Ankara (Anadolu Agency) – Hasan Tosun – Somali Minister of Interior Abdulkarim Hussein Guled described Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s visit to Somalia as a turning point in the country’s history, saying it opened the door to critical humanitarian aid. “That’s why we call Erdoğan the conqueror of Somalia. He has won the hearts of Somalia and its people,” Guled stated.
Speaking during his official visit to Ankara, Guled evaluated Türkiye’s aid to Somalia, the military coup in Egypt, and bilateral relations between Türkiye and Somalia in an interview with Anadolu Agency.
Guled noted that while Somalia still bears the scars of hunger, the situation has improved significantly compared to previous years. “Two years ago, around 100 people were dying every day due to famine. Thanks to Türkiye and other countries, conditions are steadily improving,” he said.
Emphasizing the need for increased support in the face of famine and terrorism, Guled added, “Türkiye is the country that has provided the most aid to Somalia. Other countries are helping as well, but Türkiye leads in support. On behalf of the Somali people, I sincerely thank Türkiye and its people. These generous efforts reflect the strong brotherhood between our nations.”
Guled stressed that Prime Minister Erdoğan’s historic visit paved the way for international assistance and created a new chapter in Somalia’s recovery. “Erdoğan’s visit and Türkiye’s support have opened a new era in Somalia,” he said.
“Egypt Must Return to Legitimate Democracy”
Commenting on the military coup in Egypt, Guled expressed concern over the developments. He emphasized the importance of respecting democratic choices and peaceful processes. “We support democracy, the will of the people, and non-violent methods. We oppose coups and chaos. We hope Egypt returns to a government based on democratic legitimacy,” he stated.
Cooperation Against Al-Shabab
Guled said Türkiye–Somalia relations are strengthening with each passing day and noted that the two countries have signed several agreements, particularly in the field of security.
“Türkiye is already training Somali police officers, and soon it will train 500 Somali military officers. This is a major step in strengthening Somalia’s security forces,” he explained.
Guled acknowledged that although rebuilding Somalia’s security institutions is not easy after 22 years of state collapse, notable progress has been made. “Somalia is becoming a stronger nation each day. Somali forces are preparing to take full control of national security,” he said, adding that the African Union forces are expected to withdraw soon.
He also noted that many areas previously held by the Al-Shabab militant group have been recaptured due to determined efforts, and the threat posed by the group is diminishing. Internal divisions have also weakened the group, Guled said, adding, “The security situation in Somalia continues to improve.”
He criticized Al-Shabab’s continued violence during the holy month of Ramadan, emphasizing that the group shows no regard for peace or mercy. Guled concluded by saying that piracy incidents have also significantly declined due to government efforts and international cooperation.