MOGADISHU, (HAN) – Somalia’s Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre on Thursday held high-level talks with China’s Ambassador to Somalia, Wang Yu, in Mogadishu, where both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening diplomatic, economic, and development cooperation.
The discussions, according to officials, were aimed at enhancing bilateral relations at a time when Somalia continues its efforts to recover from decades of conflict and build stronger state institutions.
Prime Minister Barre expressed appreciation for Beijing’s longstanding support to Somalia, particularly in the areas of security, infrastructure development, and humanitarian assistance.
“China has played a key role in supporting Somalia’s state-building efforts,” Barre said in a statement issued by his office.
In recent months, China has stepped up its engagement with Somalia, delivering humanitarian aid to communities hit by prolonged drought and widespread food insecurity. Millions of Somalis remain vulnerable, as the Horn of Africa nation grapples with the combined effects of climate shocks, displacement, and persistent insecurity linked to extremist violence.
Ambassador Wang Yu underscored China’s readiness to expand its partnership with Somalia, noting that cooperation between the two nations was not only mutually beneficial but also essential for the stability of the wider region.
“The partnership between China and Somalia is rooted in mutual respect and shared interests,” Wang said. “Beijing remains committed to supporting Somalia’s peace, security, and development goals.”
China’s role in Somalia has increasingly gone beyond humanitarian relief. Beijing has funded development projects and provided technical assistance aimed at helping Somalia rebuild its infrastructure and strengthen governance. This growing involvement reflects China’s broader strategy of deepening ties with African countries through investment, trade, and development aid.
For Somalia, enhancing relations with international partners like China comes as the federal government seeks to consolidate fragile gains made in the fight against al-Shabaab insurgents, rebuild its economy, and establish sustainable state institutions after more than three decades of instability.
Thursday’s meeting between Barre and Wang is part of Mogadishu’s ongoing diplomatic outreach to strengthen partnerships that can bolster Somalia’s recovery process. Officials noted that China’s support remains vital not only for immediate humanitarian relief but also for long-term development and regional stability.
As Somalia continues its journey toward peace and reconstruction, partnerships with key allies such as China are expected to play an increasingly important role in shaping the country’s future.
