President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud presided over the official welcoming ceremony of the drilling vessel Çağrı Bey, which has arrived in Somalia to commence offshore petroleum exploration activities.
The arrival of the vessel marks a significant milestone in Somalia’s efforts to harness its natural resources and advance the country’s long-term economic development agenda.
Addressing the ceremony, President Hassan Sheikh described the arrival of the Çağrı Bey as a landmark national achievement that “paves the way for economic growth, increased investment, and new employment opportunities.”
He emphasized that the Federal Government remains committed to ensuring that Somalia’s natural resources are developed responsibly and managed in a manner that benefits all Somali citizens.
The President reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to transparent, accountable, and equitable resource governance, stressing that revenues generated from the petroleum sector must be transformed into improved public services, sustainable economic development, and lasting stability.
President Hassan Sheikh also expressed his appreciation to the Government and people of Türkiye for their continued partnership and support to Somalia.
He commended Türkiye’s longstanding contribution to Somalia’s reconstruction, development, and economic transformation, noting that the growing cooperation between the two countries reflects a shared commitment to prosperity and mutual progress.
The ceremony, held at the Port of Mogadishu, was attended by senior leaders and officials, including the Deputy Speaker of the House of the People, the Prime Minister of the Federal Government of Somalia, the President of Galmudug State, cabinet ministers, the Governor of Banaadir Region and Mayor of Mogadishu, the Port Manager of Mogadishu Port, the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources of Türkiye, members of the diplomatic corps, and other distinguished guests.
The commencement of offshore exploration activities represents a major step forward in Somalia’s economic journey and reflects growing international confidence in the country’s future and investment potential.
