Turkey has taken a significant step in strengthening its ties with Somalia by dispatching the Oruc Reis, an oil exploration vessel, to conduct 3D seismic surveys off Somalia’s coast. The vessel embarked from Istanbul on Saturday, marking the beginning of Turkey’s offshore exploration efforts in Somalia. This development is part of a broader collaboration between the two nations, which has gained momentum in recent years. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan presided over the vessel’s departure in a ceremony, underscoring the importance of this mission for both countries.

Somali Minister of Petroleum and Energy, Abdirizak Omar Mohamed, hailed the occasion as a monumental day for Somalia and Turkey. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate in the farewell ceremony alongside President Erdoğan. The Oruc Reis seismic research ship will play a key role in exploring offshore energy resources, with its 3D seismic surveys designed to provide detailed insights into Somalia’s oil reserves. The move is expected to pave the way for future oil extraction projects.

The growing cooperation between Turkey and Somalia extends beyond oil exploration, with the two nations recently entering into a series of strategic agreements. These include a maritime defense pact and other undisclosed arrangements related to offshore oil drilling. While the specific terms of these agreements have not been made public, they represent a deepening of Turkey’s involvement in Somalia’s energy sector and broader regional interests.

This partnership reflects Turkey’s expanding influence in the Horn of Africa, as it seeks to secure new energy sources and bolster its geopolitical standing. For Somalia, the exploration and potential extraction of offshore oil offer significant economic prospects, aligning with the country’s long-term development goals. The collaboration with Turkey is seen as a critical opportunity for Somalia to tap into its natural resources and enhance its economic resilience.