Somalia secures defense pact with Türkiye amid maritime dispute with Ethiopia

Somalia confirms 10 year military deal with Türkiye, to protect Somalia’s coastline and rebuild its naval forces

A comprehensive military deal with Türkiye was confirmed by Somalia’s cabinet and legislators on Wednesday, a momentous occasion for the Horn of Africa country amid rising tensions with Ethiopia over a maritime accord that Somalia claims violates its sovereignty.

Türkiye agrees to protect Somalia’s lengthy coastline and rebuild its naval might as part of the ten-year deal. At a press conference after a joint legislative meeting, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud stressed the agreement’s emphasis on economic cooperation and marine defense while clearly outlining its non-aggressive approach to neighboring countries.

In declaring a strong stand against challenges to its territorial integrity, President Mohamud emphasized the country’s determination to protect its maritime domain against any aggression or violation of its legitimate rights. Ethiopia’s contentious maritime agreement with Somaliland, a self-declared separate entity, has caused serious diplomatic problems since it affects Somalia’s territorial claims and sovereignty. 

Türkiye is the best ally for coastal defense, according to Deputy Defense Minister Abdifatah Kassim, who also emphasized the agreement’s strategic significance and reaffirmed Somalia’s unyielding attitude on sovereignty and territorial integrity.

NATO member Türkiye has a close relationship with Somalia in several areas, including military cooperation, building, health care, and education. The biggest military installation and training center outside of Türkiye is located in Somalia, which helps train over 5,000 security professionals in Somalia.

In preparation for the country’s departure of African Union peacekeeping soldiers by year’s end, Somalia is working with other countries to strengthen its military capabilities. Notwithstanding persistent military countermeasures and outside assistance, Somalia is still struggling to contain the insurgent organization Al-Shabaab, which is associated with Al-Qaeda.

As shown by its agreement with Somaliland to lease a section of its coast, perhaps for commercial and naval uses, the pact also addresses Ethiopia’s need for sea access. According to Ethiopia, the geopolitical forces in the area have heightened as it seeks to gain access to the sea after Eritrea’s independence in 1993.

Amidst challenges to marine security and instability in the region, particularly the activities of Houthi rebels supported by Iran, Somaliland’s aspiration for recognition and the strategic importance of the Gulf of Aden commerce route further compound the issue.

With Türkiye positioned as a vital defender against threats like piracy and territorial violations, the defense pact between Somalia and Türkiye reinforces Somalia’s position in the ongoing maritime dispute with Ethiopia. 

Source: AFP