Somalia and Turkey Strengthen Cooperation with Oil and Gas Exploration Deal

Friday March 08, 2024 - 16:40:25
0 Comments
4056
Staff Reporter
Ankara (diplomat.so) - Officials from Somalia and Turkey have announced the signing of a significant agreement aimed at exploring oil and gas resources, further bolstering cooperation between the two nations.
The deal, signed on Thursday in Turkey, aims to promote bilateral cooperation in scientific, technical, and commercial aspects related to the development of Somalia's oil and gas reserves, according to Abdirizak Omar Mohamed, Somalia's Petroleum and Mineral Resources Minister.

Under the agreement, Turkey will undertake exploration activities for oil and gas in both onshore and offshore areas of Somalia. Minister Mohamed stated that Turkish involvement will encompass exploration, appraisal, development, production, distribution, and potentially refinery operations related to petroleum resources in Somalia.

"This comprehensive agreement, although the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) is yet to be finalized, marks a significant step in our cooperation," Mohamed told VOA Somali.

The agreement is part of the broader Defense and Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement reached between the two countries last month, lasting for a decade. As part of this agreement, Turkey will also provide support in building, training, and equipping the Somali navy, as highlighted by Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre.

Mohamed emphasized that a subsequent agreement will outline details of the production-sharing arrangement and establish a timeline for its implementation.

Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar welcomed the agreement, stating on X. (formerly Twitter) that the collaboration aims to bring Somalia's resources to its people and strengthen Turkey's presence in the Horn of Africa.

Turkey has been a key partner of Somalia since 2011, providing humanitarian aid and budgetary support, particularly during times of crisis such as the deadly famine. Additionally, Turkey has been involved in training Somali security forces, with the latest group graduating from a military facility established by Turkey on Thursday.

Minister Mohamed underscored the significance of the agreement in deepening the relationship between the two countries, describing Turkey as a steadfast ally and friend that has remained committed to supporting Somalia even during challenging times.

The news report was prepared by:  Munasar Mohamed

Related Items


Leave a comment