Chinese Envoy, Somali Army Chief Discuss Defense Cooperation

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: China has reaffirmed its support for Somalia’s security and sovereignty following a meeting between Chinese Ambassador Wang Yu and Somali National Army Chief General Odawaa Yusuf Rage.

The talks, held in Mogadishu, focused on expanding defense cooperation between the two countries, with particular attention to Somalia’s fight against Al-Shabaab and broader regional stability.

Ambassador Wang stressed China’s commitment to supporting Somalia’s security sector, describing the bilateral relationship as one rooted in shared respect for sovereignty and unity. He also noted China’s readiness to assist Somalia in tackling common threats, including terrorism and political fragmentation.

General Odawaa welcomed the renewed military cooperation, calling China a “trusted partner” in Somalia’s long-term push for national defense capacity and institutional reform.

The meeting comes days after China condemned a recent coastal defense pact between Taiwan and Somaliland, a move Beijing views as a violation of its One-China policy. Somalia, which also rejects any recognition of Somaliland’s autonomy, shares a parallel stance with China on territorial sovereignty.

The strengthened defense ties underscore a growing geopolitical alignment between Mogadishu and Beijing as both nations navigate mounting regional pressures.

The partnership is expected to include technical support, security training, and closer dialogue on issues affecting the Horn of Africa.