Mogadishu(SONNA)-China and Somalia on Monday celebrated the 60th anniversary of the establishment of the diplomatic relations between the two nations that started December 14, 1960, SONNA reported.
The Chinese Embassy organized very colorful event on this occasion and attended by senior Somali Government officials, diplomats, experts from think tanks and China-Somalia associations and other dignitaries in Mogadishu.
Somali President, Mohamed Abdulahi Farmajo conveyed warmest congratulation on this remarkable occasion to his partner of Chinese President, Xi Jinping on the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations.
“Somalia will always remain a friend of the people’s republic of China in facing the challenges of the future ahead of us. I look forward to working with your Excellency closely to further enhance the friendly relations and good cooperation between our two countries for mutual benefits of our two people”, Mr. Farmajo said in his massage.
He added that the Somali Government and people highly value the two countries’ close cooperation and friendship, expressing gratitude for the government and people of China for the kind support rendered to the people of the Federal Republic of Somalia.
Government ministers also expressed their feelings on this anniversary during the event.
“China-Somalia relations are more significant, share culture, trade and people to people exchanges. Chinese Government carried out key projects in Somalia like 900 Km road from Beledweyne town in central Somalia to Burco town northwest, National Stadium, theater and Benadir hospital”, Somali Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism, Osman Abukar Dubbe said.
On his side, Chinese Ambassador to Somalia, Qin Jian recounted the history of friendship and diplomatic relations between the two countries and read congratulatory messages from Chinese President Xi Jinping and Foreign Ministry on the establishment of the 60th anniversary.
“China attaches great importance of the development of relations with Somalia”, Mr. Jian said.
He said China and Somalia should understand and support each other on issues concerning sovereignty, security and development interests of the two countries and actively promote bilateral exchanges and cooperation in various fields.
Mr. Jian added that his government will continue to provide government scholarships, the humanitarian and development assistance to Somalia.
Somalia and China made their diplomatic ties on December 14, 1960, five months after Somalia’s independence and Somalia supported China in gaining Chinese legal seat from the United Nations.
By Mohamed Osman
