Somali president hails China's longstanding support at UN

China

Somali president hails China's longstanding support at UN

2025-12-20 17:43 Last Updated At：21:07

Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud has expressed deep gratitude for China's steadfast support at the United Nations Security Council and called for strengthened coordination between the two countries.

China was among the first countries to recognize Somalia's independence, while Somalia was the first East African nation to establish diplomatic ties with China in 1960.

Since the outbreak of a civil war in 1990, Somalia has grappled with instability. Mohamud is currently serving a historic tenure as the first Somali president to be elected twice. Following an initial term from 2012 to 2017, a period marking a breakthrough in the country's peace process. He won the presidency again in May 2022.

In a recent interview with China Media Group aired on Friday, Mohamud shed his light on how to enhance cooperation in international affairs and addressing current global challenges between his country and China, a permanent member of the UN Security Council.

"First of all, we are very much grateful for China's support of Somalia in the difficult years that we were out of the international arena. We were not there, but China was always supporting Somalia, and to join the UN Security Council itself has come through support from our international partners, where China and other 'Big Five' together, China was supportive of Somalia in general. When it comes to China, we have certain commonalities, common principles. And we have some challenges that we have to face that make us work together and support each other," said the president.

East China county sees arrivals of over 10,000 swans for wintering

As temperatures drop in the north hemisphere, large flocks of swans have migrated from the colder north to Jinxian County of Nanchang City in warmer east China's Jiangxi Province to tide over the winter.

This year, thanks to the improved environment, over 10,000 swans have arrived in the vast stretches of wetlands in the county, according to staff of the local forestry bureau.

These beautiful creatures have attracted many birdwatchers, residents, and visitors eager to capture the scene.

"I have been coming here to photograph birds for 12 consecutive years. Each year, I have different experiences in bird photography. Over recent years, I've felt that the ecological system in Jinxian has improved significantly, and the varieties of migratory birds have also increased. This change is a result of everyone's efforts to protect and love birds. Every time I see a stunning scene, my mood is different," said Fan Zheping, a birdwatcher.

Not far from the site, Nanchang City has built a natural education and science popularization base featuring specimen displays, immersive VR experiences, and 3D video presentations.

"Such an immersive experience is not only particularly novel and interesting, but also deepens our understanding of the importance of protecting migratory bird habitats and safeguarding nature," said Luo Canqi, a local pupil.