MOGADISHU, Somalia — Major General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhidin, Commander of the Sonali National Army, warmly received a high-level delegation from Türkiye in Mogadishu on Thursday.
The delegation, led by General Soner Oruçoğlu, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Defence for the Republic of Türkiye, comprised senior officials specializing in military strategy and development.
The pivotal talks, which took place at the Army headquarters, focused on strategic enhancements for the Somali military. The agenda included extensive discussions on the provision of advanced training programs tailored to meet the evolving security challenges in the region, as well as the supply of modern military equipment to equip Somali forces effectively.
Major General Ibrahim Sheikh Muhidin took the opportunity to publicly thank the Turkish government for its unwavering commitment to Somalia’s stability and development. “The support we receive from Türkiye is not just about military aid; it’s a testament to the enduring friendship between our nations,” he stated during a joint press conference.
The Turkish delegation, in response, reaffirmed their country’s dedication to supporting Somalia’s efforts in building a robust, self-sufficient defense force. General Oruçoğlu emphasized, “We are here to ensure that the Somali military can stand on its own feet, capable of protecting not only its sovereignty but also contributing to regional peace.”
This visit marks another chapter in the ongoing military cooperation between Somalia and Türkiye, which has seen Türkiye play a significant role in training Somali troops, reconstructing military infrastructure, and providing logistical support.
The cooperation is part of a broader initiative to enhance Somalia’s military capabilities, aiming to reduce dependence on international forces like the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS).
The deepening of military ties is seen as a critical step towards stabilizing Somalia, a country that has faced significant security challenges over the years, including threats from Al-Shabaab militants.
The enhanced partnership is expected to facilitate better intelligence sharing and joint military exercises, potentially setting a precedent for other international collaborations in the region.
This strategic partnership not only strengthens Somalia’s defense capabilities but also positions Türkiye as a key player in African security dynamics, reflecting Ankara’s growing influence in Africa’s geopolitical landscape.
