Türkiye plans to send fishing Vessels to Somalia as Maritime decurity improves

Türkiye is preparing to send fishing vessels to Somalia as improved maritime security creates new opportunities for investment and economic cooperation along the country’s coastline, the Turkish Ambassador to Somalia, Alper Aktaş, has said.

Speaking at Somalia’s first Maritime Conference, Ambassador Aktaş said the changing security environment had made it increasingly possible for international investors and businesses to explore opportunities in Somalia’s maritime sector.

He noted that 15 years ago, security concerns and terrorist threats made it difficult to pursue many of the opportunities that are now emerging along Somalia’s coast.

“Fifteen years ago, because of terrorism, it was difficult to work on the opportunities we are working on today. But now security is good, and we will bring fishing vessels to the country,” Ambassador Aktaş said, according to local media reports.

The ambassador attributed the improved environment in part to measures undertaken by the Federal Government of Somalia to strengthen security and maritime governance.

The planned arrival of Turkish fishing vessels is expected to contribute to the development of Somalia’s fisheries sector and create opportunities for cooperation and investment in the country’s wider blue economy.

Somalia and Türkiye have developed extensive bilateral cooperation in recent years, including in security, defence and economic development. Ankara has also supported efforts to strengthen Somalia’s maritime security and has expressed interest in expanding investment and commercial engagement.

The announcement comes as Somalia seeks to attract greater investment into its maritime sector, including fisheries, ports and other coastal industries, while strengthening the management and protection of its marine resources.

Mustaqbal