Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan hosted his Somali counterpart, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, for high-level talks in Istanbul on Tuesday, December 30, 2025. This strategic meeting took place at the Dolmabahce Presidential Office, underscoring the deep partnership between the two nations.
The summit comes just days after Israel became the first UN member state to formally recognize Somaliland as a sovereign nation on December 26. Turkey, a long-term ally of Somalia, has condemned the move as “illegitimate” and a violation of international law.
Strategic Energy and Space Agreements
During the summit, the two leaders moved beyond diplomacy to sign several “historically significant” agreements. These deals focus on energy, security, and advanced technology.
Key highlights of the new partnerships include:
- Energy Exploration: The Turkish seismic vessel Oruç Reis recently completed surveys of 4,465 square kilometers of Somali waters. Consequently, Turkey plans to begin offshore drilling in 2026.
- Spaceport Development: In a landmark move, Turkey and Somalia agreed to establish a spaceport in the Horn of Africa. The project is already in its initial construction phase.
- Defense Support: President Erdogan reaffirmed Ankara’s unwavering commitment to Somalia’s fight against terrorism and the preservation of its national unity.
Response to Somaliland Recognition
Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland has sparked widespread condemnation from the African Union, Egypt, and Turkey. Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but had not received formal recognition from any UN member until last week.
President Erdogan described the recognition as an act of interference. He stated that it aligns with efforts to destabilize the region.
“Turkey will continue to stand by our Somali brothers in protecting their territorial integrity,” Erdogan noted during a joint press conference.
President Mohamud thanked Turkey for its leadership, stating that Somalia has “strongly felt Turkey’s support” during this challenge to its sovereignty.
Regional Context and Security
The meeting also addressed regional tensions involving Ethiopia. Earlier in 2025, Turkey hosted mediation talks between Somalia and Ethiopia. Those discussions focused on a separate memorandum of understanding where Ethiopia sought sea access through Somaliland in exchange for potential recognition.
Turkey remains one of Somalia’s most significant investors. It operates its largest overseas military base in Mogadishu, where it trains the elite Gorgor special forces to combat Al-Shabaab militants.
Armenian Dram
Ghana Cedi
Gambian Dalasi
Guinea Franc
Nigerian Naira
CFA Franc BEAC
