Djibouti and China have signed a new agreement on economic and technical cooperation. The signing ceremony, held in Djibouti City, was attended by Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and China’s Ambassador to Djibouti, Hu Bin.

The agreement, which follows the recent Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit in Beijing, aims to bolster collaboration in key sectors, including infrastructure, trade, and development. This is part of their broader strategic global partnership.

Speaking at the event, Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expressed optimism about the future of Djibouti-China relations, stating:
“As agreed in the recent Beijing summit between our two nations, I am delighted today to move forward with the signing of this new economic and technical cooperation agreement between the Republic of Djibouti and the People’s Republic of China.”

He highlighted the achievements in the bilateral relationship, describing it as a balanced and mutually beneficial partnership. The minister emphasized that Djibouti’s participation in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has enabled the implementation of significant development projects. These projects include port infrastructure, railways, healthcare, education, security, culture, social housing, agriculture, livestock, and skills training. They have been instrumental in advancing Djibouti’s Vision 2035, which seeks to transform the country into a regional hub for trade and logistics.

China’s Ambassador Hu Bin described the agreement as an essential step forward, noting the progress made in their partnership this year. He expressed optimism about the future of their relationship and pledged continued Chinese support for Djibouti’s economic diversification and infrastructure development, aligned with the shared goals of prosperity for both nations.

The signing of this agreement follows the recent FOCAC summit in Beijing, where African and Chinese leaders discussed deepening cooperation in various areas. The new agreement outlines new areas of collaboration, strengthening the strategic partnership between Djibouti and China.

This milestone also coincides with the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Djibouti and China, a partnership that has grown in depth and scope over the decades.

The signing marks another chapter in Djibouti and China’s shared vision of development and mutual success, solidifying their ties as a model of global cooperation.