The forum titled “Türkiye–Somalia Partnership: Moving Forward” kicked off at Wish More Hotel in Istanbul, organized by the East Africa Scientific Research and Development Association (DAD).
Speaking at the opening session, Somali Minister of Planning, Economy, and Development, Jamal Mohamed Hassan, expressed his pleasure in being in Türkiye and participating in such an event. He stated that the forum aimed to bring together businesspeople, NGOs, academics, and policymakers to foster greater cooperation between the two nations.
Highlighting the importance of mutual cooperation, Minister Hassan said:
“Türkiye’s engagement with Somalia began in 2011 during the famine, initially through civil society organizations. The visit of then-Prime Minister and current President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan marked a turning point and significantly deepened our bilateral ties. We are deeply grateful. That visit built a close friendship and partnership between our two nations.”
He emphasized that Türkiye’s approach to aid has been different from many other countries, adding:
“Türkiye has increased its contributions to Somalia in the fields of education, scholarships, employment opportunities, and security. We have joint investments and projects. Our cooperation is based on partnership, and we are strengthening it, particularly in energy and trade.”
“Somalia Has Huge Investment Potential”
Calling on Turkish investors, Minister Hassan highlighted promising sectors:
“Those who do business in Somalia will find it highly profitable. Agriculture, maritime products, energy, insurance, transportation, and construction are sectors with immense potential. We are directing investors and financiers toward these opportunities, which will, in turn, strengthen the socio-economic fabric of Somalia. We are actively removing barriers to private investment. Our strategy is clear, and Somalia offers incredible potential.”
He added that Türkiye has not only contributed to Somalia militarily but has also made strategic investments to support growth:
“We are open to continuous cooperation and welcome both public and private investors.”
“Thousands of Somalis Educated in Türkiye Will Strengthen Bilateral Ties”
DAD President Prof. Dr. Ali Abubakar emphasized that the organization collaborates with various institutions worldwide and in Türkiye works closely with the Foundation for Political, Economic and Social Research (SETA).
Praising Türkiye’s policy toward Somalia, Prof. Abubakar stated:
“Since 2011, Türkiye and Somalia have maintained strong cooperation. Türkiye has helped thousands of Somali students come here for education. Once they return to their homeland, they will contribute to its development and further deepen Türkiye–Somalia relations. And it’s not just Somali students—those from other East African nations studying in Türkiye will also elevate Türkiye–East Africa relations when they return.”
Forum Topics and Participation
The two-day forum brought together business leaders, academics, and officials from both Türkiye and Somalia. Discussions were held on key themes such as:
- Foundations of Turkish–African Relations
- Areas of Cooperation for Educational Partnerships
- Partnerships in Development and Creating Sustainable Impact
- Future Perspectives in Türkiye–Somalia Relations
Experts and stakeholders from both countries shared their insights, aiming to build long-term, sustainable cooperation between Türkiye and the East African region.