By Horn Africa News
ANKARA – Somalia’s Minister of Defence, Ahmed Moallim Fiqi, attended a high-profile graduation ceremony in Ankara on Saturday for military officers, including Somali personnel, who successfully completed advanced training at the National Defence University of Turkey.
The graduates, drawn from Somalia’s army, air force, and navy, underwent rigorous academic and tactical training designed to enhance leadership, strategic planning, and operational capabilities.
The Minister emphasized that the skills and knowledge gained by these officers will be critical in strengthening Somalia’s security forces and supporting national stability amid ongoing security challenges in the country.
During the ceremony, Minister Fiqi presented the officers with certificates and medals, commending their dedication, perseverance, and professional excellence throughout the intensive program.
He also highlighted that such training programs represent a long-term investment in the capacity and modernization of Somalia’s armed forces.
The graduation event was attended by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, senior members of the Turkish government, top military officials, and defense ministers from several other countries whose officers were also graduating.
President Erdoğa lauded the international cooperation, emphasizing Turkey’s commitment to supporting partner nations in military education and security sector development.
The ceremony underscores ongoing military collaboration between Somalia and Turkey, which has included officer training, strategic partnerships, and knowledge exchange initiatives aimed at building a professional, capable, and modern Somali security force. Analysts say such cooperation reflects Turkey’s growing role in East African security affairs and Somalia’s efforts to bolster its national defense capabilities.
