Turkish footprint in East Africa under Greek scrutiny

Greek military expert Kampouridis analyzes Türkiye’s assertive expansion in East African geopolitics, stressing its growing defense, trade engagements

Türkiye’s growing influence in East Africa, especially its deepening ties with Somalia, has become a focal point in international relations, viewed through various lenses, including that of the Greek media.

Greek Lieutenant General Lazaros Kampouridis provides insight into these developments, offering a perspective on how these relations are viewed from Greece’s point of view based on his extensive military and diplomatic background.

According to Kampouridis, Türkiye’s foreign policy has been assertively expanding in East Africa. The most notable example is its engagement with Somalia.

A recent Türkiye-Somalia agreement includes the provision of maritime protection and the construction of a fleet, adding to Türkiye’s already significant military presence in Mogadishu.

This agreement also grants Türkiye access to 30% of the profits from hydrocarbon exports in the region for a decade.

Additionally, Türkiye has signed agreements with Djibouti, a key player in controlling the Red Sea. These involve training Djiboutian police and military forces and extend to infrastructure, education, health and trade.

Similar military and economic pacts have been established with Ethiopia and Kenya, signaling Türkiye’s approach to diplomacy in the region.

A crucial aspect of Türkiye’s African policy, as noted by Kampouridis, is its ballistic missile program. This includes a partnership with Pakistan for long-range ballistic missile production and the use of Somali territory for missile testing.

These developments indicate Türkiye’s intent to bolster its defense capabilities and extend its strategic reach.

From a Greek media perspective, these moves by Türkiye are seen as an effort not only to tap into Africa’s rich natural resources but also to position itself as a mediator in regional conflicts.

This strategy aims to increase Türkiye’s political, economic and military influence in East Africa.

Türkiye’s involvement in Africa, particularly in Somalia, aligns with its broader foreign policy objectives of expanding its global influence and demonstrating its capabilities as a regional power broker.

This involvement also aims to strengthen Türkiye’s position within NATO, especially in the wake of shifting alliances and global power dynamics.

As Greek media sees it, Türkiye’s growing relationships with African nations, particularly in East Africa, reflect a concerted effort to enhance its geopolitical influence, a development closely observed and analyzed by experienced military figures like Lieutenant General Lazaros Kampouridis.

Source: Newsroom