By Abdullahi Salad - Reporter
Somalia, 16 December 2025 - The President of the South West State of Somalia, Abdiaziz Hassan Mohamed Laftagareen, today received the Commander of Turkish-run TURKSOM Military Training Academy, Brigadier General Sebahattin, at the Presidential Palace in Baidoa, where they discussed training and capacity building programs for Somali Security Forces stationed in the Federal Member State.
The talks also focused on strengthening security cooperation between Somalia and Turkey especially in the fight against illegal armed groups.
The Baidoa meeting praised Turkey’s role in rebuilding Somalia’s security institutions, improving military leadership, and enhancing modern military skills—efforts considered crucial in combating insecurity and maintaining peace across the country.
President Laftagareen commended Turkey’s continued support for Somalia, emphasizing the importance of a sustainable partnership built on training, trust, and close cooperation to ensure lasting peace and overall development.
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Turkey is among Somalia’s key partners in supporting the reconstruction and professionalization of the Somali Armed Forces, having trained thousands of Somali soldiers.
The Mogadishu-based TURKSOM Academy has trained hundreds of Somali security officers in various security aspects.