The Turkish government has officially announced for the first time that it will directly support efforts to combat armed groups operating in Somalia, particularly Al-Shabaab and ISIS, according to Turkish officials.

Speaking on Ankara’s new counterterrorism approach, Türkiye’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan stated that his country will stand by its international allies, with Somalia being among the highest priorities.

“Türkiye will directly support the efforts of Somali forces against Al-Shabaab and ISIS,” Fidan said, elaborating on plans to expand security cooperation and counterterrorism operations.

He added that Ankara’s support would not be limited to Somalia alone, noting that Turkey also plans to assist other nations facing threats from armed groups, such as Nigeria.

Türkiye is among the countries that work closely with African nations, particularly in the areas of security cooperation, military training, and the development of modern communication systems related to combating militant groups.