United Nations (TDI): A Chinese diplomat has called on all Somali parties to maintain momentum, strengthen dialogue and unity, and remain committed to resolving their differences through peaceful means.
Speaking at a United Nations Security Council briefing on Somalia, Dai Bing, China’s deputy permanent representative to the UN, highlighted the need for continued international support as the East African nation enters a critical phase in its national reconstruction and security.
“Somalia has made significant progress in recent years in its national reconstruction and in establishing peace and security. The UN and African Union (AU) missions in the country are now at a crucial transition stage,” said Dai.
The Chinese diplomat underscored the importance of maintaining political stability, reinforcing security measures, and advancing the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) transition in an orderly manner.
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He noted that the Somali federal government has engaged in constructive dialogue with regional administrations and has reached key agreements on matters including the constitution, elections, and political parties.
“We expect all Somali parties to keep up the momentum, strengthen dialogue and unity, and stay committed to resolving differences through dialogue,” he added.
Reaffirming China’s support for the Somali government’s efforts to safeguard national unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, Dai urged the international community to back Somalia’s pursuit of a development path that aligns with its unique national context.
He emphasized the need for sustained international assistance to ensure that Somalia remains on the path to long-term stability and development.
Addressing the upcoming transition of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) to a new AU mission, the Chinese diplomat expressed hope that all stakeholders — including Somalia, the AU, and the UN — would enhance communication and coordination to ensure a smooth transition.
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He pointed out that under-funding remains a significant challenge for the AU mission and called on the European Union and other traditional donors to sustain their financial support.
“The Somali government has repeatedly called for UNSOM’s transition to a UN country team and has recently submitted a two-year transition proposal to the Security Council,” Dai noted, calling on the council to align the mission’s mandate with Somalia’s national development priorities to ensure an orderly transition.
China Stands Ready to Support Peace
“China stands ready to support the peace and development process in Somalia and to assist in enhancing the country’s capacity for autonomous development, counter-terrorism, and stability,” he said, pledging continued backing for international peacekeeping operations in the region.
The diplomat’s comments come as Somalia, with the backing of international stakeholders, continues its efforts towards achieving lasting peace and stability amidst ongoing security challenges.
