Turkey’s Ambassador to Somalia Alper Aktaş has concluded his diplomatic mission in the country, using his farewell message to emphasize the special relationship between Ankara and Mogadishu and the importance Turkey places on its partnership with Somalia.
In his parting remarks, the ambassador described Somalia as a nation with which Turkey shares a common destiny, underscoring the close political and historical ties that have developed between the two countries over the past decade.
“Somalia is a country with which we share a common destiny, and it holds a special place in the heart and policy of our nation,” the ambassador said while reflecting on his time as Turkey’s representative in Somalia.
His comments come at a time when relations between Somalia and Turkey have expanded significantly across multiple sectors, including security, defense, trade, education, healthcare, and infrastructure development.
Over the years, Turkey has become one of Somalia’s most prominent international partners.
Ankara has supported the Somali government through a range of development projects and cooperation agreements, particularly in the areas of state-building, security sector reform, and economic development.
Turkey has financed and implemented major infrastructure, health, and education projects in Somalia, while also playing a key role in strengthening the country’s security institutions.
In Mogadishu, Turkey operates one of its largest overseas military training facilities, where thousands of Somali soldiers have received training as part of efforts to build the capacity of the Somali National Army.
Security cooperation between the two countries has deepened further in recent years, with Turkey providing military assistance and technical support to Somalia’s campaign against Al-Shabaab.
Turkish-made drones have reportedly been used in operations targeting the militant group, which the Somali government views as an important component of its counterterrorism strategy.
However, the security partnership has also attracted scrutiny and political debate.
Concerns have periodically been raised over reports of civilian casualties linked to airstrikes, prompting calls from some politicians, community leaders, and civil society groups for greater transparency and accountability in military operations.
Critics argue that counterterrorism efforts must be conducted in a manner that prioritizes civilian protection and includes independent investigations whenever allegations of civilian harm arise.
Supporters of the partnership, meanwhile, maintain that Somalia’s fight against Al-Shabaab requires sustained international military and technical assistance.
The ambassador’s farewell remarks highlighted the depth of the relationship between the two countries, suggesting that ties between Somalia and Turkey extend beyond traditional diplomatic or economic interests.
His description of Somalia as a country with which Turkey shares a “common destiny” reflects Ankara’s long-term commitment to its engagement in Somalia.
As the ambassador departs, his message serves as a reminder of the strategic partnership that has developed between the two nations and the expectations of many Somalis that this relationship will continue to contribute to security, development, and stability while ensuring the protection of civilian lives.