ANKARA – Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan met with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Ankara on Monday, a meeting that underscores the deepening ties between the two nations.
The Turkish Foreign Ministry announced the meeting on X, without providing further details on the discussions that took place.
The relationship between Türkiye and Somalia has been on a positive trajectory since 2011 when Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, then the Prime Minister, became the first non-African leader to visit Somalia in over two decades. This visit marked the beginning of a significant partnership based on mutual benefit.
Since then, Türkiye has been actively involved in supporting Somalia’s development through various initiatives. The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) has implemented more than 150 development projects in Somalia, aimed at enhancing the country’s infrastructure and social services.
Türkiye’s commitment to Somalia is also evident in its diplomatic presence. The Turkish Embassy in Mogadishu is the largest in Africa, reflecting the importance Türkiye places on its relationship with Somalia. Additionally, Türkiye has established its largest overseas military training facility in Mogadishu, which plays a crucial role in training the Somali national army.
The meeting between Foreign Minister Fidan and President Mohamud is a testament to the ongoing cooperation and friendship between Türkiye and Somalia. While the specifics of their discussions remain undisclosed, it is clear that both nations are committed to strengthening their ties and working together for mutual benefit.
