By Abdullahi Salad - Reporter
Somalia, 17 January 2026 — Türkiye’s Ambassador to Somalia, Alper Aktaş has reiterated that his country will continue to stand with Somalia even as the Horn Africa witnesses major diplomatic shifts and security threats.
The Envoy made the remarks on Thursday after arriving in Las Anod for the inauguration of the North East State President-elect Abdulqadir Ahmed Aw-Ali
“We have always stood alongside our Somali brothers and sisters in both good times and difficult times, and we will continue to do so,” the ambassador said.
His remarks come as Türkiye continues to reiterate its support for Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity at the global stage, while further strengthening cooperation in security, development, and economic infrastructure.
The inauguration ceremony, on Saturday, also took place amid Israel’s announcement recognizing Somaliland as an independent state — a move strongly opposed by the Somali government and its international partners.
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Aktaş emphasized that his visit to Las Anod was not limited to attending the inauguration, but was part of Türkiye’s broader support for Somalia’s unity.
“On this meaningful day that strengthens Somalia’s unity and cohesion, we consider it a great honor to stand with our Somali brothers and sisters,” he added.
Türkiye’s pledge to defend Somalia’s sovereignty has been matched by visible actions — ranging from humanitarian assistance and military training to the development of ports, airports, and sustained support for federal institutions.
The Ambassador’s attendance at the inauguration of the North East State leadership, an administration formally integrated into Somalia’s federal system, sends a clear political message both domestically and internationally: Ankara stands firmly with Somalia in its unity quest.
