Former Somali PM reflects on pioneering Somali-Turkish relations and national self-reliance

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Sunday March 17, 2024

MOGADISHU (HOL) — In a revealing interview, Somalia’s former Prime Minister Abdi Farah Shirdon shed light on the significant strides made in fostering Somali-Turkish relations during his tenure, emphasizing an agenda aimed at elevating Somalia from dependency to self-sufficiency. The former leader recounted his administration’s efforts in strengthening international ties, particularly with Turkey, as a critical component of Somalia’s path toward autonomy and economic independence.

“Our strategic partnership with Turkey was a key pillar in our quest for self-reliance,” the former Prime Minister stated. He highlighted the groundbreaking defence and energy deals with Turkey, which he said began through conversations that he had with Turkish officials over a decade ago during his tenure. The former leader said these talks ” paved the way for infrastructural and educational advancements, including improvements to Somalia’s airport and port facilities and establishing military and academic cooperation.He proudly reflected on the transformative vision that guided these efforts, “Our focus was not just on immediate aid but on creating lasting infrastructure and educational systems with the support of our Turkish partners.”

The former PM says that he was lucky to have the assistance of a dedicated diaspora team. “Several Somalis outside of the government worked on this project, including Ahmedei Cheikgurei, a senior advisor with extensive knowledge about the Turkish landscape.”

Cheikgurei told HOL about previous attempts to strengthen ties with Turkey, highlighting a pivotal moment undermined by domestic challenges.

“Over a decade ago, we initiated a similar Memorandum of Understanding with Turkey to enhance our mutual development and cooperation. Unfortunately, despite its significant potential, Somalia’s legislators never ratified the MoU due to ongoing political infighting,” Ahmedei stated, reflecting on past efforts to solidify Somali-Turkish relations. “Nonetheless, we are pleased that the deal is finally completed.”
 
Shirdon’s efforts culminated with a state visit to Turkey to meet with then Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

Addressing the controversial MoU between Ethiopia and Somaliland, he denounced it as an infringement on Somalia’s sovereignty. He called for a strong but transparent response from the current government to protect the nation’s interests.

“Transparency and legal integrity in our international engagements are imperative,” he remarked, stressing the need for the Somali populace to be well-informed about the nation’s international agreements and resource management strategies.

Despite the myriad challenges faced, including security concerns and governance transparency, the former Prime Minister remained hopeful about Somalia’s future prospects, particularly highlighting opportunities for growth in infrastructure, education, and resource utilization.

Reflecting on the challenges and achievements of his term and his eventual political ousting, he noted, “Our journey was challenging, but our resolve was firm to transition from survival to substantial development.” He expressed a sense of vindication as the initiatives he started have begun to bear fruit, affirming his vision for a self-reliant Somalia.

Shirdon was ousted from government in December 2013 by a parliamentary vote of no confidence. He believes his progress in reestablishing relations with international partners was part of the reason for his dismissal.

He advised the current administration to continue leveraging international relationships, particularly with Turkey, within transparent and legal frameworks to safeguard Somalia’s interests and sovereignty.

“Somalia has the right to use its resources as it sees fit. It must be utilized to its maximum benefit. However, the citizens also have a right to know what is being done with the public resources.”

 



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