MOGADISHU, Somalia — Somalia’s Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre on Tuesday joined senior officials, diplomats and community leaders at a reception in Mogadishu marking 65 years of diplomatic relations between Somalia and China, a partnership leaders from both sides described as enduring and increasingly significant.
The event, hosted by the Chinese Embassy, brought together members of the federal government, the diplomatic corps and prominent figures from across Somali society, highlighting the breadth of engagement between the two countries since ties were first established in 1960.
In remarks at the ceremony, Somali Foreign Minister Abdisalam Abdi Ali Dhaay called the anniversary more than a symbolic milestone, framing it as a reaffirmation of the two nations’ shared commitment to cooperation, knowledge exchange and mutual development.
“This long-standing relationship continues to grow in importance as the regional and global landscape evolves,” the foreign minister said, pointing to collaboration across political, economic and development sectors.
Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre, speaking later at the reception, praised Beijing’s consistent support for Somalia, particularly during periods of hardship. He highlighted China’s recent $1 million humanitarian contribution to assist drought-affected communities, describing the aid as timely as the country grapples with the impact of climate shocks.
Somalia has faced recurring droughts in recent years, straining livelihoods and humanitarian services across large parts of the country. The prime minister said international partnerships remain crucial as the government works to strengthen resilience and accelerate recovery.
China has been a long-standing diplomatic and development partner of Somalia, with cooperation spanning infrastructure, health, education and humanitarian assistance. Officials at the event emphasized that the 65-year relationship provides a foundation for deeper engagement in the years ahead, particularly as Somalia continues its state-building and economic reform efforts.
The anniversary reception concluded with calls from both sides to further expand cooperation, underscoring a shared message that the Somalia–China partnership remains anchored in mutual respect and long-term strategic interests.
