OPINION - Türkiye - Somalia alliance will guarantee stability in the Horn of Africa

- While Defense and Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement may align with the current geopolitical shifts, its foundation was carefully crafted through a decade of bilateral commitment since 2011

- It is evident that the agreement signed extends beyond enhancing Somalia's security and welfare; it fundamentally strengthens regional and international peace

- It is undeniable that the accord with Türkiye will be warmly welcomed by every stakeholder invested in Somalia's prosperity and the overarching safety of the global community

-The author is the Minister of Defense of Somalia

ISTANBUL

Rooted in a profound historical tie, Türkiye-Somalia relations ascended to a new chapter with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s pivotal visit to Somalia in its hour of need in 2011. This bond has endured and thrived through various challenges since that landmark year. Presently, an exceptional level of trust characterizes the connection between the two nations, a rarity in the annals of history. Across the spectrum of opinions and sectors in Somalia, there is a unanimous view when it comes to Türkiye — relations with Türkiye have transcended partisan debate, becoming a universally accepted and unassailable aspect of Somali foreign policy.

A Somalia at peace with itself and the world

While the Defense and Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement may align with the current geopolitical shifts, its foundation was carefully crafted through a decade of bilateral commitment since 2011. Türkiye has consistently extended comprehensive support to Somalia in military and economic spheres from that time forward. As a result, Somalis frequently articulates their appreciation for Türkiye, guided by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's leadership.

Somalia, echoing the sentiments frequently expressed by our respected President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud aspires for 'A Somalia at peace with itself and the world' and approaches its international relations with this guiding principle. We welcome all nations that desire to work with us under the auspices of international law. A testament to this stance is our enduring and cordial relationship with Türkiye, which spans hundreds of years.

A new era in Turkish-Somali relations

The palpable enthusiasm among our people testifies to the fact that this landmark deal with Türkiye marks the commencement of a promising new chapter for both Turks and Somalis. This accord proclaims our shared commitment to collaboration, our deep-seated trust in each other, and our collective affirmation of the significance of global security. The strategic implications of this agreement are poised to safeguard the interests of the wider international community. As evidenced by the situation in Yemen, Somalia's strategic geopolitical location and the surrounding political dynamics are crucial to global welfare and peace.

Somalia nears a turning point in the battle against terrorism

The paramount gain from this agreement, impacting the global community, is the revitalization of the Somali Navy with Turkish support. We are committed to developing a robust and independent Somali Naval Force with our Turkish friends' assistance. This effort will create a ripple effect, with the reinvigorated Somali navy poised to swiftly reclaim maritime sovereignty lost after the civil war. Somali seafarers, honed by the distinguished Turkish Navy known for its formidable presence, will root out illegal activities in Somali waters. Regaining maritime control is essential to resolving global issues such as unregulated fishing and piracy. Beyond these, re-establishing dominance over Somali waters is critical to dismantling terrorist group al-Shabaab uses these unchecked areas for logistical support. Every round of ammunition trafficked through these maritime routes is a threat to both Somalia and the international community, which we aim to eliminate.

The new isle of prosperity in the Horn of Africa

The pact opens avenues for enriching and diversifying the treasures of Somalia's Exclusive Economic Zone, a repository of priceless marine wealth. This initiative is set to fortify our nascent blue economy, revitalizing essential economic sectors, and uplifting the welfare of our nation and the broader Horn of Africa. Under this agreement, the path to resolving Somalia's persistent challenges and enhancing the prosperity of its people will be paved with the nation's own abundant natural resources, bolstered by Türkiye's invaluable support. The extraction and utilization of these bounties from our seas, which inspire our flag's hue, hinge on Türkiye's support in two pivotal respects. Firstly, the comprehensive security of the Somali Exclusive Economic Zone should be guaranteed with Turkish support and guidance. Secondly, the sophisticated technical expertise of Türkiye should lead the way in harvesting these resources. With determination of Somalis and Turkish support in security and technical expertise, the Somali economy is on the cusp of a renaissance.

This agreement serving the peace of the international community

Considering all factors, it is evident that the agreement signed extends beyond enhancing Somalia's security and welfare; it fundamentally strengthens regional and international peace. Crucially, this pact expedites the eradication of terrorist group al-Shabaab, the most potent offshoot of al-Qaeda, posing a grave threat not just to Somalia and neighboring countries, but to global stability as well. Thus, it is undeniable that the accord with Türkiye will be warmly welcomed by every stakeholder invested in Somalia's prosperity and the overarching safety of the global community.

* Opinions expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Anadolu