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Somali President Meets with Erdogan in Istanbul

Published December 30, 2025, 11:13
Somali President Meets with Erdogan in Istanbul

The President of Somalia, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, visited Istanbul for talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The meeting takes place amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Horn of Africa, with Turkey reinforcing its role as a mediator, security partner, and economic ally to Somalia. The visit follows Israel's recent recognition of Somaliland, a move expected to be discussed by the two leaders, with the possibility of Erdogan expressing his criticism. Turkey's involvement in Somalia dates back to 2011, when Ankara provided significant humanitarian aid during a devastating famine, exceeding $1 billion. Since then, cooperation has expanded into various sectors, including the management of Mogadishu's airport and port, the establishment of Turkey's largest embassy in Somalia, and the signing of defense and energy agreements, including the protection of Somali waters. Turkey has strengthened its presence in the region, conducting seismic surveys accompanied by Turkish warships, highlighting its role as a security guarantor in the unstable area. The Erdogan-Mohamud meeting is expected to further deepen this relationship and discuss ways to address the challenges in the region.