Somalia Moves to Safeguard Its Citizens as Turkey Tightens Residency Rules

GOOBJOOG NEWS | ANKARA: Somalia’s Ambassador to Turkey, Fathudin Ali Mohamed, has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Somali nationals living in Turkey, following rising concerns over residency and documentation challenges.

Speaking after a meeting with Turkish Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya, Ambassador Fathudin said the discussions focused on finding practical solutions to the difficulties faced by Somali citizens seeking to renew residence permits or regularize their legal status.

“We held constructive talks on ways to simplify residency processes and safeguard the dignity of Somali nationals living in Turkey,” the ambassador said. “Our priority is to ensure that Somalis abroad are treated fairly and in accordance with Turkish law.”

Fathudin emphasized that Somalia values its long-standing partnership with Turkey, describing cooperation between the two nations as vital for both citizens’ welfare and Somalia’s broader diplomatic goals. He thanked the Turkish government for its continued support in education, health, and community development.

“The strength of our people abroad reflects the strength of our nation,” he said, noting that protecting Somali citizens overseas is part of Somalia’s wider effort to strengthen its global image and diplomatic influence.

The ambassador’s remarks come amid growing reports of Somali nationals facing deportation or legal uncertainty due to tighter residency regulations in Turkey, The Somali Embassy in Ankara has pledged to remain actively engaged with Turkish authorities to ensure Somali citizens’ rights are upheld and that bilateral ties continue to deepen.