Somali, Turkish Army Chiefs Discuss Military Cooperation

GOOBJOOG NEWS | ANKARA: The land forces chiefs of Somalia and Turkey have held talks in Ankara on strengthening military cooperation and enhancing the capabilities of the Somali National Army.

Somali Land Forces Commander Major General Sahal Abdullahi met his Turkish counterpart, General Metin Tokel, to discuss closer ties between the two militaries and support for developing Somalia’s ground forces.

During the meeting, Abdullahi thanked the Turkish government and military for their continued support to Somalia’s armed forces and people.

He specifically acknowledged Turkey’s role in training and equipping Somali troops, including the elite Gorgor commandos, who are among the units receiving specialised military training.

The Somali delegation also attended a drone piloting competition in Ankara, which included participants from the Somali National Army.

Turkey has been a key security partner of Somalia, providing military training and equipment as Mogadishu continues efforts to strengthen its armed forces and combat the Al-Shabaab militant group.

The meeting highlights ongoing defence cooperation between the two countries, although details of any new agreements or specific commitments arising from the talks were not provided.