Türkiye’s Ambassador to Mogadishu Cemalettin Kani Torun spoke for the first time to Anadolu Agency in his office, emphasizing that “where there is no security, unfortunately, investment cannot happen; for security, the guns must fall silent. As Türkiye , we will do everything in our power to encourage a peaceful resolution and will engage in every possible diplomatic effort.”
Torun highlighted that without infrastructure, it is impossible for the country to develop: “We will undertake these infrastructure investments to enable the Somali people to stand on their own feet.”
He criticized the inefficiency of international aid delivery: “All UN staff are in Nairobi, and unfortunately, most of the aid from those Western countries goes to cover the expenses of UN staff in Nairobi, with very little reaching Somalia.”
Torun noted that Türkiye’s policy of delivering aid directly to the people ensures that donations aren’t lost to various intermediary costs: “This policy is the reason for Somalis’ affection and appreciation for Turkey.”
He stressed that both diplomatic efforts for peace and coordinated aid work are Türkiye’s dual mission in Somalia. Ambassador Torun personally hoisted the Turkish flag at the new embassy building.
(Anadolu Agency – Orhan Canbulatel)