Riyadh Hosts the 6th Ethiopia-Saudi Arabia Joint Commission Meeting
Pakistani Delegation Explores Investment Opportunities in Ethiopia
Ethiopia, Turkiye Conduct Business Forum and their 7th Political Consultation
Juba Hosts Ethiopia-South Sudan Business and Investment Forum
NEWS IN BRIEF
President Sahle-Work Zewde bid farewell to the outgoing Ghanaian Ambassador, Amma Twum-Amoah, on Monday (May 27). The president thanked the ambassador for her contribution to strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries during her six-year tenure.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced on Sunday (May 26) that preparations for this year’s Green Legacy planting season are in full swing. Efforts include the preparation of planting sites and the continuous cultivation of seedlings. This annual program, aimed at promoting environmental sustainability, combating climate change, reversing deforestation and reducing land degradation, involves communities, schools, and organizations working together to plant billions of trees.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie, held a productive discussion with Ramiz Alakbarov, the UN Assistant Secretary General and Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, in his office on Tuesday (May 28). During their conversation, the Foreign Minister and the Resident Coordinator exchanged views on how to reposition the UN system in support of national development plans. They also held a constructive discussion on further strengthening the partnership and collaboration between the UN and Ethiopia to promote national development endeavors and address humanitarian situations.
Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie, conveyed his 2024 Africa Day message on Saturday (May 25), emphasizing the importance of maintaining the spirit of Pan-Africanism now more than ever. He highlighted that Pan-Africanism is a monumental idea that supports collective aspirations for self-reliance and regional integration, serving as a formidable foundation for a truly global partnership.
The Ethiopia-Turkiye Business and Investment Forum took place on Monday (May 27) at MÜSİAD Headquarters in Istanbul. The event saw the participation of Turkey’s Deputy Minister of Commerce, Mustafa Tuzcu and Ethiopia’s State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mesganu Arega. In related news, Ethiopia and Turkiye have also conducted their 7th political consultation in Ankara (See article).
State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Ambassador Birtukan Ayano, launched Ethio-Pakistan Business Forum, held under the motto “Connecting Historic Countries through Trade and Investment,” in Addis Ababa on Monday (May 27). Following the business forum, Pakistan’s trade and investment delegation visited Bole Lemi, Qilinto and Adama Industrial Parks on Tuesday (May 28). The delegation also planted seedlings as a symbolic gesture to foster the relationship between the two nations as part of the Green Legacy Initiative in Adama City. (See article)
The 6th Ethio-Saudi Arabian Joint Commission Meeting was held from May 21 to 22, 2024, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh. The Ethiopian delegation was headed by Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia and Abdulrahman A. Alfadely, Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. (See article)
Ethiopia’s candidate, Imeru Tamerat Yigezu, has been re-elected to the Human Rights Committee at the 40th meeting of States Parties of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights on Wednesday (May 29). In related news, Ethiopia’s candidate, Professor Benyam Dawit, was re-elected to the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child at the 20th Meeting of the State Parties held in New York on May 23.
An International Construction Exhibition named “Big 5 Construct Ethiopia” is currently taking place in Addis Ababa for the second round, starting from Wednesday (May 29) to Saturday (June 1), the Ministry of Urban and Infrastructure announced. The exhibition brings together local and international construction companies and professionals at the Millennium Hall in Addis Ababa, showcasing cutting-edge products. Business networking and discussions are part of the exhibition.
Boeing is set to open its African headquarters in Ethiopia. In 2023, Ethiopia and Boeing entered into a joint venture to manufacture some airplane parts in Ethiopia. Boeing anticipates that African carriers will need over 1,000 new jet aircraft within the next 20 years, with 80% of these deliveries aimed at expanding the existing fleet.
Chief Commissioner of the Ethiopian Investment Commission (EIC), Hanna Arayasellasie, said on Tuesday (May 28), Ethiopia received 3 billion USD in Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the first 10 months of the current fiscal year. The commissioner elaborated during an interview with the Media that the government has made significant investments in infrastructure, including road construction and industrial parks development, among other efforts to attract more investments into Ethiopia.
Ethiopia and Kuwait have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to establish a framework for employing Ethiopian workers in Kuwait on Monday (May 27). The agreement was signed by Muferihat Kamil, Ethiopia’s Minister of Labor and Skills, and Nasser Hajji Al-Mutairi, Kuwait’s Ambassador to Ethiopia.
Speaker of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, Valentina Matvienko, announced on Tuesday (May 28) her plan to visit Ethiopia soon. Valentina Matvienko stated that during her visit she will engage in discussions with senior officials, including the Speaker of the House of Federation of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Agegnehu Teshager, in all areas of mutual interest for the benefit of the peoples of the two countries.
Ethiopia officially commenced its first-ever phase of national dialogue on Wednesday (May 29) in Addis Ababa. This much-anticipated nationwide consultation project aims to address historical and contemporary contradictions. The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission, consisting of eleven members, is tasked with promoting all-inclusive consultations and a reconciliation process. This initiative seeks to mend rifts, foster agreement on significant national issues, and assist the nation in resolving its complex challenges.
The Government Communication Service (GCS) announced on Monday (May 27) that over the past years, more than 32 billion seedlings have been planted across all regions of Ethiopia under the first phase of the Green Legacy Initiative. This year, Ethiopia is set to plant an additional 6.3 billion seedlings, which have been cultivated in 132,144 nursery sites nationwide. Of these seedlings, 25% are planned to be planted in areas within the Abbay River basin.
Ethiopia’s Minister of Industry, Melaku Alebel, stated on Wednesday (May 29) that a public–private partnership (PPP) arrangement is crucial for the development of the manufacturing sector in the country. The Minister made these comments during his remarks at a PPP consultative meeting regarding the backlogs in the manufacturing industries. He noted that the collaborative efforts of stakeholder institutions can address challenges through PPP arrangements. He emphasized that the consultation would help create trust between the private sector and the government, build a strong economy, and improve production and productivity.
The UK has expressed profound and continuous support for young Ethiopians developing their own businesses. On Tuesday (May 28), the British Embassy Mission announced that the UK has assisted young Ethiopian entrepreneurs through Warka, an accelerator program funded by the Embassy. This program aims to help young Ethiopians, particularly women, grow their businesses. The project has had a significant impact by providing young people with the necessary skills and experience to develop their businesses, boost their confidence, and plan for their future.
Eritrea
President Sahle-Work Zewde of the Federal Republic of Ethiopia extended last week her congratulations to the people and Government of Eritrea on the occasion of the 33rd Independence Day anniversary. She expressed her well-wishes for good health to President Isaias Afwerki, as well as peace and prosperity for the Eritrean people. The congratulatory message also conveyed Ethiopia’s readiness to enhance strong ties and mutual cooperation with Eritrea. President Sahle-Work Zewde expressed her confidence that the friendly relations between the two countries will continue to be further strengthened. Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, also sent a message of congratulations to Osman Saleh, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Djibouti
President Ismail Omar Guelleh received former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair on Monday (May 27) at the Palace of the Republic. Tony Blair, now leading a consulting firm on development strategies and policies, met with President Guelleh to discuss potential strategic partnerships. These partnerships aim to leverage the country’s role as a multimodal logistics platform and hub for global commercial exchanges, in collaboration with the Tony Blair Institute.
Djibouti, through a delegation led by the President of the National Assembly, Dileita Mohamed Dileita, took part in the 36th conference of the Arab Inter-Parliamentary Union held in Algeria on Sunday and Monday (May 26–27).
Minister Ilyas Moussa Dawaleh represented Djibouti on Monday (May 27) at a ceremony held on the sidelines of the Annual Meetings of the African Development Bank in Nairobi. He signed a grant agreement as part of a multinational project aimed at bolstering Djibouti’s resilience against climate disasters with $35.25 million in funding. The focus is on improving response to climate shocks through initiatives like the African Disaster Risk Financing Program.
This week, Kenya is hosting the 2024 Annual Meetings of the African Development Bank Group at the Kenyatta International Conference Center in Nairobi. The meetings are scheduled to take place from May 27 to May 31.
Kenya has agreed to help the European Union in dealing with maritime crime suspects in the region, amid a rising threat from pirate activity and attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels. The EU, which has a force operating in the Indian Ocean, is concerned that the insecurity, which is also affecting ship traffic in the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, is disrupting international trade.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud arrived in Nairobi, Kenya, to join other African leaders ahead of the Annual Meetings of the African Development Bank Group on Tuesday (May 28). Africa’s socio-economic transformation is said to be at the top of the agenda to fast-track its inclusive and sustainable development priorities.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud received the new Acting UN Special Representative Ambassador James Swan at Villa Somalia Presidential Palace on Tuesday (May 27). They discussed further enhancing the FGS-UN close partnership in critical areas, including humanitarian, peace, and security.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Somalia, Ambassador Ahmed Moallim Fiqi Ahmed, hosted a German delegation in his office on Monday (May 27). Led by Ambassador Christoph Retzlaff, the Director for Sub-Saharan Africa and the Sahel at the German Federal Foreign Office, they discussed enhancing bilateral relations and exploring new cooperation opportunities.
The Emergency Relief Coordinator has allocated US$2 million from the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) for an urgent response to the cholera outbreak in Somalia. According to the World Health Organization, more than 10,000 cases and 120 deaths have been reported in seven states across the country since January.
In a significant move towards enhancing the development of Somalia’s fisheries sector, the Federal Republic of Somalia and the Sultanate of Oman have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) last week. The agreement signed in Mogadishu, Somalia, aims to propel the development of Somalia’s fisheries sector. The partnership is a testament to the mutual recognition of the vast potential in Somalia’s fish-rich waters and the opportunities they present for economic growth and sustainable development.
A top security official at the USAID emphasized the importance of dialogue among South Sudan’s key leaders, stating that it garners external support and fosters the trust needed for peace implementation. Colin Thomas-Jensen, USAID’s national security director, conveyed this message in Juba on Friday (May 24) , urging direct dialogue among President Salva Kiir, First Vice President Riek Machar, and all members of the presidency. He emphasized that such dialogue would signal commitment to peace implementation and assure genuine and peaceful elections.
Meanwhile, South Sudan is actively involved in ceasefire negotiations with the Sudanese military and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North (SPLM-N). The focus of these discussions is to facilitate the safe delivery of humanitarian aid to conflict-affected regions. Ramadan Mohamed Abdallah Goch, South Sudan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, informed Sudanese media on Saturday (May 25) that both parties have briefed their respective leadership, and mediation efforts are ongoing.
Juba hosted theEthiopia-South Sudan Business and Investment Forum from May 12–16, 2024. Organized by the Ethiopian Embassy to the Republic of South Sudan, the event was held under the theme “Promoting Business and Investment between Ethiopia and South Sudan” with the aim of enhancing economic ties and fostering collaboration between the two nations. The forum brought together business leaders, industrialists, and government representatives from both countries, setting the stage for robust business ties between the two countries. (See article)
US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken spoke by phone on Tuesday (May 28) with Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan. Secretary Blinken and General Burhan discussed the need to urgently end the conflict in Sudan and enable unhindered humanitarian access, including cross border and cross line, to alleviate the suffering of the Sudanese people. The Secretary also discussed the resumption of negotiations on the Jeddah platform and the need to protect civilians and deescalate hostilities in El Fasher, North Darfur.
The African Union’s Peace and Security Council (PSC) reiterated the urgent appeal by the Chairperson of the AU Commission for the warring parties to reinstate the local truce that had previously spared El Fasher from major fighting and to lift the current siege on the city, which has led to increased suffering and atrocities against civilians. The counsel urged the parties to resume negotiations in Jeddah without delay.
According to a Sudanese media source quoting a top Sudanese official on Saturday (May 25), Sudan and Russia are poised to finalize a range of military and economic agreements. These agreements reportedly include the establishment of a Russian naval logistical support center on the Red Sea.
Africa Day, observed on Saturday (May 25), commemorated the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in 1963 and its successor, the African Union (AU). AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat delivered a message on the commemoration day, emphasizing continued reform, unity and mobilization to address the ongoing challenges facing the continent. This year, Africa Day was celebrated under the theme “Education Fit for the 21st Century.”
The head of the African Union Election Observation Mission (AUEOM), former President Uhuru Kenyatta, held a series of high-level meetings in Johannesburg, South Africa, to assess the country’s preparedness for the General Elections that was scheduled for this Wednesday (May 29). On Monday (May 27), Kenyatta met with the Commissioners of the Electoral Commission of South Africa, led by Chairman Mosotho Moepya, at the Gallagher Convention Centre. During the meeting, the commissioners provided a comprehensive briefing on the commission’s readiness.
The African Development Bank Group is undertaking its annual meeting in Kenya from May 27–31 with 3,000 delegates, including African heads of state, ministers, and other stakeholders. This year’s theme, “Africa’s Transformation, the African Development Bank Group, and the Reform of the Global Financial Architecture,” reflects the urgency of mobilizing resources to meet Africa’s development needs, estimated at $1.3 trillion annually to achieve the UN Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
Additionally, the meeting is said to address reforming the global financial architecture and strategies for financing Africa’s transformation. Since the Dakar 2 Summit, six African countries have set up Presidential-level Councils to drive the implementation of Country Food and Agriculture Delivery Compacts, with more in the process. African Development Bank Group President, Akinwumi Adesina, announced these initiatives on Monday (May 27), highlighting the Bank’s commitment to investing $2.9 billion to support these Compacts and appointing two Special Envoys for coordination.
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Riyadh Hosts the 6th Ethiopia-Saudi Arabia Joint Commission Meeting
The 6th Ethio-Saudi Arabian Joint Commission Meeting was held from May 21 to 22, 2024, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Riyadh. The Ethiopian delegation was headed by Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia and Abdulrahman A. Alfadely, Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The Ethiopian delegation included Muferihat Kamil, Minister of Labor and Skills; Samarita Sawaswe, State Minister of Finance; Ifa Muleta, State of Agriculture, Gossa Demesse, Deputy Director General of Immigration and Citizenship Services; Yabebal Addis, Deputy Director General of Ethiopian Civil Aviation; Birhanu Ailka, Advisor to the Minister of Labour and Skills; and Ambassador Gebeyehu Ganga, Director General of Middle East, Asia and Pacific Affairs.
The meeting had two sessions: the Technical Committee and the Ministerial meetings.
The Technical Committee
The technical committee was co-chaired by Semerita Sewasew, the State Minister of Finance and Ahmed S. Alkhamshi, Deputy Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The technical meeting constituted negotiations and discussions by three sub-committees:
- Subcommittee on International Relations, Security, Labor and Customs Cooperation
- Subcommittee on Economic, Commercial and Agricultural Cooperation and
- Science, technology, social, religious, media, youth and sports sub-committee
The three committees conducted extensive negotiations and discussions on various areas of cooperation, such as trade and investment, real estate, mining, agriculture, including agro-processing, manufacturing, defense, peace and security, media and communication, culture, education, infrastructure, labor ( skilled and semi-skilled) and immigration issues, civil aviation, visa-free entry for individuals with diplomatic passports and security cooperation, cross-border crimes, and the exchange of information to jointly solve human trafficking.
The Ministerial Meeting
The ministerial meeting was held on May 22, 2024. The Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture of Saudi Arabia, Abdulrahman A. Alfadely, gave an opening remark, followed by Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, conveying a message for the two parties to implement the agreements and show their commitment to the bi-lateral relations of the two countries.
At the end of the Joint Ministerial Commission, an agreed-upon Minute was signed by the two heads of the Joint Ministerial Commission.
Aside from the JMC, Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie conferred with H.H. Prince Faisal Bin Ferhan Al Saud, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The two parties held discussions on bilateral, regional and global issues of common concern. During their discussion, Ambassador Taye explained Ethiopia’s interest in strengthening and boosting long-term diplomatic relations with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, pointing out areas of cooperation such as peace, security, the economy, and social affairs.
H.H. Prince Faisal has also expressed the Saudi Arabian interest in cooperating in several sectors, especially the business sector, explaining the interest of Saudi Arabian business firms in investing in Ethiopia. He appreciated the existing engagement of Saudi companies in the construction sector in Ethiopia and the ongoing labor agreement between the two countries, as it would benefit the two nations.
The Ethiopian Foreign Minister has called for Saudi Arabia’s assistance to support Ethiopia’s role in continental and regional frameworks, namely the African Union and IGAD, to bring about peace and security in the Horn of Africa and regional economic integration. H.H. Prince Faisal has affirmed the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s readiness to support the positive role of Ethiopia in the Horn of Africa region to ensure peace and security.
Moreover, Ambassador Taye has raised the issues of the Ethiopian community in the Kingdom, as there are an enormous number of citizens living in the Kingdom and the need to create a favorable environment for them through actions such as establishing cultural centers, which could strengthen the already excellent relations between the two countries. He also pointed out the positive role of Ethiopian community schools in Saudi Arabia in strengthening people-to-people relations and requested the full support of the Saudi Arabian government in alleviating the existing challenges of getting convenient land and locations for the school to operate.
On the sidelines of the JMC meeting, Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie also had a meeting with Abdulrahman A. Alfadely, the Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture of Saudi Arabia, and discussed how to strengthen the existing agricultural and related ties between the two countries.
Ambassador Taye also met with Hassan Mujib al Hwayzi, the Chairman of the Saudi Federation of Chambers and called for Saudi Arabian investors to continue their investment and business participation in Ethiopia.
The Chairman of the Saudi Federation of Chambers, Hassan Mujib, conveyed the interest of the Saudi Arabian investors in participating in trade and investment in Ethiopia, especially in the agricultural products processing and manufacturing sectors, and announced that selected Saudi Arabian investors would visit Ethiopia by June 2024.
Mufriyat Kamil, the Minister of Labor and Skills, on the sidelines of the meeting, had a bilateral consultation with Abd al-Wahhab Al-Aghel, Minister of Human Resources and Social Development of Saudi Arabia, regarding the legal labor employment of citizens, both domestic workers and other professionals and semi-professionals.
On another sideline meeting, Semerita Sewasew, the State Minister of Finance, had a fruitful discussion with Abdulmuhsen A. Al-Khalaf, Assistant Minister of Macro-Fiscal and International Relations of the Ministry of Finance of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
In the discussion, Semerita affirmed her appreciation for the Saudi Arabian government’s support of development projects in Ethiopia in various sectors such as infrastructure, sanitation and construction. Briefing about the current economic progress of Ethiopia through reform being adopted in various fields, she requested the government of Saudi Arabia to cooperate and utilize this opportunity in expanding areas of engagement for further cooperation.
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Pakistani Delegation Explores Investment Opportunities in Ethiopia
A significant event occurred on May 26, 2024, when a delegation representing 80 Pakistani companies arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, led by Jamal Baker, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Islamabad. The delegation, which represented a wide range of industries and expertise, sought to explore a plethora of trade and investment opportunities in the country. This development not only demonstrates Pakistan’s growing interest in Ethiopia’s economic landscape, but it also marks a watershed moment in the strengthening of bilateral trade ties between Ethiopia and Pakistan.
During their stay in Ethiopia, Pakistani investors hoped to lay the groundwork for future collaborations and ventures. The visit, particularly to industrial parks, provided an opportunity for Pakistani investors to see firsthand Ethiopia’s vast potential. Both countries stand to benefit from the exchange of knowledge, resources, and expertise in a variety of sectors, including manufacturing, technology, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Following the delegation’s arrival in Addis Ababa, a three-day business consultation forum with the Ethiopian Investment Commission and stakeholders was held under the banner “Connecting Historic Countries through Trade and Investment.” Ambassador Birtukan Ayano, Ethiopia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, delivered opening remarks, urging the two countries to further develop their relationship. The three-day event served as a showcase for collaborative efforts to promote economic diplomacy and attract foreign direct investment. The forum highlighted Ethiopia and Pakistan’s progress in improving economic ties through vibrant discussions, presentations, and networking opportunities.
During its stay in Ethiopia, the delegation went to the Bole Lemi, Kilinto, and Adama Industrial Parks. The delegation members stated that their visit allowed them to see a wide range of investment options, which resulted in a good fit with their investment plans. Ethiopia’s ambassador to Pakistan, Jamal Beker, stated that the visit informed the delegation about investment opportunities in Ethiopia. He also stated that the government would offer all necessary assistance to investors in any industry they choose. During their visit, the delegation planted saplings to strengthen bilateral relations and contribute to Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative in Adama City.
Following their field visit to the industrial parks, the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Pakistan signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Ethiopian Investment Commission to manufacture export-standard sports apparel in Ethiopia. The President of the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Abdul Ghafoor and the Commissioner of the Ethiopian Investment Commission, Hanna Arayaselassie, signed the MOU. Ethiopia’s ambassador to Pakistan and Pakistan’s ambassador to Ethiopia and the African Union attended the signing ceremony of the MoU.
The events that occurred during the visit demonstrated the importance of economic diplomacy in fostering international relations and driving economic growth. Ethiopia’s embassy is critical in orchestrating such initiatives, which not only attract foreign investors but also pave the way for long-term collaboration.
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Ethiopia, Turkiye Conduct Business Forum and their 7th Political Consultation
A business forum to promote Ethiopia’s investment and trade opportunities to the business community of Turkiye was held on May 27, 2024, in Istanbul-Turkiye. The forum was organized by the Ethiopian Embassy in Ankara and the Independent Industrialists and Businessmen Association (MUSIAD).
The Ethiopian delegation was led by Ambassador Mesganu Arga, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia and consists of Yasmin Wehab Rebi, Deputy Executive Secretary of the Ethiopian Investment Holding; Ambassador Tizita Mulugeta, Head of the Office of the State Minister of Foreign Affairs; Ambassador Adem Mohamed, Ambassador of Ethiopia to Turkiye; and Wube Mengistu, Secretary General of the Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Association. The Turkish side was represented by Mustefa Tuzcu, Deputy Minister of Trade of Turkiye; Ambassador Elif Comoglu, Director General of Eastern and Southern Africa at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkiye; Mahmut Asmash, President of MUSIAD.
In his opening remarks, Ambassador Mesganu Arga underlined the importance of having a business forum and its contribution to the economic growth and development of the two countries. He thanked the organizers of the event for their tireless efforts and the government of Turkiye for the warm welcome accorded to him and his delegation. The historic diplomatic relations between Turkiye and Ethiopia is characterized by economic and people-to-people relations, he said. The ambassador added that the two countries should make efforts to further strengthen their relations in all aspects, especially in the area of trade and investment. He stated the numerous investment opportunities, the incentives, and the new revised policies of the government and urged them to invest in Ethiopia. He also assured the Turkiye businesspeople of his government’s support to facilitate and smooth the process.
Yasmin Wehab Rebi also presented Ethiopian Investment Holding’s mission and objectives, as well as the areas and incentives that are open to Turkiye investors. She urged them to invest in those sectors. The Deputy Trade Minister of Turkiye, the President of the MUSIAD, and the Director General for Eastern and Southern Africa encouraged the Turkish business community to invest in Ethiopia so that they could make profits, citing the comparative advantage of Ethiopia.
Following the opening remarks and presentations, a business-to-business interaction was held between the business people of Turkiye and Ethiopia. Some 400 people attended the forum.
Following the conclusion of the business forum,the two countries held the 7th political consultation on May 29, 2024, in Ankara, Turkiye. The Ethiopian delegation was led by Ambassador Mesganu Arga and consisted of Ambassador Tizita Mulugeta, Head of the State Minister of Foreign Affairs; and Ambassador Adem Mahmood, Ambassador of Ethiopia to Turkiye. The Turkish side was led by Burhanettin Duran, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Ambassador Mesganu Arga emphasized the importance of holding bilateral political consultations, as they are the instrument to assess the existing relations and to discuss and suggest solutions to the problems faced by the two countries. The two sides exchanged ideas on bilateral, regional and multilateral issues of common interest. They discussed in detail the existing political, economic, cultural and consular relations between the two countries and the agreements signed between the two countries in various fields. The two countries have agreed to cooperate and support each other on regional and international issues that affect their national interests. They agreed to continue their engagements through various channels and will hold the 9th Joint Economic Commission at the end of 2024 in Addis Ababa. The meeting covered various items and a common understanding was reached on most of the issues.
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Juba Hosts Ethiopia-South Sudan Business and Investment Forum
Juba hosted theEthiopia-South Sudan Business and Investment Forum from May 12–16, 2024. Organized by the Ethiopian Embassy to the Republic of South Sudan, the event was held under the theme “Promoting Business and Investment between Ethiopia and South Sudan” with the aim of enhancing economic ties and fostering collaboration between the two nations. The forum brought together business leaders, industrialists, and government representatives from both countries, setting the stage for robust business ties between the two countries.
The four-day forum was structured in a manner that strengthened economic connections and promoted strategic initiatives. To this end, the event featured exhibitions that showcased Ethiopian industrial products and provided a platform for businesses to display their innovations and capabilities. Moreover, the business-to-business networking sessions facilitated direct interactions between the business communities of Ethiopia and South Sudan, thereby promoting potential collaborations. Overall, the sessions highlighted investment opportunities available in both countries encouraging mutual investment and economic growth.
Official statements made during the sessions corroborated the significance of the event and pointed to key areas of focus. Speaking at the opening session of the Ethiopian Industrial Products Exhibition, Dhieu Mathok Diing Wol, Minister of Investment of South Sudan, emphasized the potential for mutual economic growth through market integration, urging Ethiopian investors to explore opportunities available in South Sudan. Similarly, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to the Republic of South Sudan, Nebil Mahdi, underscored that robust infrastructural links are essential for catalyzing business and investment activities. The ambassador highlighted the critical role infrastructure connectivity has in ensuring economic growth.
A business and investment seminar was conducted, further solidifying the importance of enhancing economic relations between the two countries. Attended by Taban Deng Gai, Vice President and Chair of the Infrastructure Cluster of South Sudan, the seminar emphasized historical ties and the necessity for enhanced economic collaboration and infrastructure connectivity. During this event, South Sudanese officials assured Ethiopian investors of support and facilitation. In the same manner, a panel discussion deliberated on the need to address challenges and improve the business and investment climates between Ethiopia and South Sudan. These discussions emphasized the importance of economic integration through enhanced business and investment cooperation. The event was capped off with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the National Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Agriculture of South Sudan and the Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce, Industry, and Sectoral Association, further solidifying bilateral ties.
This forum was a significant step that boosted efforts to strengthen the economic ties between Ethiopia and South Sudan. The high attendance registered during the business and investment sessions shows the strong desire of the private companies to intensify their relations. Overall, the forum was a testament to the untapped potential that can serve as a strong foundation to build strong economic cooperation that mirrors the excellent political relations that exist between Ethiopia and South Sudan.
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