A Framework of Mutual Respect and Shared Prosperity
Rooted in a friendship that has lasted over sixty-five years, the strategic partnership between the People’s Republic of China and the Federal Republic of Somalia rests on a solid foundation of mutual respect, non-interference, and a shared aspiration for peace, stability, and development in the Horn of Africa.
In September 2024, during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing, the leaders of China and Somalia jointly announced the elevation of bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership—a historic step that signified deepening political trust and a broadened scope for future cooperation. This high-level political consensus enables both nations to align Somalia’s National Transformation Plan with China’s vision for a community with a shared future for humanity. As the first East African country to establish formal diplomatic ties with the People’s Republic of China in 1960, Somalia holds a unique and honored place in China’s engagement with the continent.
Together We Rise — From Friendship to Action.
Strategic Dialogue: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a phone conversation with his Somali counterpart, Abdisalam Dhaay, reaffirming that the strategic partnership would not be distracted by any single event and deepening cooperation in trade, security, and development.
High-Level Visits: Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre hosted Chinese Ambassador H.E. Wang Yu for talks focused on accelerating cooperation in security, trade, and economic infrastructure. The discussions underscored China’s view of Somalia as a key partner in the Horn of Africa.
Multilateral Coordination: China extended its full support to Somalia as it assumed the rotating presidency of the United Nations Security Council, working together to safeguard international peace and security.
Ministerial Meetings: The two Foreign Ministers met on the sidelines of the 4th China-Africa Economic and Trade Expo (CAETE), where they reaffirmed their commitment to the effective implementation of FOCAC projects focused on tangible outcomes for the Somali people
As Friends of China in Somalia, we are dedicated to supporting and complementing these vital diplomatic channels. We are not a substitute for government policy but a non-governmental partner that works to build understanding and cooperation at the societal level. Our diplomacy-focused activities include:
We facilitate dialogues and workshops that help local communities understand and access the benefits of China-Africa cooperation projects.
We organize cultural exchange programs and professional visits for Somali officials, entrepreneurs, and civil society leaders to China to build lasting networks of trust.
We are creating a platform for Somali graduates of Chinese universities to connect, share knowledge, and apply their skills for national development.
Through our research and publications, we contribute to informed policy discussions on the Sino-Somali relationship, highlighting successes and exploring new avenues for collaboration.
The future of China-Somalia relations is exceptionally bright. With the elevation to a strategic partnership and the ongoing implementation of the Belt and Road Initiative, Somalia is poised to become a key connector between the Indian Ocean, the Arab world, and the rest of Africa. The focus is now on mutual growth, self-reliance, and shared opportunity.
As Dr. Hodan Osman Abdi, Somalia’s Ambassador to China, eloquently stated: “We must take advantage of this moment, to build a future where Somalia is no longer defined by crisis, but by its contributions and potential”. Friends of China in Somalia is committed to walking this path alongside our government partners, ensuring that the fruits of this dynamic partnership reach every Somali citizen.
The enduring friendship, cultivated over more than six decades, continues to evolve, adapting to contemporary global challenges and opportunities. Together, China and Somalia are building a model of South-South cooperation that delivers lasting peace, development, and shared prosperity.
You don’t need to be Somali or Chinese to support us. You just need to believe that friendship across borders can change lives.
Grand plaza , 1st floor, bureau 112
Makka Almukarrama Strt, Hodan Dist., Mogadishu.
contact@friendsofchina.so
061-961-5310
In September 2024, during the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing, the leaders of China and Somalia jointly announced the elevation of bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership—a historic step that signified deepening political trust and a broadened scope for future cooperation. This high-level political consensus enables both nations to align Somalia’s National Transformation Plan with China’s vision for a community with a shared future for humanity. As the first East African country to establish formal diplomatic ties with the People’s Republic of China in 1960, Somalia holds a unique and honored place in China’s engagement with the continent.
The partnership is underpinned by a series of robust political accords, including the Cultural and Educational Cooperation Agreement (1978), multiple bilateral aid agreements, and, most recently, the joint launch of the “Initiative on Helping Africa in Demining” (2024). These enduring agreements form the bedrock for a diverse and dynamic relationship that extends from the highest echelons of government to the lives of ordinary citizens.
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