The agreement between Somalia and Turkey regarding the protection of Somali coasts by the Turkish navy was recently the subject of a televised address by Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamoud. This ten-year agreement includes training and equipping the Somali navy by Turkey, in exchange for access to resources in the Somali maritime economic zone.
This maritime collaboration raises questions, particularly after the signing of a treaty between Ethiopia and Somaliland, offering Ethiopia access to the sea in exchange for its recognition. This situation has caused tensions, particularly with the negative reaction from the Arab-Muslim world.
Despite regional tensions, President Mohamoud assured that the agreement with Turkey is not intended to provoke Ethiopia. He highlights the strategic importance of this partnership with Turkey, NATO’s second military power. According to Jason Mosley, a researcher at the Rift Valley Institute, although the effects are not immediate, this partnership has significant symbolic value for the Somali navy.
This cooperation is not new, the Turkish navy has already been patrolling the Gulf of Aden for fourteen years. Additionally, Mogadishu is home to Turkom, Turkey’s largest overseas military base. This strengthened relationship between Turkey and Somalia could have a major impact on maritime activities in the region, providing a new strategic dimension to security and stability in the Red Sea.
Finally, this agreement highlights the growing importance of regional partnerships to ensure maritime security and strengthen the operational capabilities of local forces. It also highlights the key role played by Turkey as a key player in international maritime cooperation, providing opportunities for development and capacity building in strategic regions around the world.