On Monday, a pivotal meeting unfolded, building on a series of significant agreements established over the past year. Among these was a landmark accord reached in February 2024, when the Somali cabinet approved a comprehensive 10-year defense and economic cooperation pact with Turkey. This initiative promises a host of collaborations, including naval training, joint patrols, and a revenue-sharing model for offshore resource development. What makes this agreement particularly intriguing is its underlying purpose: to create a robust alliance that not only enhances Somalia’s security but also nurtures its burgeoning economy.

Imagine the vast Somali coastline, teeming with potential yet vulnerable to threats like piracy and illegal fishing. The collaboration with Turkey is designed to safeguard these waters while simultaneously capitalizing on the nation’s rich offshore resources. In a world where maritime security is often overlooked, this partnership offers a refreshing perspective on how nations can work together for mutual benefit.

Fast forward to June 2024, and Turkey and Somalia sealed another important agreement—this time focused on a revenue-sharing framework. Under this agreement, Turkey is entitled to 30% of future income derived from hydrocarbon extraction within Somalia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in exchange for providing crucial technical support and naval defense. This strategic move is viewed by many as a counterbalance to Ethiopia’s contentious Memorandum of Understanding with North Western State of Somalia, which Somalia regards as a breach of its territorial integrity. How often do such geopolitical tensions shape alliances? The dynamics of this situation are a testament to the complexities of international relations.

Turkey’s commitment to Somalia extends deep into the fabric of the country’s reconstruction efforts. Since the reopening of its embassy in Mogadishu in 2011, Turkey has been a staunch ally. The Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency, known as TIKA, has played a pivotal role in upgrading ports and developing fisheries in coastal communities. Furthermore, Turkish firms, including Albayrak, have taken the helm in managing critical infrastructure, such as Mogadishu’s port and airport, for over a decade. Such investments are vital in fostering sustainable development, yet they also raise questions: How do we balance foreign investment with national sovereignty?

In the realm of defense, Turkey has established a notable presence in Somalia through its military training base, known as Camp TURKSOM, located in Mogadishu. Here, Somali cadets are rigorously trained in various areas, including naval operations, infantry tactics, and counterinsurgency strategies. This base is not just a military installation; it represents Turkey’s broader ambition to expand its influence throughout the Horn of Africa. By combining security partnerships with infrastructure investments and diplomatic mediation, Turkey is setting a foundation for a multifaceted relationship that could reshape regional dynamics.

The backdrop to the Ankara meeting is a rising tide of geopolitical competition in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden. As Somalia seeks to leverage its strategic coastline, formalizing bilateral security arrangements has become imperative. Turkey’s Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, has emerged as a pivotal player in mediating relations between Somalia and Ethiopia. This culminated in the signing of the Ankara Declaration on December 12, 2024, an event that brought Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed together under Turkish mediation. This sort of diplomatic engagement is crucial, but it also prompts reflection: Can sustainable peace be fostered through international mediation, or are durable resolutions best achieved through local dialogue?