Somalia reiterates commitment to 'One China policy'

MOGADISHU, Somalia - The Federal Government of Somalia has on Saturday reiterated its commitment to the one-China policy, a day after Beijing warned the country's northern breakaway region of Somaliland against establishing ties with Taiwan, Garowe Online reports.

The Chinese ambassador in Mogadishu Qin Jian held a meeting with President Farmajo at his office in Mogadishu and discussed a range of issues, including the importance of boosting bilateral relations between China and Somalia.

According to a statement released by the office of the president following the talks, the two sides have emphasized the shared vision of respecting each country's sovereignty and territorial integrity, denouncing Taiwan's move to forge ties with Somaliland.

On his part, Mr. Jian has reaffirmed China's commitment to adherence to Somalia's sovereignty and Unity. This comes after Somaliland and Taiwan declared their first relationship, agreeing to set up diplomatic offices each other's territory.

Located north of the country, Somaliland announced unilateral independence from Somalia in 1991, but, the region is yet to be recognized as a "sovereign state" and still considered as part of the Horn of Africa nation by the world.

On Saturday, Taiwan has warmly welcome President Muse Bihi's appointment of Mohamed Omar Hagi Mohamoud as the Somaliland representative to Taipei, saying the decision will make a fine addition to the "country's diplomatic corps".

GAROWE ONLINE