Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Chinese diplomats in Mogadishu, discussing the country’s security situation and policy towards armed groups fighting in Somalia, such as Al-Shabaab and ISIS.
The meeting focused on how Beijing can strengthen the protection of its citizens in the country, with the minister stating that his government will take every measure to ensure the safety of its personnel and interests in Somalia.
He also stressed the importance of strengthening efforts to combat groups such as Al-Shabaab and the Islamic State.
Meanwhile, officials from the Chinese embassy in Mogadishu briefed the minister on the security situation and activities they are carrying out in the country, noting that they continue to provide support to the Federal Government of Somalia.
The embassy indicated that Beijing will continue to provide equipment and technical support to the Somali National Army, based on the principle of respecting Somalia’s sovereignty and the traditional friendly relations between the two countries.
The visit and talks come as China is seen as increasing its political and economic role in the Horn of Africa. The country, once one of Somalia’s largest economic partners, is now showing increasing interest in security cooperation.
The move comes as Somalia is waging a military campaign against Al-Shabaab and the government seeks more international support.
