Xi “role model” for developing countries, says Somalia’s President

Somalia’s president, Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, has given an exclusive interview to China Global Television Network (CGTN) where he discussed the evolving relationship between Somalia and China. President Mohamud applauded the bilateral ties, describing them as “linear” and free of turbulence. He praised China’s support for Somalia, both in humanitarian assistance and in diplomatic forums such as the United Nations.

Strikingly, President Mohamud showered praise on China’s strongman leader, Xi Jinping, commending both his leadership style and global influence. “President Xi is a very strong leader,” Mohamud remarked, noting that he felt proud to have met him twice in recent years. He went on to say that Xi’s leadership “has proven to be very effective,” applauding him for guiding China “on the right path toward prosperity, which the Chinese people are enjoying today.”

Calling Xi “a role model for many people and many countries in the developing world,” Mohamud stressed that the so‑called “China way” was being pursued under Xi’s stewardship. The Somalia’s president also highlighted Beijing’s recent assistance, adding: “His support to Somalia in the security sector is highly appreciated. I am truly grateful for him and for what he has done for Somalia.”

The president also noted the “commonality” between the two countries, particularly their shared respect for “territorial sovereignty.” He highlighted Somalia’s support for the “One China Policy,” noting that it aligns with Somalia’s own stance “on national unity and sovereignty.”

These remarks come at a time when Taiwan and Somaliland have been strengthening ties, both seeking independence and international recognition. Over the past five years, Taiwan and Somaliland have explored strategic ventures, including a recent agreement on maritime security. China has made clear its opposition to this relationship, and Somalia has echoed that position.

While President Mohamud praised China’s leadership as a “model,” the two countries differ distinctly in their political systems. Since the fall of Somalia’s military dictatorship in 1991 and the eventual re-establishment of governance after years of state collapse, Somalia has chosen a representative democratic system. It has held several indirect elections, through which Mohamud most recently returned to power.

By contrast, China’s electoral process and political order operates under the dominance of the Communist Party of China (CPC). Ordinary citizens vote only for representatives at the township and county levels. These local congresses then select delegates to higher tiers, culminating in the National People’s Congress (NPC), the country’s top legislature. While the NPC formally votes on senior officials such as the President and Premier, candidates are vetted and approved by the CPC beforehand, ensuring the Party’s control. Rural villages also hold direct elections for committees, though Party oversight remains strong. In essence, elections exist, but the CPC maintains decisive control over political power.

Despite these differences, Mohamud’s latest remarks signal deepening ties between Somalia and China. Both countries see common interests and shared concerns, particularly regarding what they perceive as challenges to their sovereignty amid Taiwan–Somaliland cooperation. This issue has also drawn attention from U.S. Republican lawmakers critical of China, including Senator Ted Cruz, who view Taiwan–Somaliland ties as part of the broader geopolitical contest with Beijing.