Friday 13, June ,2025  {HMC} Senior officials from the Federal Government of Somalia and the Republic of Turkey convened a crucial meeting today during the ongoing Oslo Forum, re-emphasizing their mutual commitment to a robust strategic partnership.

The discussions, which primarily focused on bolstering cooperation in the vital sectors of security and trade, highlighted Turkey’s enduring and significant role in Somalia’s journey towards lasting peace, stability, and comprehensive development.

The high-level engagement brought together Mr. Hussein Maalim, Somalia’s National Security Advisor, and Dr. Burhanettin Duran, the Deputy Foreign Minister of the Republic of Turkey.

Their meeting on the sidelines of the prestigious Oslo Forum provided a valuable opportunity for both nations to consult on pressing bilateral and regional issues, reinforcing the strong bonds that have characterized their relationship for years.

A central theme of their discussions was the imperative to further strengthen the strategic partnership between Somalia and Turkey, with particular attention given to security cooperation.

This collaboration is crucial as Somalia continues its efforts to consolidate peace and enhance its national security capabilities.

Parallel to security, discussions also delved into expanding trade relations, exploring new avenues for economic cooperation that can foster mutual prosperity and contribute to Somalia’s economic revitalization.

Both high-ranking officials took the opportunity to reaffirm the paramount importance of Turkey’s sustained role in Somalia’s ongoing reconstruction and development.

Turkey has been a consistent and visible partner in Somalia, providing critical support across a wide spectrum of areas, from humanitarian aid and infrastructure development to capacity building and direct investments.

This continued engagement is highly valued by the Somali government and its people, recognizing Turkey’s contributions to stability and progress within the Horn of Africa nation.

The meeting at the Oslo Forum serves as a clear indication of the deep and evolving nature of the Somalia-Turkey alliance.

Such high-level diplomatic exchanges are fundamental in translating shared objectives into tangible actions, ensuring that the strategic cooperation between the two countries continues to effectively contribute to Somalia’s national priorities and its long-term aspirations for peace and economic growth.

The discussions in Oslo underscore a mutual dedication to advancing collective interests and fostering a secure and prosperous future.

Friday 13, June ,2025  {HMC} The Foreign Ministers of Somalia and China held a significant high-level meeting in Changsha, Hunan Province, today, on the sidelines of the 4th China-Africa Trade and Economic Exhibition and the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Coordinators’ Ministerial Conference.

This pivotal engagement reaffirmed the deep-rooted friendship and commitment to strengthening strategic cooperation between the two nations, arriving as they celebrate the 65th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.

Somalia holds the distinction of being the first East African nation to establish formal ties with the People’s Republic of China in 1960.

During the extensive discussions, both sides reiterated their mutual respect and shared vision for a robust bilateral partnership.

Somali Foreign Minister Abdisalan Abdi Ali (Dhaay) conveyed profound gratitude for China’s steadfast support, particularly acknowledging the invaluable assistance provided to Somalia during its challenging periods.

Minister Dhaay articulated Somalia’s keen interest in expanding the scope of their cooperation, highlighting key areas of focus.

These include a strong emphasis on enhancing trade cooperation, actively marketing Somali products to the vast Chinese market, developing crucial economic infrastructure within Somalia, and investing substantially in human capacity building and digital services, essential for Somalia’s ongoing reconstruction and modernization.

In response, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi warmly commended Somalia’s consistent support for China’s re-engagement with the international community decades ago.

Minister Wang reaffirmed China’s unwavering commitment to its long-standing relationship with Somalia, pledging full cooperation in the effective implementation of FOCAC projects.

He stressed China’s focus on achieving tangible outcomes from these initiatives, emphasizing that the goal is to directly improve the lives and livelihoods of the Somali people.

This commitment highlights China’s dedication to delivering practical benefits through its partnerships.

The meeting served as a powerful platform for both diplomatic chiefs to express a shared aspiration for a future of deepened collaboration.

The discussions reflected a mutual understanding of each other’s national interests and a collective will to work together on regional and international issues.

The enduring friendship, cultivated over more than six decades, continues to evolve, adapting to contemporary global challenges and opportunities.

This high-level diplomatic encounter in Changsha represents a crucial step in cementing the strategic alliance between Somalia and China.

Such engagements are vital for translating diplomatic goodwill into concrete projects that contribute to Somalia’s economic recovery, social development, and its reintegration into the global economic framework, all within the comprehensive ambit of China-Africa cooperation.

Friday 13, June ,2025  {HMC} The National Independent Electoral Commission (NIEC) of Somalia recently concluded a significant visit to Ankara, where its delegation engaged in comprehensive discussions with the Supreme Election Council of Turkey. The high-level meeting focused on strengthening Somalia’s electoral infrastructure and drawing valuable lessons from Turkey’s established democratic processes.

During the productive exchange, representatives from both electoral bodies delved into detailed discussions concerning their respective organizational structures and operational frameworks. A key area of focus was the intricate process of voter registration, a critical component for ensuring credible and inclusive elections. The Somali delegation was particularly keen to understand Turkey’s successful methodology for enabling its large diaspora population to participate effectively in national elections, a model that could offer significant insights for future Somali polls.

A pivotal outcome of the discussions was a mutual agreement on robust collaboration between the two commissions. Turkey has committed to providing substantial support to Somalia’s NIEC, including technological assistance and specialized training programs designed to enhance the capabilities and expertise of Somali electoral personnel. This technical cooperation is expected to play a crucial role in modernizing Somalia’s election management systems and bolstering the overall integrity of its electoral processes.

In addition to their engagements with the Supreme Election Council, the Somali commission also held important meetings with key officials from the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. These included the Director-General of the Ministry and the Director of the Africa Department. During these sessions, the Somali delegation received comprehensive briefings on various aspects of voter registration strategies and Turkey’s overarching election planning mechanisms.

This visit to Turkey signifies a strategic move by Somalia’s National Independent Electoral Commission to leverage international expertise in its ongoing efforts to prepare for forthcoming elections. The collaboration with Turkey’s Supreme Election Council is anticipated to be instrumental in building a more robust, transparent, and inclusive electoral system in Somalia, ultimately contributing to the nation’s democratic development.

Friday 13, June ,2025  {HMC} Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud on Thursday visited the Turkish seismic exploration vessel Oruc Reis at the Port of Mogadishu, marking the official completion of an extensive oil exploration mission off the coast of Somalia.

During the inspection tour, President Mohamud commended the efforts of Turkish partners and all stakeholders involved in the months-long survey, expressing optimism that the results will pave the way for transformative economic development in Somalia.

“This is an important milestone that supports our vision of utilizing Somalia’s natural resources to generate economic opportunities and advance social progress,” President Mohamud stated. He praised Turkey’s steadfast partnership, saying, “The Turkish government and people have consistently demonstrated that Somalia is a viable investment destination.”
The President emphasized his administration’s commitment to revitalizing Somalia’s economy by harnessing its abundant natural resources. While oil remains a central focus, he noted that Somalia’s broader resource base holds the potential to address critical national challenges and promote long-term stability.

The Oruc Reis, a Turkish seismic survey vessel, arrived in Mogadishu in October 2024 to begin three-dimensional seismic studies in Somali waters. Over the course of six to seven months, the vessel collected geological data to help determine viable oil and gas reserves along Somalia’s coastline. The data will be analyzed in Ankara to identify potential drilling locations.

The President’s high-profile visit to the vessel underscores the strategic importance his administration places on unlocking Somalia’s natural resource potential. The findings from the exploration are expected to play a crucial role in shaping Somalia’s energy future and deepening cooperation with Türkiye.

President Mohamud’s remarks also reaffirmed Somalia’s commitment to sovereign economic development through international partnerships based on mutual benefit and respect.

Oruc Reis, which is scheduled to depart from Mogadishu Port on June 15 to return to Türkiye, is expected to be ready for its next mission by August.