MOGADISHU, Somalia – Somali Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre has left Mogadishu for China to attend the 7th China-Arab States Expo, where he is expected to seek stronger economic and political ties with Beijing.
During the visit, Mr Barre is due to meet senior Chinese officials for talks on trade, investment, and cooperation in areas including infrastructure, agriculture, and technology.
The China-Arab States Expo is a platform designed to promote economic partnerships between China and the Arab world. Somalia’s participation is seen as part of a broader effort by Mogadishu to diversify its alliances and attract foreign investment.
Longstanding Partnership
Before his departure, the prime minister met Chinese Ambassador Wang Yu in Mogadishu. State media reported that Mr Barre thanked Beijing for what he called its “continued support to Somalia in various areas, particularly in politics, security, economic development, and humanitarian assistance.”
Ambassador Wang described relations between the two countries as long-standing and reiterated China’s commitment to support Somalia’s development.
Geopolitical Context
The visit by Somalia’s premier Hamza Abdi Barre comes amid shifting dynamics in the Horn of Africa, where global powers are increasingly vying for influence.
Taiwan has strengthened ties with Somaliland, which declared independence from Somalia in 1991 but is not internationally recognised.
Analysts say the prospect of US recognition of Somaliland, and reports of Washington considering a military presence in Berbera, have further raised the stakes for China and Somalia.
China has consistently backed Somalia’s position on the territorial integrity of the country, opposing any moves that might legitimise Somaliland’s claims.
Mr Barre’s participation in the China-Arab States Expo is expected to highlight Somalia’s alignment with Beijing at a time of growing international competition in the region.
