Chinese Diplomat Encourages Somali Groups to Remain Dedicated to Dialogue for Settling Disputes
Dai Bing, China’s deputy permanent representative at the UN (Photo: Foreign Ministry official website)
On Thursday, a Chinese delegate appealed for Somali factions to maintain the progress by fostering dialogue and unity. They should remain dedicated to resolving their disputes through amicable discussion.
During a UN Security Council meeting concerning Somalia, Dai Bing, China’s deputy envoy to the United Nations, acknowledged Somalia’s significant achievements in national rebuilding and peace initiatives. He pointed out that both the UN and African Union (AU) missions are now at a pivotal transition.
“This crucial phase demands unwavering international outreach and support,” Dai declared.
He highlighted three essentials: preserving political equilibrium, reinforcing security transition foundations, and facilitating a structured transition for the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM).
Noting that Somalia’s federal administration has effectively communicated with various federal state governments, and has reached key agreements on constitutional matters, elections, and political factions, the ambassador remarked, “We hope all Somali factions sustain their stride, engage in dialogue, and commit to reconciling their differences through conversation.”
Dai emphasized China’s unwavering support for Somalia’s endeavors in protecting its unity, sovereignty, and territorial wholeness. He also called for global support to aid Somalia in finding a development path aligned with its national context, laying the groundwork for its long-term stability and growth.
He mentioned that in the upcoming phase, the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) will evolve into a fresh AU mission. Dai expressed optimism that Somalia, the AU, the UN, and other key stakeholders will enhance their dialogue and cooperation to finalize new mission frameworks, ensuring seamless task completion.
“Insufficient funding presents a significant hurdle for AU missions in fulfilling their mandates,” he noted, urging the European Union and other traditional patrons to keep their financial assistance for the new mission to maintain Somalia’s security and stability. Dai also implored the Security Council to heed the AU’s proposals and diligently explore different viable funding solutions to guarantee consistent and dependable financial backing for the new mission.
Pointing out that the Somali government has consistently advocated for transforming UNSOM into a UN country team and has recently proposed a two-year transitional plan to the Security Council, the envoy urged the council to use this as a framework. Aligning with Somalia’s national progress goals, they should refine and streamline UNSOM’s directives to ensure a seamless transition.
“China endorses Somalia’s peace and growth journey, as well as bolstering Somalia’s capacity for self-driven advancement, anti-terrorism efforts, and stability. We will continue supporting international peacekeeping undertakings in Somalia,” Dai affirmed.
Edited by: Ali Musa
Axadle international–Monitoring
