Somalia, Turkey Sign Revised Defense Aid Deal to Boost Military Cooperation

GOOBJOOG NEWS | ISTANBUL: Somalia and Turkey have signed a revised defense cooperation protocol aimed at strengthening military support and strategic ties between the two countries.

The updated agreement, signed in Istanbul by Somalia’s Defense Minister Ahmed Ma’allin Fiqi and Turkish Defense Minister Yaşar Güler, amends a 2019 financial assistance pact to reflect growing collaboration in military training, equipment supply, and institutional capacity building for Somalia’s armed forces.

“This renewed protocol underscores the deep-rooted partnership between our nations,” said Minister Fiqi, adding that Somalia is committed to using Turkish support transparently to serve national security and stability goals.

The agreement is expected to streamline aid delivery and reinforce Somalia’s efforts to build a professional, self-reliant national army capable of responding to internal and regional security threats.

Turkey has played a critical role in Somalia’s post-conflict reconstruction, particularly in reforming its security sector. The revised deal expands cooperation into areas such as defense technology, joint military exercises, and long-term strategic planning.

The agreement reflects a shared commitment to peace in the Horn of Africa and strengthens Somalia’s capacity to safeguard its sovereignty while contributing to broader regional stability.