Ankara (Anadolu Agency) – By Fatih Erel — Somalia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs Mohamed Nur Ga’al expressed appreciation for Türkiye’s mediation between Somalia and Somaliland, emphasizing his government’s commitment to national unity.
“The Somali government is dedicated to keeping the Somali people united and will do whatever it takes to achieve that,” Ga’al said in an interview with Anadolu Agency in Ankara. “We are especially grateful to the Turkish government for facilitating talks between Somalia and Somaliland.”
Third Round of Talks to Be Held in Türkiye in November
Ga’al noted that two previous rounds of dialogue between Somalia and Somaliland have already taken place in Türkiye. The third round is scheduled for November.
“We hope the Turkish government will continue its efforts to support a united Somalia,” he said. “We also encourage Somaliland to recognize that unity, stability, and prosperity are in the best interest of all Somalis. We are hopeful that this next round of talks will yield a lasting solution.”
Rebuilding Somalia’s Economy
Commenting on Somalia’s economic challenges, Ga’al said, “Somalia went through a 22-year civil war that destroyed nearly all sectors of the economy. But we are now actively discussing how to redevelop and reconstruct it.”
“Somalia will rise again — stronger — with the help of friends like Türkiye,” he added.
Ga’al emphasized that Somalia does not want to rely permanently on foreign assistance: “We want to build an economy that supports a sustainable livelihood for all Somalis. We have many untapped natural resources, and with the right policies, we can become self-sufficient.”
“Somali Government Controls the Entire Country Except Two Small Cities”
Ga’al noted the progress made in security, saying, “Back on August 19, 2011, parts of Mogadishu were still under the control of the terrorist group al-Shabaab. Today, the Somali government controls the entire country, except for two small cities.”
“With the continued help of our Turkish brothers and other allies, we will defeat al-Shabaab and bring lasting stability and security to Somalia, God willing,” he stated.
Focus Needed on Newly Liberated Areas
Reflecting on Türkiye’s humanitarian support during Somalia’s 2011 famine, Ga’al said, “Turkish aid was a lifesaver during one of our darkest moments. We are thankful to both the Turkish government and the Turkish people for their tireless support.”
He emphasized that current humanitarian needs are concentrated in areas recently liberated from al-Shabaab. “These are the regions that need urgent attention now, and we encourage all humanitarian organizations to focus their efforts there,” he said.
Aid Requested for Upcoming Religious Holiday
Ga’al also highlighted Türkiye’s contributions during religious holidays such as the Feast of Sacrifice (Eid al-Adha). “The Somali people have received essential aid from Türkiye during past holidays, and we’re continuing to receive support where it is most needed.”
“We are especially grateful to the Turkish people for their generous donations during these religious celebrations,” Ga’al concluded.