Africa News of Thursday, 22 February 2024

Source: bbc.com

Somalia approves major defence deal with Turkey

The 10 year defence deal will see Somalia's army get training from Turkey The 10 year defence deal will see Somalia's army get training from Turkey

Parliament in Somalia has approved a major defence agreement with Turkey.

Under the ten-year deal, Turkey will arm and train Somali navy forces and deploy its own ships in Somali waters.

Analysts say it's a major step in enhancing Somalia’s maritime security.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi said the deal eliminates - in his words - fears of terrorism, piracy, illegal fishing and the dumping of toxic waste.

It comes as Ethiopia signed a controversial agreement with the self-declared republic of Somaliland, which has increased tensions between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa. (Somalia, which considers Somaliland part of its territory, has accused Ethiopia of violating its sovereignty).