Somalia approves major defence deal with Turkey

Parliament in Somalia has approved a major defence agreement with Turkey.

Under the ten-year deal, Turkey will arm and train Somali navy forces and deploy its own ships in Somali waters.

Analysts say it's a major step in enhancing Somalia’s maritime security.

Prime Minister Hamza Abdi said the deal eliminates - in his words - fears of terrorism, piracy, illegal fishing and the dumping of toxic waste.

It comes as Ethiopia signed a controversial agreement with the self-declared republic of Somaliland, which has increased tensions between Mogadishu and Addis Ababa. (Somalia, which considers Somaliland part of its territory, has accused Ethiopia of violating its sovereignty).