China’s Foreign Minister puts Somalia visit on hold

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi has launched his annual New Year tour of Africa, beginning this week with a visit to Ethiopia, as Beijing seeks to strengthen diplomatic ties and expand economic cooperation across the continent.

The trip officially kicked off in Ethiopia, where Wang met with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister, Gedion Timothewos Hessebon. During the meetings, Prime Minister Abiy highlighted the long-standing relationship between the two countries, which was recently upgraded to an “all-weather strategic cooperation partnership.” Discussions focused on development initiatives and reaffirming mutual commitments to economic growth and political cooperation.

Wang Yi and Foreign Minister Gedion pledged to further enhance bilateral cooperation and deepen strategic coordination at multiple levels, underscoring China’s continued engagement with Ethiopia as a key regional partner.

The tour was scheduled to include visits to Somalia, Tanzania, and Lesotho. However, Wang Yi’s expected visit to Mogadishu on Friday was postponed.

Reports initially circulated suggesting the postponement was “due to security concerns.” These claims were later dismissed by officials from Somalia’s government and the Chinese Embassy in Mogadishu. Somali Foreign Ministry officials, speaking to Reuters, stated that the official reason for the postponement and a new schedule for Wang’s visit would be announced at a later date.

In a statement, the Chinese Embassy in Mogadishu said the change was due to scheduling adjustments agreed upon through “friendly negotiations” between the foreign ministries of China and Somalia. The statement noted that China had adjusted the itinerary of the visit by Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China’s Central Committee.

The visit was expected to reinforce Mogadishu’s diplomatic standing amid shifting regional dynamics, including Israel’s recognition of Somaliland and the growing relationship between Taiwan and Somaliland since 2020. China has consistently maintained its support for Somalia’s territorial sovereignty, aligning firmly with Mogadishu’s position on Somaliland.