China makes monetary donation to AU Somalia mission
The Government of the People’s Republic of China has donated US$1.2 million to support the African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), according to a statement issued Tuesday by the African Union.
The grant documents were signed at AU headquarters on Monday by the Commissioner for Peace and Security, Ambassador Smail Chergui, and China’s Permanent Observer to the African Union, Ambassador Kuang Weilin.
Speaking on the occasion, Commissioner Chergui thanked the Chinese Government for the grant and recalled, with gratitude, that in September 2014, China donated US$2 million to support the AU’s efforts to fight the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, and in January 2015, China again donated US$1.2 million to the AU Peace Fund.
On behalf of the Chairperson of the Commission, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, the Commissioner re-stated Africa’s sincere appreciation for China’s strategic partnership for peace, security and stability in Africa.
“This latest grant will help enhance the heroic efforts of Africa’s soldiers for peace in Somalia,” he added.
On his part, Ambassador Kuang Weilin reassured Commissioner Chergui that China will continue to stand with Africa, as the continent strives to rid itself of conflict and achieve sustainable development and prosperity for its people.
Chergui and Ambassador Kuang exchanged views on a wide range of current peace and security situations and issues in Africa, including international efforts to resolve the conflict in South Sudan.
