China Reaffirms Backing for Somalia’s Territorial Integrity
In a telephone exchange with Somali Foreign Minister Abdisalam Dhaay, Wang emphasized the enduring bond between Beijing and Mogadishu, pledging unwavering support for the East African nation's sovereignty, the Chinese Foreign Ministry announced in an official statement.
"We will consistently support Somalia in safeguarding its national sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, and oppose Somaliland's collusion with the Taiwan authorities in seeking independence," Wang said.
The Chinese Foreign Minister further stressed that Beijing's commitment to expanding collaboration with Somalia across economic, security, and defense domains remains steadfast despite shifting global dynamics.
Minister Dhaay expressed gratitude for China's backing in defending Somalia's sovereign rights and territorial boundaries, combating separatist movements and terrorism, while promoting national stability and economic progress.
Wang's statements follow Israel's December 26 announcement formally recognizing Somaliland as an independent sovereign nation—making it the sole country to extend such recognition. The decision triggered widespread regional condemnation.
Since its 1991 unilateral independence declaration from Somalia, Somaliland has functioned as a self-administering territory without achieving international recognition as a sovereign state.
The Chinese diplomat reached Lesotho, concluding his six-day New Year African tour, though his scheduled Somalia visit was delayed. While official explanations remain undisclosed, a Chinese Embassy spokesperson in Somalia indicated the postponement resulted from amicable diplomatic consultations between both foreign ministries, media reported.
In a separate conversation, Wang engaged with South Africa's Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola, advocating for reinforced multilateral frameworks, enhanced South-South partnerships, and expanded China–South Africa strategic cooperation encompassing trade growth, cultural exchanges, and continental development support, media reported.
Lamola expressed appreciation for China's assistance with South Africa's upcoming G20 Leaders' Summit hosting responsibilities, reiterated support for the one-China principle, and affirmed Pretoria's readiness to collaborate with Beijing in championing multilateralism, preserving the United Nations' central authority, and protecting international equity and justice.
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
