Somali Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur emphasized that Türkiye’s support is recognized as a bipartisan issue in Somalia, describing it as one of the country’s most crucial pillars in its pursuit of peace and security.
Speaking to Anadolu Agency during his visit to the Azerbaijani capital Baku for the 5th Azerbaijan International Defense Exhibition (ADEX 2024), Minister Nur expressed deep appreciation for the hospitality shown by Azerbaijani officials and citizens, stating that he felt at home despite visiting for the first time.
“Türkiye and Somalia Share Deep Historical Ties”
Having served in Türkiye for several years, Nur said:
“Considering the deep-rooted ties between Turkish and Somali people, I see the Turkish people as my own brothers. Naturally, we see the Azerbaijani people—brothers of our Turkish brothers—in the same light.”
He noted that ADEX provided an opportunity to closely examine cutting-edge defense technologies and praised the rapid development of Azerbaijan’s defense sector, especially in indigenous weapons and UAVs. Nur also praised Turkish defense companies for their high-quality domestic products, saying the technologies on display offered great potential for strengthening Somalia’s defense capabilities.
Bilateral Cooperation with Azerbaijan
Nur held a productive meeting with Azerbaijani Defense Minister Zakir Hasanov and congratulated him on Azerbaijan’s historic victory in the Second Karabakh War.
“Azerbaijan’s victory is not only a restoration of territorial integrity but a powerful symbol of legal justice, national dignity, and resilience,” he remarked.
He expressed Somalia’s interest in benefiting from Azerbaijan’s defense experience, particularly in counterterrorism.
“We have intensified our fight against terrorist organizations like al-Shabaab over the past two years. Drawing from Azerbaijan’s battlefield experience will strengthen our capacity.”
Expanding Ties Beyond Defense
Minister Nur also highlighted the importance of extending cooperation beyond defense, into sectors such as energy, agriculture, infrastructure, and trade.
He expressed interest in leveraging Azerbaijan’s energy sector expertise to help develop Somalia’s natural resources and facilitate Somali exports to Azerbaijani markets.
Somalia’s UN Security Council Membership: “A Diplomatic Milestone”
Nur described Somalia’s election to the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for 2025–2026 as a significant diplomatic achievement:
“This opportunity will enhance our global visibility and give us a voice in international peace and security matters. Our experience in rebuilding from civil war and fighting terrorism can contribute meaningfully to global solutions.”
He added that Somalia intends to support friendly nations like Azerbaijan during its UNSC term.
Türkiye: A Strategic Partner in Somalia’s Reconstruction
Minister Nur highlighted his fruitful meeting with Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler at ADEX, reaffirming Türkiye’s deep strategic role in Somalia’s recovery.
“Following President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s historic 2011 visit to Somalia, relations have reached a highly strategic level, particularly in defense. Türkiye has been instrumental in rebuilding Somalia’s armed forces and supporting security sector reforms.”
Nur praised the Defense and Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement signed with Türkiye, describing it as a cornerstone of Somalia’s national security.
“Türkiye’s support transcends politics in Somalia. It is essential for our development and a vital pillar of our peace and security efforts.”
He concluded by stating that Türkiye’s support is not only critical to Somalia but contributes to peace and stability across the Horn of Africa.
“Türkiye’s commitment makes us stronger in our struggle and helps secure the entire region.”