Somalia and Turkey’s relationship has deepened significantly over the past decade, especially since 2011 when President Erdoğan, then Prime Minister, made a historic visit to Mogadishu during one of Somalia’s worst humanitarian crises. The visit was a defining moment in Somalia-Turkey relations, leading to increased Turkish diplomatic, economic, and humanitarian engagement.
Since then, Turkey has emerged as one of Somalia’s most reliable and visible allies, implementing large-scale infrastructure and humanitarian projects. Turkish development agencies, contractors, and military trainers have played an active role in helping Somalia rebuild after decades of conflict and state collapse.
Security Cooperation at the Heart of Dialogue
During the recent phone call, the two presidents emphasized the critical role of security cooperation. President Hassan Sheikh thanked President Erdoğan for Turkey’s unwavering support in training, equipping, and professionalizing Somali security forces. Turkish assistance has been vital in building Somalia’s security architecture, especially in the fight against the Al-Shabaab terrorist group.
President Hassan underscored that Somalia's long-term stability depends on strong and self-sufficient national security institutions. He emphasized that Turkey’s military training programs, particularly those based in the Turkish-run military academy in Mogadishu, have helped shape a new generation of disciplined Somali soldiers.
In response, President Erdoğan reiterated his country’s commitment to continuing its support for Somalia’s stabilization and defense sector. He assured President Hassan that Turkey will keep investing in security cooperation, helping Somalia enhance its counterterrorism capabilities and border control mechanisms.
Economic Development and Investment
Beyond security, the conversation extended to economic issues. President Hassan expressed gratitude for Turkey’s role in building essential infrastructure in Somalia. He invited Turkish investors and business leaders to explore emerging opportunities in the Somali market, especially in agriculture, fisheries, construction, logistics, and renewable energy.
Somalia, he said, is undergoing an economic transformation driven by reforms, diaspora investments, and a growing entrepreneurial youth population. “With the right partners,” he stated, “Somalia can become a hub for trade and innovation in East Africa.”
The two leaders agreed on the need to deepen economic ties by encouraging bilateral trade, joint ventures, and private sector cooperation. Turkey has already been instrumental in operating Mogadishu Port and the capital’s main international airport under public-private partnership models.
President Erdoğan reaffirmed Turkey’s interest in investing in long-term development projects in Somalia. He expressed his government’s readiness to assist Somalia in upgrading public infrastructure, expanding access to clean water, and boosting healthcare and education services across the country.
Supporting Social Development and Public Services
The presidents also highlighted the importance of improving access to public services in Somalia. President Erdoğan praised Somali efforts to expand education, health, and local governance systems, and pledged that Turkish agencies such as TIKA (Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency) would continue to support these areas.
The Turkish government has constructed hospitals, schools, and roads in various parts of Somalia, including the Erdoğan Hospital (formerly Digfeer) in Mogadishu. This hospital remains one of the largest and most advanced medical facilities in the country, providing critical healthcare services to thousands of citizens each year.
President Hassan noted that Somalia’s recovery must be people-centered. “Our partnership must reach the ordinary Somali citizen,” he said, “especially youth and women who are the backbone of our nation.”
President Erdoğan acknowledged this sentiment and committed to aligning Turkish assistance with Somalia’s national development priorities, ensuring that aid efforts translate into real and sustainable improvements in people's lives.
A Message of Solidarity and Congratulations
During the call, President Hassan congratulated President Erdoğan and the Turkish people for their recent progress in advancing peace and dialogue with internal opposition groups, specifically referring to the negotiations related to the Kurdish PKK conflict.
He hailed Turkey’s willingness to pursue peaceful solutions and noted that the country’s experience in conflict resolution and post-conflict development offers valuable lessons for Somalia. The Somali president emphasized that peace in Turkey contributes positively to regional and international stability, which Somalia welcomes wholeheartedly.
In return, President Erdoğan thanked President Hassan for his kind words and reaffirmed Turkey’s friendship with the Somali people. He said that Somalia remains a top priority in Turkey’s Africa engagement strategy and that his government sees the East African nation as a key ally and strategic partner.
Turkey: Somalia’s Most Strategic Ally?
In recent years, Turkey has distinguished itself as one of Somalia’s most committed and dependable international allies. Its engagement has gone far beyond humanitarian assistance to encompass long-term partnerships in infrastructure, education, governance, and national defense.
While many international actors withdrew from Somalia or limited their engagement due to security concerns, Turkey doubled down on its commitment. Its large embassy compound in Mogadishu, military academy, health institutions, and technical support programs stand as a testament to this enduring alliance.
Somali analysts and civil society leaders often refer to Turkey not just as a donor, but as a genuine development partner—one that understands local dynamics and works in close coordination with Somali institutions. This contrasts with some other foreign aid models that have been criticized for being top-down and detached from the needs of local populations.
Turkey’s influence in Somalia is also geopolitical. By securing a strong foothold in the Horn of Africa, Turkey positions itself as a key player in a region that connects the Middle East, East Africa, and the Indian Ocean trade routes. Its presence in Somalia is part of its broader strategy to expand its influence in Africa through diplomacy, trade, and soft power.
What’s Next? Deepening Ties in a Changing World
The call between President Hassan Sheikh and President Erdoğan signals a renewed push to elevate bilateral ties to new heights. Both leaders appear eager to build upon existing partnerships and unlock new areas of collaboration.
Looking ahead, the two governments are expected to formalize additional agreements in the areas of maritime security, trade facilitation, higher education, and technology transfer. Discussions are also underway to expand Turkish scholarship programs for Somali students and increase cultural exchanges between the two nations.
Furthermore, Somali diplomats are exploring ways to enhance coordination with Turkish institutions in regional peacebuilding initiatives and joint efforts to combat violent extremism in the Horn of Africa.
Final Thoughts: A Relationship Built on Trust and Vision
The phone conversation between Presidents Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Recep Tayyip Erdoğan reflects the deep trust and shared vision that underpin Somalia-Turkey relations. It also sends a message to the international community that Somalia is not isolated but is forging meaningful and productive partnerships based on mutual interests and long-term development goals.
For Somalia, Turkey represents more than just a friendly state—it is a symbol of international solidarity, a reliable development ally, and a partner that has stood by the country during its most difficult moments.
As Somalia continues its journey toward recovery and reconstruction, partnerships like the one with Turkey will play a crucial role. The Somali government’s focus on diplomacy, regional integration, and economic growth will need to be supported by committed allies—those willing to invest not only money, but also time, respect, and a shared future.
Turkey, it seems, is ready and willing to do just that.
