Türkiye and Somalia Ink New Oil and Gas Exploration Deal

At the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Türkiye and Somalia inked a new oil and gas exploration deal. On the surface, it’s a handshake over energy. But underneath, it’s a sign of something bigger — Türkiye’s deepening footprint in Africa. From military training to building schools and hospitals, Türkiye’s presence in Somalia now touches nearly every sector. What started as development aid has evolved into a full strategic alliance — one that Somali officials now call historic. And Türkiye isn’t just investing in oil — it’s investing in diplomacy. As tensions rise between Somalia and Ethiopia, Ankara is positioning itself as a key mediator in a region long dominated by foreign powers with very different agendas. Across the continent, Türkiye is drilling deeper — not just for energy, but for influence. From Senegal to Somalia, oil deals are being signed, embassies opened, and alliances reshaped. So what’s next? Can Türkiye maintain this momentum and trust in a region where many before it have stumbled? And is this the beginning of a new chapter in African diplomacy - one with Ankara at the table? Guests: Federico Donelli Assistant Professor at Trieste University Hassan Khannenje Director of the Horn International Institute For Strategic Studies https://x.com/StraitTalkTRT