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Turkish fishermen will soon be allowed to operate in Somali waters as part of a new cooperation agreement between the two nations. This decision comes despite Somalia’s ban on trawlers, aimed at safeguarding its marine resources, the Turkish agriculture and forestry minister, İbrahim Yumaklı, announced during a meeting in Ankara.
The initiative signals a strengthened partnership between Turkey and Somalia, focusing on sustainable fisheries management and broader economic collaboration.
Turkey and Somalia Strengthen Ties
Minister İbrahim Yumaklı emphasized the strong bonds of friendship between Turkey and Somalia during his meeting with Somali Minister of Fisheries and Blue Economy Ahmed Hassan Aden. Yumaklı highlighted Turkey’s commitment to enhancing bilateral relations under President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s directives.
“Turkish fishermen have extensive experience in international waters,” Yumaklı stated, expressing confidence that Turkey could share its expertise with Somalia. He added, “By ensuring the sustainable use of Somalia’s resources, we can create a mutually beneficial framework for Turkish fishermen and Somali stakeholders.”
The Turkish minister proposed forming a technical committee to oversee the collaboration, suggesting the inaugural meeting be held in Turkey. This committee will focus on sustainable fisheries management, marking a significant step in the two countries’ economic partnership.
Somalia’s Ban on Trawlers and Turkey’s Role
Somalia recently reinforced its ban on trawlers to protect its marine resources from overexploitation. The arrival of the Turkish warship Kınalıada F514 at Mogadishu’s seaport in April underscored Turkey’s growing involvement in Somalia’s maritime security.
The warship’s docking occurred shortly after Turkey signed a defense and economic agreement with Somalia, committing to maritime security support. This agreement aligns with Somalia’s objectives of sustainable resource use while benefiting from Turkish expertise.
Turkey’s Broader Role in the Horn of Africa
Turkey’s influence in Somalia extends beyond fisheries. Earlier this year, Turkey played a key role in mediating a dispute between Somalia and Ethiopia. The disagreement stemmed from Ethiopia’s deal with Somaliland, Somalia’s breakaway region, which had sparked tensions.
After extensive negotiations in Ankara, Turkey brokered an agreement ensuring Ethiopia’s “reliable, safe, and sustainable access” to the sea under Somalia’s sovereign authority. The agreement was celebrated by Erdoğan as a “step towards peace and cooperation between Somalia and Ethiopia.”
Future Plans for Collaboration
The new fisheries agreement is expected to bolster Somalia’s economy while offering Turkish fishermen access to unexplored waters. By promoting sustainable practices, the deal aims to ensure long-term benefits for both nations.
President Erdoğan is scheduled to visit Ethiopia and Somalia early next year to further solidify these partnerships.
Implications for Sustainability and Development
While the collaboration opens up opportunities for Turkish fishermen, questions remain about its alignment with Somalia’s efforts to protect its marine ecosystem. However, both countries have expressed a commitment to sustainability, signaling a promising future for the initiative.
The fisheries agreement also symbolizes Turkey’s broader geopolitical strategy in the Horn of Africa, enhancing its influence in the region through economic, defense, and diplomatic partnerships.