Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has signed a 10-year defense and economic cooperation agreement with Turkey, after it was ratified by the Somali parliament. The deal aims to boost Somalia’s security, independence, and maritime resources, as well as its development of the blue economy and fish production.
The president announced the signing on his Facebook page, saying, “I have signed the Defense and Economic Cooperation Agreement between the governments of Somalia and Turkey, which is part of our efforts to protect security, resources and independence, independence and territorial integrity of Somalia.”
He praised Turkey as a “true and reliable brother” who has supported Somalia many times. He said the agreement will help Somalia build a navy that can defend its sea and stop terrorism, piracy, illegal fishing, and any external threats.
The agreement was first signed by the defense ministers of the two countries on Feb. 8 in Turkey. It was then approved by the Somali cabinet and parliament in a 213-3 vote. Under the agreement, Turkey will build, train and equip the Somali navy, and support the development of the blue economy and fish production.
