Somalia on Thursday expressed deep appreciation for Turkiye’s unwavering support and the strong diplomatic relationship between the two nations. During a ceremony held in Mogadishu, Turkish Ambassador to Somalia, Alper Aktas, and the Director of Turkish Red Crescent Somalia, Serif Simsek, were awarded certificates of recognition for their contributions to Somalia.
Mohamud Moalim, head of the Somali National Disaster Management Agency (SoDMA), highlighted Somalia’s gratitude to Turkiye and its people for their continued generosity and robust diplomatic ties.
Earlier in the month, Turkiye played a key role in training 200 staff members of SoDMA, further cementing its role in capacity-building initiatives in the country. The month-long programme took place at Mogadishu Somali Turkiye Training and Research Hospital, also known as Erdogan Hospital.
Turkiye has been a close ally of Somalia, significantly investing in the country’s education, infrastructure, and healthcare systems, while also providing extensive humanitarian aid. Additionally, Turkiye operates its largest overseas military facility in Mogadishu, where it trains personnel from the Somali National Army, further strengthening its strategic partnership with the Horn of Africa nation.