Harmony Over Discord: The Somalia- Türkiye Collaboration Amidst Arab Scrutiny 

Unwavering Somalia – Türkiye Partnership. 

The partnership between Somalia and provides a clear example of what a truly sustainable international alliance looks like. This partnership goes beyond geographical and cultural boundaries and is built on mutual respect, shared goals, and unwavering solidarity.  Against this backdrop, a recent session of the Arab Ministerial Committee deserves attention. Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry chaired the meeting, during which the Saudi Foreign Minister, Adel al-Jubeir, expressed concerns about what he referred to as  “Türkiye’s interference in Arab countries”.  This draws attention to the fact that international relations and diplomacy in the region operate on various levels. 

For the past thirty years, Somalia has faced anarchy, famine, and natural disasters.  Despite being in proximity and sharing a common cultural heritage with Somalia, Arab states in the region have been largely inactive. In contrast, the partnership between Somalia and Türkiye has flourished under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan providing substantial economic, social, and security-oriented support to Somalia. This partnership has resulted in more tangible progress than the combined efforts of Arab states in Somalia. 

Central to their alliance is the recent expansion of the defense cooperation agreement between Türkiye and Somalia, which now includes maritime security. These developments are of strategic importance given the rapidly changing dynamics of the Horn of Africa.  Initially focused on humanitarian aid, Türkiye’s alliance with Somalia has evolved into a strategic partnership. This includes significant Türkiye’s investments in Somalia’s infrastructure, as well as a major ammunition donation. Furthermore, the involvement of Türkiye companies in the management of Mogadishu port and airport has greatly contributed to Somalia’s economic recovery. 

Türkiye has consistently made efforts to support Somalia’s military development.  In addition to constructing a military base in Mogadishu, Türkiye has taken on the responsibility of training the Somali National Army and has successfully implemented an effective training program.  The primary motivation behind these efforts is to demonstrate Türkiye’s significance within NATO and its capability to handle any assigned missions, particularly in times of economic crisis. 

The maritime defense pact, which aims to enhance Somalia’s naval capabilities sheds light on the evolving political landscape in the Horn of Africa.  Additionally, it highlights Türkiye’s position as a prominent defense exporter, with a military-industrial complex that exports a significant portion of its production to 80 countries.  This agreement also has significant implications for regional peace, stability, and Türkiye’s economic interests in the area. 

In conclusion, the cooperation between Somalia and Türkiye serves as a clear reminder of the effectiveness of international collaboration in overcoming regional politics. This partnership is mutually beneficial, and the criticisms from some Arab leaders, largely driven by jealousy and misunderstanding, obscure their vision of the positive role that the alliance plays in Somalia’s progress and stability.   It is important to recognize and appreciate Türkiye’s positive role in Somalia and embrace the spirit of collaboration in addressing the challenges faced by the region.  This partnership also highlights the potential of international cooperation across geographical and cultural boundaries in tackling common global challenges. 

Abdi Jama,  

abdi.jama@gmail.com