Turkish President, Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, has submitted a formal request to the Turkish parliament on Saturday, which is aimed at extending the presence of Turkish troops that are operational in Somalia for two more years, which is contingent upon the defense cooperation agreements signed between the two countries. According to the request submitted to the Turkish parliament, it was explicitly stated that the security and the stability of Somalia are crucial for the peace in the region. Meanwhile, the extension of Turkish Security forces presence in Somalia paves the way for the troops to continue the support they provide to Somalia in the areas of the fight against terrorism, and thwart security threats.
Since 2011, the Turkish government has forged close diplomatic ties with the Somali Federal Government while bolstering its cooperation in the areas of politics, economy, social, and security. As stated in the request, Turkey will continue to provide high quality military training to Somali security forces in the area of consultation services and technical support in accordance with agreements signed between the two countries, particularly in military training, technical cooperation, defense industry and financial support of the Somali armed forces. According to the request, it was pointed out that although Somali security forces have adequate personnel and equipment, financial woes affect its operational capabilities.
In the request, the Somali Federal Government has appealed to the Turkish government to continue its support, particularly in the areas of military in accordance with the economic and defense agreements signed between the two countries. It is clearly stated that the support will play a significant role in combating terrorism, piracy, illegal fishing, smuggling of people and other security threats.
Meanwhile, the request was in reference to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution, which was passed on December 1, 2023 while the Turkish government believes that its support will play a crucial role in Somalia’s stability in the long run, and strengthens the country’s capability in the protection of its resources and develop defense and security agencies in Somalia. Additionally, it was revealed that the cooperation plays a vital role in maintaining the security of sea routes which is crucial for the trade and Turkish ships, and consolidates the ongoing efforts in the fight against terrorism, piracy, and armed attacks that take place in the Gulf of Aden.
If the Turkish parliament approves this request based on Article 92 of Turkish constitution, it will extend its security personnel presence in Somalia for two years. The agreement which allows Turkish troops presence in Somalia is due to expire on July 27, 2026. The extension will allow Turkish troops to continue their operations in areas where the two countries have already agreed upon including Somalia’s territorial waters, and will operate under the orders of Turkish President in accordance with international law and United Nations Security Council resolution.
