By HAN News Desk
ISTANBUL — Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud arrived in Istanbul on an official visit to Türkiye, where he is scheduled to hold high-level talks with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and attend a landmark event related to the launch of Somalia’s oil and energy development plans.
President Hassan Sheikh was warmly received upon arrival as part of a visit aimed at strengthening the long-standing strategic partnership between Somalia and Türkiye, a key ally that has played a major role in Somalia’s security, infrastructure and economic recovery over the past decade.
According to Somali officials, discussions between the two leaders will focus on expanding cooperation in economic development, energy and investment, with particular attention on Somalia’s emerging oil and gas sector. A formal event in Türkiye is expected to showcase Somalia’s plans for hydrocarbon exploration and production, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to harness its natural resources.
The visit comes at a politically sensitive moment for Somalia, as the federal government continues to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity amid regional and international diplomatic developments. Somali authorities view Türkiye as a trusted partner that supports Somalia’s unity and state-building process.
In addition to energy cooperation, the two presidents are expected to review bilateral relations in security, counterterrorism, maritime development and humanitarian assistance. Türkiye has been one of Somalia’s most influential partners, maintaining a large diplomatic presence in Mogadishu, training Somali security forces and investing in key infrastructure projects.
Officials said new agreements in the energy and petroleum sectors may be announced during the visit, aimed at attracting investment and laying the groundwork for long-term economic growth that could benefit the Somali population.
The talks will also include an exchange of views on regional stability in the Horn of Africa and shared strategic interests, underscoring the depth of ties between Ankara and Mogadishu as Somalia seeks to consolidate peace, rebuild its economy and responsibly manage its natural resources.
