Mogadishu — China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with his country’s diplomats in Mogadishu, focusing on security challenges and Beijing’s policy towards the fight against armed groups in Somalia.
The meeting addressed plans to enhance protection for Chinese citizens and safeguard economic interests in the country, with Wang stressing that Beijing would take additional measures to ensure the safety of personnel working in high-risk areas.
Chinese embassy officials briefed the minister on the security environment in which they operate, noting that China would continue its support for the Somali National Army. They said such assistance would remain grounded in respect for Somalia’s sovereignty and the longstanding ties between the two nations.
The talks come as Somali authorities intensify military operations against militant groups including Al-Shabaab and affiliates linked to Islamic State, while seeking broader international cooperation to stabilise the country.
China, long regarded as a key partner for Somalia in trade and infrastructure development, now appears to be pursuing a more active role in regional security and political affairs as it seeks to protect its growing investments in East Africa.
Somalia’s government has welcomed Beijing’s continued backing at a time when it is looking to strengthen global partnerships to support stabilisation and state-building efforts.
