Somali Prime Minister Hassan Ali Khaire expressed deep gratitude to Türkiye for its support following the recent terrorist attack in Mogadishu, saying, “We are grateful to the Turkish people. The people of Somalia will be forever thankful for the support you have given us.”
Speaking to Anadolu Agency during his first official visit to Turkey, Prime Minister Khaire reflected on the multidimensional relationship between the two countries and the outcomes of his meetings with Turkish officials.
He described his visit as highly productive and expressed appreciation for the warm welcome extended to him and his delegation. Discussions focused on counterterrorism, strengthening security in Somalia, and expanding bilateral cooperation.
“We Agreed on Strategic Cooperation in Key Areas”
Khaire stated that both sides reached a mutual understanding on strategic cooperation in several fields, including security, counterterrorism, economic development, infrastructure, and public services.
During his stay in Ankara, Khaire also visited Somalis who were injured in the October 14 Mogadishu bombing and are currently receiving treatment in Turkey. He thanked Turkey for coming to their aid at a critical time.
“We are grateful to the Turkish people,” Khaire emphasized. “The people of Somalia will always remain thankful for your support.” He added that while some of the injured are recovering well, others remain in critical condition, and he continues to pray for their recovery.
No Intelligence Linking Turkish Base to Attack
Responding to claims that the terrorist attack had targeted the Turkish military training center in Mogadishu, Khaire said there was no intelligence supporting that theory.
“Al-Shabaab targeted Somali civilians — children, parents, ordinary citizens — in one of the busiest areas of the city. Their aim was to kill as many Somalis as possible,” he stated, underlining that the attack was aimed at causing mass civilian casualties.
He also highlighted the role of the Turkish military training center in Mogadishu, saying, “This center is already contributing to the establishment of a national Somali army, and we are pleased with the progress made so far.”
Boosting Economic Cooperation and Investment
Economic cooperation was also high on the agenda during Khaire’s visit. He held meetings with representatives of the Turkish business community, encouraging them to invest more in Somalia.
“We also agreed on infrastructure projects that will create job opportunities in Somalia,” Khaire said. “I hope we will increase commercial activity in Somalia.”
Noting that Turkish contractors and investors have undertaken projects worth over $350 billion in more than 118 countries, he emphasized that only $75 million of that has been invested in Somalia so far.
Khaire expressed hope that this figure would increase significantly, given the strategic partnership agreed upon by the leaders of both countries.