Somalia and Türkiye move to fast-track implementation of key security and maritime agreements signed in 2024.

Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has begun a series of high-level meetings in Türkiye aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation between Mogadishu and Ankara, reinforcing the defense of Somalia’s territorial unity, and fast-tracking the implementation of key agreements previously signed by the two countries.

President Hassan Sheikh, who is on an official visit to Türkiye, is holding talks with senior Turkish officials focusing on security cooperation, diplomatic coordination, and the protection of Somalia’s sovereignty. The meetings come at a time of heightened regional tension following Israel’s announcement that it had recognized Somaliland, a move that Somalia has strongly rejected as a violation of its unity and international law.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has openly opposed Israel’s move, describing it as an unacceptable interference in the unity and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Somalia. Ankara reaffirmed its long-standing position in support of Somalia’s sovereignty and warned against actions that could destabilize the Horn of Africa region.

According to emerging reports, the two sides are also accelerating the implementation of a maritime security agreement signed in 2024. Under the agreement, the Turkish Navy is expected to play a role in supporting the protection of Somalia’s territorial waters, strengthening coastal security, and enhancing Somalia’s capacity to safeguard its maritime resources.

Türkiye has been one of Somalia’s closest strategic partners over the past decade, providing extensive support in areas including military training, security sector reform, humanitarian assistance, and infrastructure development. The current discussions are seen as part of broader efforts to deepen this partnership amid evolving regional dynamics.

Officials familiar with the talks say the meetings are also aimed at coordinating diplomatic efforts at the regional and international levels, particularly in response to developments viewed by Mogadishu as threats to its national unity. Somalia has emphasized that any attempt to undermine its sovereignty will be addressed through diplomatic, legal, and international mechanisms.

The visit underscores Somalia’s commitment to strengthening alliances with key partners and ensuring that agreements reached in previous years translate into concrete actions on the ground. As discussions continue, both sides have reiterated their shared interest in regional stability, respect for international law, and the preservation of Somalia’s unity and independence.