The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Somalia, Ahmed Macallin Fiqi, gave a speech today at the 10th ministerial meeting of the Arab-China Cooperation Forum, he spoke in depth about the historical relationship between China and the Arab countries.
Minister Fiqi emphasized that Somalia is the first country in East Africa to have diplomatic relations with China, and he stated that Somalia is committed to enhancing cooperation with China.
He stressed the importance of this cooperation to achieve common economic benefits, showing that Somalia truly supports the principle of one China and that Taiwan is recognized as an important part of China, pointing out that there is a need to respect China’s political independence.
The minister called for the implementation of the provisions of the Sino-Arab summit and the Riyadh statement, stressing that they have the potential to enhance economic cooperation and investment. He pointed out the important role that economic groups play in global challenges such as food shortages.
In order to strengthen China-Arab relations, Minister Fiqi pointed out the most important areas to focus on. He highlighted China’s Belt and Road Initiative as a transformative opportunity, calling for it to align with Arab development strategies to promote infrastructure projects, trade routes and economic integration. In addition, he proposed initiatives to exchange academics, technology, culture and tourism to strengthen that relationship.
Also, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Somalia, Ahmed Macallin Fiqi, in his speech condemned Ethiopia’s attempt to interfere in the internal affairs of Somalia, referring to the agreement that Ethiopia entered into with Somaliland, and described the agreement as part of It is the desire of Ethiopia to reach a port in Somaliland, stressing that such actions are a violation of Somalia’s independence and disrupt the stability of the region. He warned that these activities are a threat to the security of the Arabs, the region and the world.
Minister Ahmed Macallin Fiqi, in his speech also stated that Somalia welcomes Chinese and Arab companies to invest in the promising opportunities in the Somali market in the areas of livestock, agriculture, fishing and renewable energy. Strengthening peace, and the recent achievements of the country, he said, will enable Somalia to provide, essential services, and remove barriers to development and prosperity.
