Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mahmud emphasized the significance of Türkiye’s continued support to his country, stating, “Türkiye and Somalia are genuine partners grounded in mutual interest.” Speaking at the ADFTalks panel during the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, moderated by TRT World’s Alican Ayanlar, Mahmud discussed Somalia’s progress in state-building, counterterrorism, and regional diplomacy.
Mahmud acknowledged that Somalia had gone through a turbulent period but is now transitioning from a collapsed state to a fragile one. He noted that while Somali institutions are not yet fully mature, rapid progress has been made in recent years.
He stressed Somalia’s determination in combating terrorist groups such as Al-Shabaab and Daesh, with substantial support from the United Nations, African Union, the U.S., the UK, and notably, Türkiye. Despite international aid, Mahmud underlined that the fight against terrorism is led by Somalis themselves.
“There Is No Place for Terrorism in Somalia”
President Mahmud highlighted improvements in security, governance, education, and healthcare, particularly in areas cleared of terrorist presence. “People are getting the message: there is no place for terrorism in Somalia,” he stated. He also spoke about a stabilization program and job creation in these regions.
Mahmud praised Türkiye’s involvement in the Somali economy, especially its support in infrastructure, airports, and ports operated by Turkish companies. He underscored the importance of a long-term national transformation plan aiming for 2060.
Somali-Türkiye Cooperation in Energy and Security
Somalia is currently exploring its first oil and gas reserves—with Türkiye being the only country engaged at this stage. Mahmud described this as a testament to Türkiye’s long-term commitment, saying, “When other companies come in ten years, they will not match Türkiye’s dedication. Türkiye and Somalia are real partners built on mutual benefit.”
He also highlighted Türkiye’s pivotal role as a mediator in the Somali-Ethiopian talks, stating the “Ankara Declaration” was a result of Türkiye’s honest and impartial mediation. “A true mediator should not have interests other than peace. Türkiye has good relations with both Somalia and Ethiopia and has supported both in difficult times,” Mahmud said.
On Somaliland and the Palestinian Issue
Mahmud firmly reiterated that Somaliland is an integral part of Somalia, rejecting claims about possible relocation of Palestinians there. “Nobody has officially proposed such a plan. This is not a solution, and we will never see separating Palestinians from their homeland as viable,” he said.
He also reaffirmed Somalia’s unwavering stance on the Palestinian issue, calling it a “moral and religious responsibility,” and supporting a peaceful, two-state solution.
In closing, President Mahmud reiterated that Somalia is seeking peaceful and cooperative relations both regionally and globally. “We want to live in peace with our neighbors and the world,” he said.