Somalia, China Seek To Deepen Economic and Investment Ties

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: Somalia has called for deeper economic and investment cooperation with China as the two countries seek to build on decades of diplomatic and development ties.

The call was made by Speaker of Somalia’s Upper House, Abdi Hashi Abdullahi, during an event marking the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

Abdi Hashi said Somalia and China had built a longstanding relationship based on mutual respect, cooperation and shared interests, describing the ties between the two countries as having a strong historical foundation.

He also thanked Beijing for its continued support to Somalia and said the relationship should now be further expanded in areas capable of delivering tangible benefits to both countries.

Particular emphasis was placed on trade, economic development and investment, with the Somali side highlighting the potential for greater cooperation around shared economic interests.

The remarks come as Somalia and China continue to expand engagement beyond their traditional diplomatic relationship into areas including infrastructure, development and security.

China has maintained relations with Somalia since 1960, and Beijing has repeatedly expressed support for Somalia’s sovereignty, territorial integrity and state-building efforts.

The two countries have also increased high-level engagement in recent years. Somalia’s Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi held talks with Chinese Defence Minister Admiral Dong Jun in Beijing earlier this month, with the discussions focusing on strengthening defence cooperation and expanding practical engagement between the two countries.

Against that backdrop, Abdi Hashi’s emphasis on economic and investment cooperation points to a broader Somali effort to deepen relations with China across several sectors while seeking greater opportunities for development and private-sector investment.

The Upper House speaker said continued cooperation should ultimately translate into practical outcomes for the people of both countries.