China Expresses Support for Somalia’s Sovereignty amidst Port Deal Dispute with Ethiopia

China has voiced its support for the “sovereignty and territorial integrity” of Somalia as the nation finds itself embroiled in a dispute with Ethiopia over a port deal with the breakaway region of Somaliland. Mao Ning, spokeswoman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, issued a statement on Thursday reaffirming China’s commitment to upholding the principles of the UN Charter.

“China stands for upholding the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and supports countries in safeguarding sovereignty and territorial integrity,” stated Mao Ning during a press briefing. She further emphasized, “Somaliland is part of Somalia.”
The ongoing tension stems from Ethiopia’s signing of a sea access deal with Somaliland, a region that declared its independence but is not internationally recognized as a separate state.
Somalia has categorically rejected the Red Sea port deal, branding it as “illegitimate” and a direct challenge to good neighborly relations, while also alleging a violation of its sovereignty. In response to the announcement of the deal, Somalia recalled its ambassador to Ethiopia.
Ethiopia, however, defended its decision to engage with Somaliland, asserting that the agreement “will affect no party or country.” The deal, which grants Ethiopia access to a Red Sea port in Somaliland, is seen as a strategic move that provides Ethiopia with a permanent and reliable naval base as well as commercial maritime services in the Gulf of Aden.