Beijing, China – Ambassador Awale Kullane, the Somali Ambassador to China, delivered an insightful and forward-looking speech today at the Fengtai District Foreign Cooperation and Development Forum. The event, held in the multi-functional hall A of the National Convention Center, was part of the 2023 China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) and brought together distinguished guests, government officials, and business leaders.
In his address, Ambassador Kullane began by congratulating the organizers on the successful convening of CIFTIS 2023 and emphasized its role as a platform fostering global cooperation among governments, organizations, and enterprises.
He then outlined the potential areas for collaboration between Somalia and China, underscoring the significance of infrastructure development, energy sector cooperation, agricultural advancement, education, and trade and investment. Key points from Ambassador Kullane’s speech included:
Infrastructure Development: Somalia seeks substantial infrastructural enhancements, and China’s expertise in construction and engineering can play a pivotal role in modernizing the nation’s infrastructure, ultimately boosting economic growth and trade.
Energy Sector: Ambassador Kullane highlighted Somalia’s natural resources, including potential oil and gas reserves, as opportunities for Chinese companies to assist in their extraction and sustainable utilization. Such cooperation would enhance economic benefits, energy security, and self-sufficiency for Somalia.
Agriculture: Somalia’s agricultural sector presents growth potential, and collaboration with China in terms of techniques, machinery, and knowledge transfer can empower Somali farmers to enhance productivity, food security, and global market access.
Education and Capacity Building: Strengthening education and capacity building was deemed essential for Somalia’s long-term development. China can offer scholarships, exchange programs, and training opportunities to Somali students and professionals, enabling them to contribute to sustainable development across various sectors.
Trade and Investment: Ambassador Kullane emphasized the importance of dismantling trade barriers and facilitating investment cooperation. Increased bilateral trade and Chinese investment in sectors such as infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing, and telecommunications can stimulate economic growth and job creation within Somalia.
Ambassador Kullane closed his address by expressing his wishes for the event’s success and reiterating Somalia’s commitment to building a prosperous future with the support of the Chinese government and enterprises.
The speech was met with warm applause from the attendees, reflecting the mutual interest in strengthening ties between Somalia and China. This diplomatic engagement serves as a testament to the growing collaboration and partnership between the two nations and their shared commitment to mutual development.
The Embassy of The Federal Republics of Somalia in Beijing extends its appreciation to the Fengtai District government for hosting this event and looks forward to further deepening bilateral relations with China.
