Mogadishu(SONNA)-A high-level roundtable meeting aimed at deepening cooperation between Somalia and China was held on Sunday at the Decale Hotel in Mogadishu under the theme “Mutual Support and Joint Efforts — Strengthen China–Somalia Cooperation.”
The event, organized by the Chinese Embassy in Somalia, brought together senior Somali government officials, scholars, researchers, and media representatives to discuss opportunities for closer collaboration between the two nations. Participants included Deputy Minister of Health Mohamed Hassan Mohamed, State Minister of Family and Human Rights Mohamed Osman Omar, and former Deputy Prime Minister Mahdi Mohamed Gulaid, along with officials from the Ministries of Information, Foreign Affairs, and Fisheries.
Representatives from the Management Institute for National Development (MIND) and the state-run media also attended.
In his opening remarks, Chargé d’Affaires Chen Wendi of the Chinese Embassy praised the “productive and meaningful” discussions, describing the roundtable as “a very successful event” that reaffirmed the long-standing friendship between Somalia and China.
Speakers emphasized the three key features of China–Somalia relations:
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Mutual support in safeguarding national unity and territorial integrity, and a joint commitment to counter secessionism and disinformation.
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Expanding cooperation opportunities through China’s ongoing high-quality development and high-standard opening up, as outlined in the 15th Five-Year Plan.
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Enhanced trade benefits through China’s zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent of tariff lines, promoting Somalia’s exports and economic growth.
State Minister Mohamed Osman Omar highlighted the importance of pragmatic cooperation rooted in tangible results that improve people’s lives.
“China has been a true friend and partner to Somalia for decades,” he said. “Our partnership must continue to deliver real outcomes for our citizens through shared development, social progress, and human capacity building.”
He noted that Somalia could learn from China’s success in poverty reduction, education, and women’s empowerment to strengthen its own social welfare systems.
Deputy Minister of Health Mohamed Hassan Mohamed emphasized that Somalia and China enjoy a long and fruitful friendship, describing China as an “old African friend.” He called for “cooperation with purpose, partnership with results, and friendship with impact.”
Following the ministers’ remarks, former Deputy Prime Minister Mahdi Mohamed Gulaid commended China’s consistent support to Somalia, particularly in education, infrastructure, and technical training. He said the partnership should continue to focus on results-driven collaboration that advances national development and mutual prosperity.
The roundtable coincided with the 64th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Somalia and China, marking another milestone in their enduring partnership. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen cooperation in economic, social, and cultural fields to build a shared future of peace and progress.
