The Chinese government has donated military equipment to Somalia to support the African nation’s battle against terrorism.
Military vehicles, including armored personnel carriers for the Somali National Army, arrived in Mogadishu on Friday, according to a report by All Africa, citing Somali news organization Shabelle Media Network.
The Chinese Ambassador to Somalia, Fei Shengchao, also turned over water trucks, landmine detectors, ambulances, and other equipment to the country’s defense minister.
According to Chinese representatives, the military hardware is being given to the Somali armed forces for use in fighting terrorist groups, particularly Al-Shabaab, which has carried out attacks in Somalia and neighboring countries.
“The vehicles will be used by the Somali National Army and that China and Somalia have a deep relationship, thanking them for their support to the Armed Forces,” Somali Defense Minister Abdikadir Mohamed Nur Jama was quoted as saying.
Terror Attacks Surge
Somali armed forces commander General Odowa Yusuf Rage said that China’s military support has arrived in a “timely manner” since terror attacks surged in Somalia a few weeks before March presidential elections.
Last month, an attack took place in Mogadishu targeting Somaliland election delegates.
The United Nations secretary-general said in a recent report that several pro-Islamic State groups have carried out attacks on the Somali military and a market.
“Al-Shabab appears emboldened by its determination to disrupt the ongoing electoral process,” African Union Commission for Somalia special representative Francisco Madeira said, as quoted by Voice of America.
Rage revealed that China would deliver more military equipment to Mogadishu. However, he did not provide specific details.
