Geneva, Switzerland – At the ongoing Fifth Session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution (#INC5), Somalia and China have reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing sustainable development and climate action.

Lt. Gen. Minister Bashir Mohamed Jama, leading Somalia’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change delegation, met with Vice Minister Gao Li of China’s Ministry of Ecology and Environment to strengthen bilateral cooperation on green growth and environmental resilience.

The talks focused on enhancing China–Somalia collaboration in green development and expanding South–South partnerships, with both sides agreeing to step up technical assistance, knowledge exchange, and project support in climate adaptation and environmental protection.

A key highlight of the discussion was a joint pledge to intensify action against plastic pollution — one of the most pressing environmental threats globally. Somalia emphasized the urgent need for capacity building, especially in waste management, clean energy, and conservation programs, to combat the impacts of climate change and environmental degradation.

Lt. Gen. Jama underscored the fact that Somalia “deeply values China’s continued support,” citing China’s role in building institutional capacity and providing practical solutions for environmental challenges facing developing nations.

The meeting comes as global negotiators in Geneva work to finalize a legally binding agreement to end plastic pollution, a move that could have transformative effects on coastal and climate-vulnerable nations like Somalia.

By aligning their strategies and resources, Somalia and China aim to contribute meaningfully to global climate targets while promoting sustainable livelihoods at home.