WASHINGTON (SD) – The Prime Minister of the Federal Republic of Somalia Mohamed Hussein Roble received in his office the new Chinese Special Envoy to the Horn of Africa Xue Bing.

The two leaders discussed strengthening ties between the two countries, and the prime minister called on the Chinese government to help with the drought in the country.

Xue Bing and his delegation pledged to play a leading role in the country’s humanitarian affairs and to respond to the government’s call.

The Chinese government is outraged by diplomatic relations between Somaliland and Taiwan, leading to the appointment of the the Horn of Africa envoy.

The meeting comes at a critical time, with the United States and China vying for greater influence in the Horn of Africa.