Defence Minister Meets Chinese Ambassador to Discuss Security and Defence Cooperation

Mogadishu, (SONNA) – The Minister of Defence of the Federal Government of Somalia, H.E. Ahmed Moalim Fiqi, on Monday received China’s Ambassador to Somalia, Wang Yu, at his office in Mogadishu for talks on strengthening bilateral cooperation in defence and security.

The meeting covered recent developments in the defence sector, ongoing operations against terrorist groups, the transition of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), and other issues related to national and regional security.

Minister Fiqi also briefed the ambassador on security concerns involving what he described as plans and activities by foreign actors targeting Somalia’s security and stability. He said the Federal Government was closely monitoring these developments and would not allow such agendas to be pursued in the country.

The minister thanked the Chinese government for its continued support to Somalia and commended Beijing’s position in support of Somalia’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity.

The meeting was attended by Major General Mohamed Ali Barise, Assistant to the General Command of the Somali National Army, and diplomats from the Chinese Embassy in Mogadishu.