Somalia and Türkiye sign major maritime cooperation agreement

The Federal Government of Somalia has signed a wide-ranging maritime cooperation agreement with Türkiye, marking a significant expansion of the strategic partnership between the two nations. The deal, approved by the Somali Cabinet in a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, is designed to modernize Somalia's maritime sector, enhance port services, and facilitate bilateral trade and technical exchange.

Scope of the bilateral maritime agreement

The newly ratified pact covers multiple facets of maritime collaboration. Key areas include the development of maritime trade, improvements to ship traffic management, and the modernization of port services. A crucial component is the mutual recognition of certificates of competency for seafarers, which will facilitate the employment of Somali sailors. The agreement also establishes frameworks for technical cooperation, knowledge sharing, ensuring equality in port services, and simplifying commercial activities between the two countries.

Part of a broader maritime governance push

The Türkiye-Somalia deal was one of several strategic maritime policies approved by the Somali Cabinet. The government also ratified key international conventions, including the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships (1969), the Nairobi International Convention on the Removal of Wrecks (2007), and the Maritime Labour Convention (2006). These steps are aimed at aligning Somalia's maritime legal and operational standards with global norms and improving its international standing.

Official statement and strategic partnership context

Somali Ports and Maritime Transport Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur hailed the approvals, stating they "mark a significant advancement in strengthening Somalia’s maritime governance and international standing." He noted that "enhanced cooperation with the Republic of Türkiye" would help modernize ports, promote safe trade, protect the marine environment, and uphold seafarers' welfare. The maritime agreement builds upon a multidimensional partnership that has grown since 2011, encompassing Turkish investment and support in Somalia's economy, education, health, and infrastructure sectors.