Beijing has waded into the territorial tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia over a strategic port deal. In a statement, China voiced support for Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Speaking at a press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized Somalia's sovereign claim over the breakaway region of Somaliland. She said "China upholds the UN Charter's principles of respecting states' borders and independence."
Mao's comments touch on the key issue fueling the diplomatic row - Ethiopia's agreement with Somaliland to develop a naval facility and commercial hub on Somalia's northern coastline.
“Somaliland is part of Somalia,” said Mao.
Somalia views the pact as an infringement on its control over Somaliland.
The port access is seen as an important step for landlocked Ethiopia since it lost its own coastal ports after Eritrea gained independence in 1991.
However, Somalia has recalled its ambassador from Addis Ababa, accusing Ethiopia of undermining regional stability.
Somalia President Hassan Mohamed yesterday said Ethiopia will be to blame if the old enmity between Somalia and Ethiopia revives.
“The day they [Ethiopia] take one action step, we’ll take two, three, four....they cannot blame us and the international community cannot blame us. They cannot say ‘why did the Somali government took this decision,’” he said at a mosque in Mogadishu.
While not taking sides, China encouraged neighboring states to resolve their differences diplomatically. Mao said friendly cooperation is needed for shared development.
“China supports the federal government of Somalia in safeguarding national unity, sovereignty and territorial integrity,” added Mao.
