This archive report was first published on 13 January 2020.
China's stance on the UN Security Council seat has left Kenya and Djibouti in a state of uncertainty, with Beijing diplomats maintaining a policy of neutrality in the political duel.
Just days ago, Chinese Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi visited Djibouti, where he met with President Ismail Guelleh and promised to advance the country's relations to a 'strategic level.'
According to a statement from Mr Guelleh's office, Mr Yi pledged to maintain a 'win-win partnership,' a traditional mantra of China's foreign policy.
However, the statement also suggested that Beijing had pledged to back Djibouti's bid for the top seat, with Mr Guelleh's office stating that China's readiness to lend its support was in line with diplomatic ethics based on the principle of equity between all nations.
Mr Yi's itinerary for his annual Africa trip also included visits to Eritrea, Zimbabwe, and Egypt, where he met with various officials to discuss bilateral relations and regional cooperation.
Kenya, which won the African Union's endorsement to contest the non-permanent UN Security Council seat last year, has been engaged in a parallel campaign to secure the seat, with Djibouti rescinding its concession and launching a direct bid to UN members.
China's support for the two countries has been a subject of speculation, with Beijing diplomats maintaining a policy of neutrality in the political duel.
However, the Chinese Foreign ministry spokesperson in Beijing, Geng Shuang, is expected to clarify the country's position on the issue next week.
