Türkiye’s Ambassador to Mogadishu, Olgan Bekar, emphasized that Türkiye has never engaged in competition with any international actor in Somalia. “We have never had such an effort. Türkiye has gained the genuine love and trust of the Somali people since 2011, and it holds a special place in Somalia,” he stated.
Speaking in Ankara during the 10th Ambassadors Conference, Ambassador Bekar assessed Türkiye–Somalia relations and the activities of Turkish institutions in the country.
Support for Somalia’s Security and Training
Bekar recalled that Türkiye established a military training facility in Somalia last year to support security restoration following decades of civil war. The center runs three programs: a two-year officer training, one-year non-commissioned officer training, and basic soldier training. The first graduation ceremony for non-commissioned officers took place on August 7.
He also noted that police training programs have started, including the formation of a special operations unit.
On AMISOM and Security Transition
Commenting on the ongoing discussions regarding the gradual withdrawal of African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM) forces, Bekar said, “Given current conditions in Somalia, it is widely agreed that reducing troop numbers is not yet feasible. AMISOM will continue its presence for some time.”
He added that Somalia’s current security institutions are not yet ready to fully assume AMISOM’s responsibilities.
Türkiye’s Role in Somaliland Mediation
Bekar highlighted Türkiye’s efforts in mediating between the Federal Government of Somalia and the autonomous region of Somaliland since 2013. While noting that progress has slowed due to recent political developments and elections, he expressed hope for the resumption of talks in the near future.
Positive Impact of Ethiopia-Eritrea Peace Agreement
Referring to the peace agreement between Ethiopia and Eritrea, Bekar noted its positive influence on Somalia. He recalled that Somali President Mohamed Abdullahi Farmaajo visited Eritrea and that Eritrea’s foreign minister later visited Somalia. “We support the normalization of Somali–Eritrean ties. It’s a positive development for the region,” he said.
TİKA’s Expanding Projects in Somalia
Ambassador Bekar detailed several ongoing projects led by the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA), including the integration and cleanup of two river irrigation systems. Türkiye is also constructing a temporary parliament building in Mogadishu, which will be completed by the end of the year. Construction of the main parliament building is set to begin in 2019.
“Somalia is one of the top countries where TİKA has carried out the highest number of projects globally,” Bekar said.
Türkiye’s Unique Position in Somalia
Stressing Somalia’s fragility and the need to build everything from scratch, Bekar said Türkiye has played a vital role in the country’s recovery. While acknowledging that other countries also contribute, he emphasized:
“We have never been in competition with any actor in Somalia. That’s not our approach. Türkiye is not to be compared with others—our sole aim is to support the Somali people, implement tangible projects, and help them reclaim a dignified life after the hardships they’ve endured since 1991.”
Avoiding Harmful Foreign Interference
Ambassador Bekar concluded by warning against foreign policies that could disrupt Somalia’s internal balance:
“We do not want any actor directly interfering in Somalia’s internal affairs. Constructive roles are welcome, but destabilizing policies would only harm the Somali people. This is a view shared by many stakeholders in the country.”