Somalia’s President Visits Turkish Drone Technology Center Amid Security Challenges

ANKARA, Turkey — Somalia’s President Hassan Sheikh made an official visit to Turkey’s Özdemir Bayraktar Technology Center, a leading facility specializing in the production of unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, which play a key role in the fight against the militant group Al-Shabaab.

Accompanied by Somalia’s Minister of Ports and Maritime Transport, President Hassan toured the center and received detailed briefings from officials and engineers on Turkey’s advancements in defense technology, especially in drone manufacturing and modern military equipment.

During the visit, Hassan praised Turkey’s progress in its defense industry and said Somalia could benefit from Turkish expertise to strengthen its defense capabilities and counterterrorism efforts.

The Özdemir Bayraktar Center is regarded as one of the world’s most advanced military technology hubs, producing drones used for airstrikes and ground operations against extremist groups.

The visit comes as President Hassan, whose term ends in May 2026, recently signed oil and military agreements with Turkey amid increasing battlefield losses to Al-Shabaab insurgents.

Analysts say the visit highlights the growing strategic partnership between Somalia and Turkey, particularly in security cooperation, defense collaboration, and technology exchange.

Turkey reaffirmed its commitment to continue supporting Somalia’s efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability.

GAROWE ONLINE