Mogadishu(Mogadishu24)-The Turkish seismic survey vessel, Oruç Reis, docked at Mogadishu seaport on Friday, marking the beginning of a historic gas exploration mission in Somali waters.

The vessel’s arrival was celebrated by officials from the Somali and Turkish governments, with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud expressing optimism about the economic potential this venture brings to Somalia.

During a welcoming ceremony, President Hassan hailed the event as a “historic milestone” that promises to spur economic development and create job opportunities for Somali citizens.

He emphasized the government’s commitment to responsibly utilizing the country’s natural resources while safeguarding the national interest and public welfare.

“This step will lead to economic progress and widespread job creation,” said President Hassan. “The Federal Government of Somalia is dedicated to making the most of our natural resources, ensuring that our nation benefits while preserving the public good.”

The event was attended by dignitaries from both Somalia and Türkiye, reflecting the close ties between the two nations. President Hassan expressed his gratitude to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and the Turkish people for their continuous support in rebuilding and developing Somalia.

“On behalf of the Somali people, I thank the citizens, government, and leadership of Türkiye for their unwavering support,” he said.

“Today, you have once again taken a step to strengthen Somalia’s progress, economy, and capacity.”

The vessel’s mission, as described by Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar, involves conducting a 3D seismic survey over approximately 5,000 square kilometers (1,930 square miles) of Somali waters.

Minister Bayraktar noted on social media that “Oruç Reis has reached its mission location after its journey across continents,” highlighting Türkiye’s dedication to supporting Somalia’s resource development.

The seismic survey marks the first such exploration of its kind in Somalia’s history, aiming to unlock the nation’s oil and gas potential. The Turkish Petroleum company holds exploration licenses covering a maritime jurisdiction area of 15,000 square kilometers, divided into three fields.

Somali Minister of Information, Daud Aweis Jama, described the event as the dawn of a new chapter in Somalia’s economic future.

“Despite facing decades of challenges, the Somali Federal Government, under President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud’s leadership, is taking concrete steps to harness Somalia’s oil potential for the benefit of its citizens,” he said.

He emphasized that the move signals resilience and a readiness to embrace a future of peace and prosperity.

Türkiye has been a steadfast ally to Somalia, providing support across various sectors including education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The two countries have signed multiple cooperation agreements covering security, energy, trade, and more.

Türkiye has also played a key role in training over 6,000 Somali soldiers, strengthening Somalia’s fight against Al-Shabaab.

As the Oruç Reis embarks on its seismic survey mission, the collaboration between Somalia and Türkiye continues to deepen, setting the stage for economic growth and a stronger future for the Somali people.