Erzurum MP and Chairman of the Türkiye-Somalia Parliamentary Friendship Group Abdurrahim Fırat: “This mission is a clear demonstration of Türkiye’s leadership in promoting global security and regional stability.”

ANKARA – The Turkish Grand National Assembly has approved a mandate extending the Turkish Armed Forces’ naval operations in the Gulf of Aden, Somali Basin, Arabian Sea, and surrounding waters for an additional year, starting February 10, 2025. The decision highlights Türkiye’s commitment to addressing regional security threats, protecting international maritime routes, and further strengthening its deep-rooted partnership with Somalia.

Erzurum MP and Türkiye-Somalia Parliamentary Friendship Group Chairman Abdurrahim Fırat delivered a comprehensive speech in Parliament prior to the vote, emphasizing the mission’s critical role in combating piracy, terrorism, and other illegal activities in one of the world’s most strategically vital waterways.

“A MISSION FOR REGIONAL PEACE AND GLOBAL TRADE SECURITY”
Fırat began by outlining the strategic importance of the Gulf of Aden, which serves as a key maritime trade artery connecting the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. Millions of tons of cargo pass through these waters annually, making them vital for global commerce. However, the region remains vulnerable to piracy, arms trafficking, and terrorist activities, which threaten international shipping and regional stability.

“This deployment is not merely about military presence; it is about ensuring the safety of global trade, fostering international cooperation, and protecting the livelihoods of millions who depend on secure maritime routes,” Fırat stated.

He emphasized that Türkiye’s presence in the region is part of its broader vision to contribute to international peace and security. “As a country with a long-standing tradition of supporting global stability, Türkiye remains resolute in its mission to protect the collective interests of the international community,” he added.

TÜRKİYE-SOMALIA RELATIONS: A STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP
Fırat highlighted the transformative impact of Türkiye’s engagement with Somalia, which began a new chapter following President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s historic visit to the country in 2011. Over the years, Türkiye has become one of Somalia’s most steadfast allies, offering comprehensive support across various sectors, including infrastructure, education, healthcare, and humanitarian aid.

“Türkiye has always stood shoulder to shoulder with the Somali people,” Fırat remarked. “From building hospitals and schools to training future leaders at Turkish universities, we are committed to empowering Somalia for a brighter future.”

Fırat pointed out the establishment of a major Turkish military training base in Mogadishu as a cornerstone of bilateral security cooperation. He explained that Somali soldiers trained at this facility have played a critical role in countering terrorist groups like Al-Shabaab, bolstering the Somali government’s ability to maintain law and order.

“This training base is not just about strengthening Somalia’s military capacity—it is about equipping a nation to protect its sovereignty and secure its people,” Fırat noted. He further emphasized that Türkiye’s unwavering support has been instrumental in helping Somalia address its most pressing security challenges.

NAVAL DEPLOYMENT TO ENHANCE MARITIME SECURITY
The Gulf of Aden and Somali Basin are hotspots for illegal activities, including human smuggling, drug trafficking, and arms trading. Fırat underlined the deterrent effect of the Turkish Navy in these waters, noting that their presence contributes to the broader international effort to combat these threats.

Fırat also touched upon Türkiye’s growing energy cooperation with Somalia, particularly in the context of the Defense and Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement. He highlighted the deployment of the Oruç Reis seismic research vessel along Somali coasts as a groundbreaking step toward helping Somalia unlock its natural resources. “This initiative will pave the way for Somalia to harness its energy potential, contributing to its long-term economic development,” Fırat stated.

TÜRKİYE’S ROLE AS A GLOBAL PEACE LEADER
In his speech, Fırat praised Türkiye’s evolving role as a proactive and responsible global actor under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s leadership. He highlighted the country’s contributions to international peacekeeping missions, humanitarian efforts, and initiatives to strengthen the security infrastructure of partner nations.

“Türkiye is no longer just a nation concerned with its own borders; it is a country that takes responsibility for peace and stability across the globe,” Fırat remarked. He added that Türkiye’s engagement in Somalia is a prime example of this vision in action.

Fırat also commended the Somali government under President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud for its strides toward democratization and regional integration. He highlighted Somalia’s recent achievements, including its election to the United Nations Security Council, the lifting of the UN arms embargo, and its reintegration into the East African Community.

“These milestones are a testament to Somalia’s growing role as a respected and capable actor in the international system. Türkiye is proud to stand by Somalia as it navigates this journey toward peace, stability, and prosperity,” Fırat said.

A SYMBOL OF TÜRKİYE-SOMALIA SOLIDARITY
Fırat concluded by emphasizing the broader implications of the naval mission. “This deployment is not just about Türkiye’s security interests; it is a demonstration of our commitment to global maritime safety, regional stability, and the enduring friendship between Türkiye and Somalia,” he stated.

The extension of Türkiye’s naval mission has been warmly welcomed by Somali officials, who see it as a critical step toward enhancing maritime security and deepening bilateral ties.