MOGADISHU, Somalia — Former Somali president Sharif Sheikh Ahmed held talks at his residence with Turkish deputy intelligence chief Ahmet Cemalettin Çelik, amid efforts to ease political tensions following recent clashes in the capital, sources close to the discussions said.
The meeting focused on the latest confrontations in Mogadishu and ways to resolve disputes surrounding Somalia’s electoral process, according to individuals familiar with the talks.
The discussions come as political tensions remain high between the federal government and opposition leaders over the country’s electoral arrangements and broader governance issues.
Sources said the Turkish official is expected to engage with Somali leaders in a bid to encourage dialogue and help reduce tensions. Efforts are also underway to facilitate talks between President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Sharif Sheikh Ahmed as part of attempts to reach a political settlement.
Turkey has long been a key partner of Somalia, maintaining close diplomatic, security and development ties with the Horn of Africa nation.
No official statement was immediately released following the meeting.
