Hangzhou, (SONNA) – The Federal Republic of Somalia’s Ambassador to China, Dr. Hodan Osman Abdi, accompanied by the Embassy’s Commercial Attaché Mr. Guled Warsame, paid an official visit to the headquarters of global e-commerce giant Alibaba Group in Hangzhou, China.
The visit formed part of the Embassy’s ongoing efforts to deepen strategic cooperation between Somalia and China, with a focus on expanding digital trade, promoting modern technology services, and enhancing employment opportunities for Somali youth.
During the high-level meeting, Ambassador Hodan presented Somalia’s National Transformation Plan—a forward-looking strategy aimed at advancing social development, economic growth, and public service delivery. She emphasized the plan’s commitment to digital transformation, investment promotion, and modernizing Somalia’s business infrastructure.
Discussions centered around three key areas:
- FinTech – exploring the use of financial technology to streamline and secure cross-border transactions between Somalia and China;
- Logistics – highlighting Somalia’s strategic geographic position as a potential hub for serving various African markets;
- Youth Training – developing programs to equip Somali youth with e-commerce skills to unlock modern employment and business opportunities.
Ambassador Hodan thanked Alibaba’s senior leadership for their warm hospitality and their keen interest in Somalia’s transformation. She encouraged the company to extend its advanced services to Somalia, strengthening bilateral trade and fostering inclusive economic growth.
