MOGADISHU, Somalia – In a move that underscores the deepening relations between Somalia and Turkey, their governments have inked a fresh financial cooperation deal. This step marks yet another milestone in a relationship that has notably blossomed over the past ten years.

The accord was formalized on Monday by Somalia’s Defense Minister Abdulkadir Nur and his Turkish counterpart, Yaşar Güler. Word on the street from the Ministry of Defense is that Turkey is set to extend financial support for military modernization initiatives, with the Somali National Army on the path to technological advancement and revamped equipment.

A spotlight of the partnership will be the injection of funds into vital infrastructure works, deemed crucial in upgrading conditions for the Somali National Armed Forces. As Somalia steps up to shoulder its security duties, expanding military prowess is on the agenda.

Previously, in February, the nations formalized a defense accord granting Turkey significant influence over Mogadishu’s sea-faring capabilities, with the intent to curb unauthorized and disruptive activities in its maritime zones.

Come July, the Turkish legislative body gave the green light for the dispatch of naval assets to guard Somalia’s expansive coastline. This fleet includes a team of maritime oil researchers whose vessel finally docked over the weekend.

The research ship Oruc Reis is on a mission to perform seismic scans in Somali waters, aiming to amass data for potential oil and gas drilling planned to unfold over an estimated span of half a year. These resources are anticipated to uplift the economic landscape for Somalia’s citizens.

Turkey’s engagement in boosting Somalia’s security and growth has been monumental since President Tayyip Erdogan set foot in Somalia back in 2011. Home to Turkey’s largest overseas military training hub, Somalia stands as a testament to this robust alliance.