Facebook Twitter (X) Instagram Somali Magazine - People's Magazine
China has reiterated its unwavering support for Somalia’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity following reports of a senior Taiwanese official attending Somaliland’s presidential inauguration. The development has drawn Beijing’s ire, highlighting tensions surrounding international recognition of Somaliland and Taiwan.
China’s Statement on Somalia’s Sovereignty
Speaking in Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning reaffirmed China’s commitment to the “One-China principle” and praised Somalia’s adherence to it. “China highly appreciates the Somali government’s adherence to the one-China principle and firmly supports Somalia in defending its national sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Mao stated, as reported by Global Times.
Mao condemned the visit of Taiwan’s Deputy Foreign Minister Francois Wu to Somaliland, where he is scheduled to attend the inauguration of Somaliland’s president-elect, Abdirahman Mohamed Abdullahi, and meet outgoing President Muse Bihi Abdi. Beijing views this move as a breach of international norms.
Taiwan’s Presence in Somaliland
Taipei has sought to strengthen its ties with Somaliland, a self-declared independent region of Somalia. Wu’s visit signals continued cooperation between the two entities, which Beijing opposes. Taiwan considers Somaliland a key partner in Africa, but its engagements are controversial due to Somaliland’s lack of formal international recognition.
China, which views Taiwan as a breakaway province, has consistently opposed any diplomatic ties between Taipei and Somaliland. “China firmly opposes any official exchanges or the establishment of official institutions between the authorities of the island of Taiwan and Somaliland,” Mao added, urging all parties to align with the broader diplomatic consensus.
Background: Ethiopia-Somaliland Port Deal
The backdrop to these developments includes ongoing tensions in the Horn of Africa, particularly after Ethiopia’s January 2024 deal to utilize Somaliland’s Red Sea port of Berbera. The deal strained relations with Somalia, which views Somaliland as a breakaway region.
Türkiye has been mediating to reduce tensions, leading to the recently signed Ankara Declaration between Somalia and Ethiopia, aimed at reaffirming their territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Regional Implications
China’s statement underscores its broader strategic interests in Africa, where it maintains significant economic and political influence. Beijing’s explicit support for Somalia is consistent with its stance against separatism and its efforts to counter Taiwan’s international outreach.
Simultaneously, Somaliland’s growing engagement with Taiwan adds another layer of complexity to the region’s dynamics. Both Beijing and Mogadishu are likely to intensify diplomatic measures to counter such developments.
Conclusion
China’s reaction to the Taiwanese visit to Somaliland reflects broader geopolitical tensions involving sovereignty and international recognition. As Somalia continues to assert its territorial integrity with international support, the Horn of Africa remains a focal point for diplomatic maneuvering.