(25-09-23) DHUSAMAREB — Amid an escalating conflict with al-Shabaab, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud held high-level talks with Ibrahim Mete Yagli, the Turkish Ambassador to Somalia, and General Sebahattin Kalkan, Commander of the TurkSom military academy. The meeting took place at the Galmudug Palace in Dhusamareb, where the President has been personally leading an offensive against the extremist group for two months.
President Mohamud thanked the Turkish government for its unwavering support in Somalia’s ongoing efforts towards liberation, governance, and economic development. “Turkey has been a steadfast pillar in our relentless fight against extremism,” stated the President.
For his part, Ambassador Yagli praised the Somali government’s concerted efforts to neutralise al-Shabaab insurgents who pose a significant obstacle to peace and prosperity. “Turkey is fully committed to aiding Somalia in its quest to become a peaceful and prosperous nation, devoid of the scourge of al-Shabaab,” said the Ambassador.
The meeting gains added significance as President Mohamud has been at the forefront, leading military operations against al-Shabaab in both Galmudug and Hirshabelle States. It was acknowledged that the TurkSom academy, managed by General Kalkan, will continue to play a pivotal role in training Somali forces to counteract extremist elements effectively.
In an official statement released after the meeting, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to work in close collaboration, particularly in enhancing security operations and counter-terrorism measures. The statement indicated that this meeting is a precursor to further strategic partnerships aimed at establishing lasting peace and security in the region.
Halqabsi News
