The Federal Parliament of Somalia has ratified a historic agreement between the Somali government and the Turkish government, which covers various aspects of defense and economic cooperation.
The agreement was signed by the defense ministers of both countries in Ankara on February 8, 2024. It aims to enhance bilateral relations and the stability of the region, as well as to combat terrorism and illegal fishing in Somali waters.
The agreement was approved by 213 out of 216 members of the two Houses of the Federal Parliament, who attended the meeting chaired by the Speaker of the People’s Assembly, Sheikh Adan Mohamed Nur Madobe.
The agreement comes at a time of heightened tension between the Federal Government of Somalia and Ethiopia, following a provisional agreement between the regional administration of Somaliland and Ethiopia, which the Federal Government of Somalia has rejected, viewing it as an attempt by Ethiopia to divide Somalia.
The agreement is expected to boost Somalia’s efforts to assert its economic and political independence, with the support of its international partners. It also represents a significant step towards strengthening the relationship and cooperation between Somalia and Turkey, especially in the areas of maritime security and defense.