Somalia’s government and parliament have unanimously approved a ten-year defense pact with Turkey, a move fueled by an ongoing maritime dispute with neighboring Ethiopia. The deal, signed Wednesday, aims to bolster Somalia’s naval capabilities and safeguard its long coastline.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud emphasized that the agreement “is solely about cooperation between Somalia and Turkey on maritime defense and economy,” and denied any intention of inciting conflict with other nations. However, he acknowledged the existing tension with Ethiopia, stating, “We will start engaging in another war to defend our maritime territory from those who have violated our lawful rights.”
The dispute stems from a January agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia’s breakaway region, Somaliland, granting Ethiopia access to the sea through a 20-kilometer lease on Somaliland’s coast. Somalia views this as an infringement on its sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Turkey Steps Up as Key Partner
This defense pact strengthens Turkey’s position as Somalia’s leading economic and military partner. The agreement includes building, training, and equipping Somalia’s naval forces, aiming to enhance their capacity to combat piracy, terrorism, and other threats.
Turkey already maintains its largest overseas military base in Somalia, having trained over 5,000 Somali security personnel. This collaboration is crucial as the African Union peacekeeping mission (ATMIS) prepares to withdraw by year’s end, leaving Somalia responsible for its own security.
Addressing Regional Concerns
The deal also addresses regional concerns about the Horn of Africa’s strategic location. The Gulf of Aden, bordering Somalia and Somaliland, is a critical shipping route vulnerable to piracy and militant activity. Iran-backed Houthi rebels have recently targeted the area, further highlighting the need for regional maritime security cooperation.
Somaliland’s Quest for Recognition
While Somalia strengthens its ties with Turkey, Somaliland remains in a precarious position. Although it enjoys relative stability, its lack of international recognition hinders its economic potential. The Ethiopia deal was seen as a potential step towards recognition, but its legitimacy remains unclear.
The Future of Maritime Security
The Somalia-Turkey defense pact marks a significant development in the Horn of Africa’s maritime security landscape. However, questions regarding Ethiopia’s intentions and Somaliland’s recognition remain unanswered. The region’s future stability will depend on navigating these complex geopolitical issues and ensuring peaceful cooperation for the benefit of all parties involved.
