Türkiye’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Hakan Fidan held a high-level meeting with Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President of the Federal Republic of Somalia, on the margins of the Doha Forum, diplomatic sources said.

The talks focused on strengthening bilateral relations between Türkiye and Somalia, with a particular emphasis on security cooperation, economic development, and humanitarian assistance. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding strategic partnership in areas such as infrastructure, defense training, energy, and trade.

According to officials familiar with the meeting, Minister Fidan reaffirmed Türkiye’s continued support for Somalia’s efforts to combat terrorism and stabilize the country, including ongoing training and capacity-building programs for Somali security forces. President Mohamud welcomed Türkiye’s role and described Ankara as a “reliable and long-term partner” in Somalia’s reconstruction process.

The two leaders also discussed expanding cooperation in maritime security and port management, as well as new investment opportunities for Turkish companies in Somalia’s energy, construction, and transportation sectors.

Following the talks, sources said both sides agreed to accelerate work on previously signed defense and economic cooperation agreements. Technical delegations from both countries are expected to meet in the coming weeks to finalize new joint projects, including development plans for ports, roads, and public service infrastructure in key Somali cities.

The meeting comes amid renewed international attention on the Horn of Africa’s security and economic challenges, with Türkiye continuing to play a growing diplomatic and operational role in Somalia.

Officials said further high-level visits are expected in the coming months as Ankara and Mogadishu work to deepen their strategic partnership. (ILKHA)