-The author is State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Federal Republic of Somalia

ISTANBUL

When the Somali people reflect on their journey of recovery, one truth stands above all: Türkiye has been with Somalia through every chapter of its struggle and renewal. From the darkest days of the humanitarian crisis to the ongoing work of state-building and development, Türkiye has never wavered in its commitment. It is no exaggeration to say that Somalia’s path back from total collapse would have been unthinkable without Türkiye's brotherly support.

What makes this partnership remarkable is not only its scope, humanitarian, development, security, and now economic, but also the depth of trust and solidarity that underpins it. This is not a relationship confined to diplomatic corridors. It is a people-to-people bond, visible daily on the streets of Mogadishu, where Turkish-built hospitals treat patients, Turkish teachers educate Somali youth, and Turkish engineers transform infrastructure once left in ruins.

A turning point in 2011

The defining moment came in August 2011, when then–Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan made his historic visit to Mogadishu at the height of famine. At a time when Somalia was gripped by despair and largely abandoned by the international community, Türkiye's leadership showed the world that Somalia was not forgotten. This watershed moment mobilized global attention and marked the beginning of Somalia’s renewed trajectory of recovery.

Türkiye did not stop at humanitarian assistance. Roads, ports, schools, and hospitals soon followed, built with Turkish expertise and commitment. Each project was more than an investment in infrastructure; it was a statement of faith in Somalia’s future.

Security and stability: A shared effort

From humanitarian relief, cooperation expanded into the field of security, a long, complex, but necessary undertaking. Türkiye has trained Somali forces, provided critical equipment, and supported the building of capable national institutions. These efforts are helping Somalia to reclaim stability step by step.

Mogadishu is now safer than it was a decade ago. The path has not been without setbacks, but Türkiye’s role has ensured that progress is never lost. In the eyes of many Somalis, Türkiye is not only a partner in development but also a guarantor of hope in the fight against terrorism and instability.

Somalia and the "Africa Opening"

Türkiye’s support for Somalia cannot be separated from its broader Africa Opening, a visionary foreign policy that has deepened Ankara’s engagement across the continent. In just two decades, Türkiye has transformed from a distant partner to one of Africa’s most visible, respected, and trusted friends.

Embassies have multiplied, trade has expanded, and Turkish Airlines has connected African capitals to Istanbul, turning Türkiye into a bridge between continents. Somalia has been proud to serve as a central pillar of this strategy. Hosting Türkiye’s largest overseas embassy is both symbolic and practical: it reflects not only the depth of our relationship but also Türkiye’s commitment to long-term engagement in Africa.

Somalia sees itself as Türkiye’s gateway to East Africa, just as Türkiye serves as Somalia’s bridge to Europe and Asia. Together, we are proving that genuine South–South partnerships can deliver results that go beyond aid, creating sustainable growth, jobs, and opportunity.

Facing shared regional challenges

The Horn of Africa remains a volatile neighborhood. Conflicts in Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen, and the Democratic Republic of Congo threaten to destabilize the wider region. Of particular concern is the risk of renewed hostilities between Ethiopia and Eritrea, a conflict that would have far-reaching implications for the entire Horn.

In this environment, the Somalia–Türkiye partnership is more vital than ever. It is a stabilizing force not only for Somalia’s security but for regional balance. Ankara’s credibility as a mediator and trusted partner gives our cooperation a weight that extends beyond bilateral ties.

A future built on economic opportunity

The next chapter of our relationship must focus on economic transformation. Somalia is blessed with fertile agricultural land, abundant livestock, the longest coastline in Africa with rich fisheries, and maritime routes that connect Africa to the Middle East and Asia.

With Türkiye’s advanced industries, entrepreneurial dynamism, and global networks, the opportunities for joint trade and investment are immense. Somalia is not merely a recipient of aid; it is a partner eager to grow alongside Türkiye.

Together, we can:

• Develop agricultural and fisheries industries to feed not only Somalia but the wider region,
• Expand renewable energy projects to power cities and rural communities alike,
• Build logistics and trade hubs that connect Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

Recent milestones underscore this shift: the petroleum survey completed by Türkiye’s Oruç Reis research vessel, the new fishing agreement, and even plans for a Turkish space launch facility in Somalia. These ambitious projects mark a new frontier in Somalia–Türkiye relations, transforming them into a truly strategic alliance.

A partnership without parallel

In a world where alliances often shift with political winds, the Somalia–Türkiye relationship stands out as one built on brotherhood, sacrifice, and genuine solidarity. It is a partnership that has saved lives, restored hope, and now carries the promise of prosperity for generations to come.

As Somalia looks ahead, we remain determined to walk side by side with Türkiye, not only as allies, but as family. Together, we can demonstrate to the world that when nations stand shoulder to shoulder in hardship, they can also thrive together in opportunity.

The story of Somalia and Türkiye is not just about two countries. It is about what is possible when nations believe in each other, invest in each other, and grow together. That is the spirit of brotherhood, and that is the future we are building.

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