Kunming, China – Somalia actively participated in the 2nd China-Indian Ocean Region Forum on Blue Economy Cooperation held in Kunming on December 9, 2023. The nation’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, H.E. Isaak Mohamud Mursal, addressed the forum, highlighting the importance of international collaboration in tackling challenges like overfishing and climate change in the region’s blue economy.
Deputy Minister Mursal expressed gratitude to China for hosting the forum and unveiled Somalia’s national strategy for developing its own blue economy. He further pledged Somalia’s commitment to combating illegal fishing within its territorial waters.
Additionally, Mursal brought attention to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Somalia caused by recent floods, urging international support and assistance to alleviate the suffering of affected communities.
On the sidelines of the forum, Mursal held a bilateral meeting with Mr. Liu Junfeng, Vice-Chairman of the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA). During their discussion, Mr. Liu Junfeng announced China’s commitment to providing additional relief aid to Somalia in response to the devastating floods.