By HAN News Desk
MOGADISHU — A Chinese fishing vessel that was hijacked by armed men off the coast of Somalia has been safely rescued, according to a statement released by the Chinese embassy in Somalia on Monday.
The vessel was reportedly seized in waters off the semi-autonomous Puntland region, an area located in northeastern Somalia that has previously experienced incidents of maritime insecurity and piracy. Authorities said the ship was freed on March 2 following coordinated diplomatic and security efforts involving Somali officials and other parties. All crew members aboard the vessel were rescued safely and were reported to be unharmed.
In its statement, the embassy strongly condemned the attack, describing it as a serious threat to the safety of seafarers and to international maritime security in the region. It emphasized that China remains committed to protecting its citizens and companies operating abroad and will continue to cooperate with Somali authorities to prevent similar incidents in the future.
According to the embassy, Chinese officials maintained close communication with both the Federal Government of Somalia and the Puntland State Administration throughout the incident. The coordination helped facilitate the safe resolution of the hijacking and ensured the protection of the crew.
Somali authorities also reaffirmed that Chinese fishing vessels operating in Somali waters are doing so legally. Officials said the vessels have authorization from both federal and regional governments and are operating in accordance with Somali national fisheries regulations.
Security analysts note that while large-scale piracy off Somalia declined in recent years due to international naval patrols and improved coastal security, isolated incidents still occur, particularly in areas where armed groups and illegal fishing activities create tensions in local waters.
Both Somalia and China said they would strengthen cooperation in maritime security, fisheries management, and the protection of commercial shipping routes. Officials described the incident as a test of the long-standing diplomatic and economic relationship between the two countries, which includes cooperation in infrastructure development, trade, and security.
The Chinese embassy concluded by expressing appreciation to Somali authorities and all parties involved in resolving the situation, while urging continued vigilance to ensure the safety of international maritime operations in the waters surrounding Somalia.
