Xi Jinping Meets with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud

On the afternoon of December 9, 2022 local time, President Xi Jinping met with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud in Riyadh.

Xi Jinping pointed out that the Chinese side has always supported Somalia in safeguarding its sovereignty, dignity and territorial integrity, provided long-term support for the African Union Mission in Somalia and actively encouraged the international community to support and help Somalia. China is ready to work with Somalia to maintain political mutual trust, understand and support each other on issues concerning their respective core interests and major concerns, elevate China-Somalia relations to new levels and jointly safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of developing countries. China stands ready to provide assistance to the best of its ability for Somalia's reconstruction and social and economic development, and encourages the two countries' enterprises to explore cooperation in areas including agriculture, fishery and health. China supports the Somali government in enhancing its ability to maintain stability and fight terrorism.

Mohamud thanked President Xi Jinping for meeting with him despite the tight schedule. Mohamud said that Somalia-China relations enjoy a long history, and since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1960, bilateral relations have always been based on mutual understanding and mutual respect. The Chinese side has helped Somalia build its longest highway, hospitals and other important facilities for people's daily lives, and Somalia hopes for continued support from China for safeguarding national security and rebuilding the national economy. Somalia firmly adheres to the one-China policy, remains an important strategic partner of China, and will continue to stand firmly with China and support China in safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity. Somalia looks forward to joining China in keeping advancing the development of bilateral relations.

Ding Xuexiang, Wang Yi and He Lifeng, among others, were present at the event.