Turkey is preparing to send naval support to Somali waters following an agreement between the two nations for Turkey to explore oil and gas off the coast of Somalia. President Tayyip Erdogan has submitted a motion to the Turkish parliament seeking authorization for the deployment of Turkish military forces, including naval units, to Somalia’s territorial waters, according to state-run Anadolu Agency.
Agreement and Deployment
This decision follows an announcement by the Turkish Energy Ministry that an exploration vessel will be dispatched to the Somali coast later this year. The initiative is part of a broader hydrocarbon cooperation deal signed earlier this year between Turkey and Somalia, which also includes defense and economic cooperation.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Turkey has emerged as a significant ally of the Somali government in recent years, contributing to various development projects in the country. Ankara has constructed schools, hospitals, and infrastructure, and has offered scholarships for Somali students to study in Turkey. In 2017, Turkey inaugurated its largest overseas military base in Mogadishu, further solidifying its presence in the region. Turkish forces also provide training to Somali military and police personnel.
Economic and Strategic Implications
The deployment of the Turkish navy and the exploration for hydrocarbons underscore the deepening economic and strategic ties between Turkey and Somalia. The exploration initiative is expected to bolster Somalia’s economy by tapping into potential oil and gas reserves, while simultaneously enhancing Turkey’s influence in the region.
Conclusion
Turkey’s decision to send naval forces to Somalia for oil and gas exploration marks a significant step in the bilateral relationship between the two countries. As Turkey continues to invest in Somalia’s infrastructure and defense capabilities, the cooperation on hydrocarbon exploration is set to further strengthen their strategic partnership. The upcoming deployment will be closely watched for its economic and geopolitical impacts in the Horn of Africa.
