MOGADISHU (SD) – Somalia and China have agreed to enhance their bilateral relations following a meeting between State Minister for Foreign Affairs and the Chinese ambassador in Mogadishu.

In a statement, Somali ministry for foreign affairs said Minister Balal Mohamed Cusman and Ambassador Qin Jian discussed the strengthening of bilateral relations and joint cooperation between the two countries.

The minister has affirmed his country’s determination to strengthen bilateral cooperation, investment relations and partnership in areas of added value.

He thanked the Chinese good stances and their firm support in the institutions of Somali government, noting that Somalia supports the one-China Principle and one-China Policy.

For his part, the Chinese ambassador affirmed that China respects the sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of Somalia.

He also noted his country’s keenness to develop its relations and cooperation with Somalia to enhance partnership and coordinate international efforts and stances.