The President of Somalia, Mr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, praised the parliament’s ratification of a defense and economic cooperation agreement with Turkey, saying it was vital for the protection and development of the country.
The president, who addressed the media at the presidential palace, said that Somalia’s sea was facing many challenges such as illegal fishing, terrorism, piracy, and pollution, but now they have found a reliable partner to help them.
The president said that the agreement, which was signed by the defense ministers of both countries in Ankara on February 8, 2024, will last for 10 years, during which Turkey will build and equip the Somali navy.
“The agreement we signed with the Turkish government will last for 10 years and the Somali navy will be built,” President Hassan Sheikh said.
The president also said that the agreement was crucial for the economic growth and the exploitation of the blue resources of Somalia, which has the longest coastline in Africa.
The agreement, which was approved by 213 out of 216 members of the two Houses of the Federal Parliament on Wednesday, grants Turkey comprehensive authority over the management and defense of Somalia’s waters, as well as helping Somalia develop its naval capabilities.
The agreement comes amid rising tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia, following a provisional agreement between the regional administration of Somaliland and Ethiopia, which the Somali government has rejected as a violation of its sovereignty.
The Turkish government has expressed its support for Somalia’s territorial integrity and stability, and has been involved in various projects and initiatives in the country, such as building a military base, running an airport, providing humanitarian aid, and training Somali soldiers.
