In an exclusive interview with Jeune Afrique, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan outlined Türkiye’s expanding engagement across Africa, with a strong emphasis on counterterrorism cooperation, regional mediation, and development-focused diplomacy—positioning Somalia as a strategic anchor in its Africa policy.
The interview marks Fidan’s first major French-language media appearance since becoming foreign minister in June 2023, and provides a rare glimpse into Ankara’s comprehensive approach to African affairs, one that blends military expertise, intelligence cooperation, and a rejection of traditional power dynamics.
Somalia: A Pillar of Türkiye’s African Strategy
At the heart of the discussion was Somalia, where Türkiye continues to support government efforts to combat terrorism and insurgency, particularly the threat posed by Al-Shabaab. Unlike conventional military deployments, Fidan emphasized that Türkiye avoids a heavy troop presence, opting instead to share training, intelligence, and counterterrorism methods.
“We are present in Somalia, Niger, and Mali with tools, not troops,” he said, adding that Turkey’s approach centers on capacity-building rather than occupation.
This cooperation has made Türkiye a critical ally for Somalia’s federal government, particularly as it balances internal challenges and external tensions—including a recent dispute with Ethiopia over a port deal involving Somaliland.
Ankara’s Role as a Mediator in the Horn of Africa
Fidan praised the Ankara Declaration, signed in December 2024, for helping ease tensions between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa. Facilitated by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the talks prevented a potential diplomatic rupture and laid the foundation for a joint security initiative against extremist groups operating across borders.
Türkiye’s role in the region has expanded as it offers a non-aligned alternative to both Western and Eastern power blocs. Fidan asserted that Ankara’s partnerships are rooted in “historical solidarity and mutual respect,” rather than colonial or extractive ambitions.
Responding to French Criticism and Embracing Multipolar Engagement
Rejecting claims that Türkiye has stoked anti-French sentiment in Africa, Fidan emphasized that African nations “interpret their own histories” and that Türkiye’s role is supportive, not adversarial.
His remarks follow growing criticism from Paris, where officials accuse Ankara of undermining French influence in former colonies. Türkiye, however, frames its presence as part of a broader multipolar shift where African countries seek new partnerships.
Readiness to Mediate in Sudan, and Support for Dialogue in Libya and Western Sahara
Turning to regional hotspots, Fidan confirmed that Türkiye remains ready to mediate between Sudan’s military leadership and the RSF, warning of spillover effects into Chad if the current conflict continues unresolved.
On Libya and Western Sahara, Türkiye reiterated its backing for UN-led processes, advocating for inclusive elections and institutional rebuilding over external imposition.
Broader Geopolitical Outlook
While the interview also touched on Türkiye’s stances in Syria, Israel, Ukraine, and Gaza, Fidan’s core message remained focused on Africa—presenting Türkiye as a credible, long-term partner in peacebuilding, security, and sovereign development.
As Türkiye expands its footprint across the continent, the country’s evolving role as mediator, trainer, and development partner suggests a durable pivot toward a new model of cooperation—one centered not on power projection, but on shared security and stability.