Somalia and China commit to strengthening strategic partnership
Somalia is set to benefit from enhanced cooperation with the People’s Republic of China following a high-level roundtable convened in Mogadishu on Sunday, where senior officials from both countries reaffirmed their commitment to expanding collaboration across key sectors, including trade, infrastructure, development, and social progress.
The meeting, held under the theme “Mutual Support and Joint Efforts, Strengthen China–Somalia Cooperation,” coincided with the 64th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. Discussions focused on advancing joint initiatives aimed at accelerating economic growth, promoting education, and enhancing human capital development.
Both delegations agreed to deepen coordination in infrastructure development, healthcare, and skills training, with China reiterating its long-standing commitment to supporting Somalia’s national development agenda.
The talks also underscored Somalia’s potential to increase exports under China’s zero-tariff policy for Somali goods, a key step toward strengthening bilateral trade.
State Minister for Family and Human Rights Mohamed Osman Omar emphasized that the renewed partnership would deliver “tangible and lasting benefits for Somali citizens” through practical projects designed to improve livelihoods, expand opportunities for women and youth, and enhance access to essential services.
Deputy Minister of Health Mohamed Hassan Mohamed commended China’s continued support, noting that cooperation between the two nations has yielded measurable progress in education, technology, and healthcare.
Former Deputy Prime Minister Mahdi Mohamed Gulaid acknowledged China’s sustained investment in infrastructure and human resource development, describing it as a cornerstone of Somalia’s reconstruction efforts.
He called for “results-driven cooperation that translates commitment into capacity and long-term resilience.”
The roundtable concluded with a joint declaration to scale up bilateral initiatives that advance Somalia’s economic and social transformation, signaling a renewed phase in the historic partnership between Mogadishu and Beijing.
