By Horn Africa News
Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has announced that Somalia is positioning itself as a strategic hub linking Africa, the Arab world, and Asia, making use of its unique geographical location and vast natural resources.
Delivering a historic keynote address at the opening of the 7th China-Arab States Expo in Yinchuan, China, Prime Minister Hamza showcased Somalia’s emerging role in the global economy while calling for deeper cooperation with both China and the wider Arab world.
The Prime Minister underscored that Somalia has entered a new chapter of development, guided by a reform agenda that prioritizes peace, security, governance, and the creation of an enabling environment for investors.
“Somalia wants to become a major center connecting Africa, the Arab world, and Asia, by leveraging its resources and strategic location. We are prioritizing cooperation in energy, agriculture, fisheries, infrastructure, and technology,” Hamza said, noting that these sectors represent Somalia’s comparative advantage and untapped potential.
He highlighted Somalia’s over 3,000-kilometer coastline—the longest in mainland Africa—as a vital resource for the fisheries sector, while also pointing to fertile agricultural land, renewable energy potential, and emerging opportunities in technology and infrastructure as key drivers of growth.
On the economic front, Prime Minister Hamza revealed that trade between Somalia and China is on an upward trajectory, with bilateral trade increasing by 20 percent over the past year. He said this growth reflects both the strengthening of commercial ties and the broader potential for mutual investment.
Hamza also drew attention to the long-standing diplomatic relations between Mogadishu and Beijing, recalling that Somalia was the first African nation to establish diplomatic ties with China in 1960. He described this bond as “deep-rooted and enduring,” noting that it has been a cornerstone of Somalia’s foreign policy.
The Prime Minister used the platform to appeal to international investors and governments, assuring them of Somalia’s commitment to reforms, security, and building an inclusive economy. He argued that Somalia’s strategic location along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden offers unmatched opportunities for regional trade and connectivity.
“Somalia’s vision is to serve as a bridge between continents, unlocking economic growth not only for our people but also for the wider region,” he said.
The China-Arab States Expo, which brings together high-level government officials, business leaders, and investors from across Asia and the Arab world, provided Somalia with a rare opportunity to position itself on the global stage as an emerging market and a gateway to Africa.
