Turkey has extended its military mission in Somalia for another two years, keeping its forces in the country until July 2028 as Ankara and Mogadishu strengthen cooperation in security and energy.
The extension, approved by Turkey’s Parliament following a request from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, allows Turkish troops to continue supporting Somalia’s fight against Al-Shabaab, piracy, illegal fishing and other security threats.
Ankara says the mission will help strengthen Somalia’s security institutions and support the country’s efforts to take greater responsibility for protecting its territory.
“The continued deployment of the Turkish Armed Forces will contribute to improving the capacity of Somalia’s security institutions and support the country’s efforts to ensure its own security,” the Turkish government said.
Turkey’s military presence in Somalia is built on defence agreements between the two countries, including the training of Somali soldiers at Turkey’s military facility in Mogadishu.
The latest extension comes as the two nations expand cooperation beyond security, with Turkey also involved in offshore oil exploration projects in Somali waters.
Officials say the partnership reflects Turkey’s growing role in Somalia and its wider efforts to promote stability in the Horn of Africa.