ANKARA — The Turkish government has submitted a motion to the Turkish Grand National Assembly seeking approval to extend the deployment of Turkish armed forces in Somalia for an additional two years, according to officials familiar with the request.
The proposed extension would allow Turkish military personnel to continue supporting Somalia’s security sector through the training of Somali troops, military advisory services, technical assistance and cooperation in defence-related areas.
The request comes as Somalia continues efforts to rebuild and strengthen its national armed forces after decades of conflict and ongoing security challenges, including the threat posed by the militant group Al-Shabaab.
Turkish officials have said the presence of Turkish forces in Somalia contributes to improving the capabilities of Somali security institutions and supports efforts to establish a more effective and professional national army.
The two countries have maintained close defence ties in recent years, with Turkey becoming one of Somalia’s key international partners in the security sector. The partnership includes the operation of the TURKSOM Military Training Base in Mogadishu, which was established in 2017 to train Somali military personnel.
Through the facility and other cooperation programmes, Turkish military instructors have helped train Somali soldiers in areas including basic military skills, leadership, planning and operational capabilities.
Ankara has argued that continued cooperation with Somalia is important not only for bilateral relations but also for regional stability in the Horn of Africa, a strategically important region affected by security threats, political tensions and humanitarian challenges.
The Turkish government has previously extended military mandates for overseas deployments through parliamentary approval, and the latest request will now be debated by lawmakers before a final decision is made.
The proposed extension highlights Turkey’s growing role in Somalia, where it has expanded its involvement beyond security cooperation to include infrastructure projects, humanitarian assistance, trade and development programmes.
Somali officials have repeatedly welcomed Turkey’s support, describing the partnership as a key component of efforts to strengthen state institutions and improve national security.
