President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of the Federal Republic of Somalia visited the Turkish research vessel Oruc Reis, which recently finished an offshore oil exploration mission along Somalia’s coastline. This visit is an important step in Somalia’s efforts to assess and potentially develop its offshore natural resources. The exploration mission was carried out with Turkish technical teams.
The Oruc Reis, operated by Turkish personnel, conducted seismic surveys off Somalia’s coast as part of an ongoing partnership between Somalia and Turkey. This newly completed exploration marks the end of the first phase of surveying, which aims to understand the potential for offshore hydrocarbon development.
During his visit to the vessel, President Mohamud recognized the technical efforts involved and pointed out the broader implications for Somalia’s economic development.
“This is an important achievement that strengthens our goal of Somalia fully using its resources and turning them into economic opportunities and social development,” said the President.
He also acknowledged the contribution of Turkish personnel and the wider Somalia–Turkey partnership, which has played a role in various development areas over the past decade.
“The Turkish government and people have always been at the forefront of actions that show Somalia is a place to invest,” he added.
The Federal Government of Somalia has focused on managing natural resources sustainably and transparently as part of its long-term economic planning. The President noted that using these resources could support economic resilience and help address urgent national needs.
“The government is working hard to improve the country’s economy through the use of Somalia’s abundant natural resources, which can meet the current challenges in our country,” he stated.
The Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, along with international partners, is set to review the data collected during the exploration to decide on the next steps for assessment or development. Any future actions, such as possible drilling or production, will undergo regulatory review and comply with national guidelines.
Concluding this initial exploration phase shows progress in Somalia’s broader goal to responsibly explore its natural resources while focusing on economic diversification, legal compliance, and cooperation with international partners.
