Mogadishu: Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre on Monday hailed the launch of Trkiye's deep-sea drilling mission off the coast of Somalia as a 'historic' step, as Ankara's deep-sea drillship Cagri Bey makes its way to begin its first overseas mission. 'Today, with Cagri Bey, we may be witnessing the beginning of something greater - the opening chapter of real economic transformation,' Barre wrote on his X account. He described the mission as a moment when Somalia's natural wealth begins to drive national strength and deliver the long-awaited impact for the people.

According to Anadolu Agency, Barre expressed that generations of Somalis have heard about the country's rich resources but have waited for decades to see that potential realized. He emphasized that the wait is coming to an end and that better days are approaching. Barre extended his gratitude to Somalia's 'Turkish brothers,' led by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, for selecting Somalia as the first destination for this mission. He highlighted that the decision is not just strategic but also a symbol of trust and a testament to the evolving partnership between Trkiye and Somalia.

The Cagri Bey, which left the southern port of Tasucu in Mersin province on Sunday, is expected to reach Mogadishu in about 45 days and commence drilling in April at the Curad-1 well. Trkiye and Somalia have signed agreements in 2024 covering onshore and offshore oil and gas exploration. The seismic vessel Oruc Reis had previously completed surveys in three offshore blocks.