Ethiopia Participates in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit 2024
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Engages in Bilateral Talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang
Ethio-China High-Level Business Forum held in Beijing
AfCFTA Secretary-General Visits Ethiopia and Highlights Ethiopia’s Market Potential
ATMIS Transition Must Avoid Uncertainty and Chaos in the Horn of Africa
Conference on Sustainable and Inclusive Digital Future in Africa Held in Addis Ababa
Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia to Strengthen Economic Ties with New Business Council
Strengthening China-Ethiopia Ties Through the Dayu School Initiative
NEWS IN BRIEF
Ethiopia
President Sahle-Work Zewde met with the new Executive Director of UN Habitat, Anacláudia Rossbach, on Wednesday (September 4). They discussed the long-standing relations between Ethiopia and UN Habitat, focusing on planned urban development and the need for a permanent representation to further strengthen ties.
On the same day, the President met with Fikru Abebe, CEO of African Initiatives for Relief & Development (AIRD), to discuss the multi-faceted humanitarian work being carried out in Ethiopia and other African countries.
Ethiopia, represented by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and a high-level delegation, participated in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit held in Beijing on Thursday (September 5). (See Article)
On Thursday (September 5), Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, attending the Fourth Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and on an official visit to China, held productive discussions with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. Their talks focused on enhancing the Ethiopia-China All-Weather Strategic Partnership, offering an opportunity to explore new avenues for cooperation. (See Article)
The Ethio-China High-level Business Forum has been held in Beijing at the Ethiopian Embassy premises in the presence of Ethiopian high-level officials and the Chinese and Ethiopian business communities on Wednesday (Septmber 4). (See Article)
The Prime Minister also held talks with General Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, Chairman of Sudan’s Transitional Sovereign Council, on the sidelines of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.
On Monday (September 2), Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed welcomed Bill Gates to Ethiopia on his second visit since 2019. The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation for the continued support of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in advancing Ethiopia’s efforts in agriculture, health, and financial inclusion.
Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh emphasized the need for strengthened leadership, supported by unwavering political commitment, to shape the future of Africa’s urban spaces during the opening ceremony of the first African Cities Sustainability Forum on Wednesday (September 4).
Ethiopia’s delegation, led by Minister of Foreign Affairs Taye Atske-Silassie, participated in the 9th Ministerial Conference of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, China on Tuesday (September 3). Additionally, Ambassador Taye met with his Libyan counterpart, Al-Taher Salem Al-Baour, to discuss bilateral relations on the sidelines of the conference.
State Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Ambassador Mesganu Arga, met with Paul Anthony Handley, Head of Office for UNOCHA in Ethiopia, on Tuesday (September 3). The two sides concluded their discussions by agreeing to enhance cooperation and strengthen partnerships to effectively address existing challenges related to humanitarian affairs.
On the same day, the State Minister also held a meeting with Anacláudia Rossbach, the Executive Director of UN-Habitat.
Additionally, Ambassador Mesganu Arga discussed bilateral and regional issues of common concern with Italy’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Agostino Palese.
He also met with Hanna Tetteh, the Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General for the Horn of Africa, to discuss regional matters on Tuesday (September 3).
The United Nations Conference Centre in Addis Ababa hosted a pivotal conference on shaping an environmentally sustainable and inclusive digital future in Africa on Wednesday (September 4). (See Article)
On Wednesday (September 4), the Government of Germany released 4 million euros to the United Nations Development Program’s multi-partner Peace Support Facility (PSF), which is currently being implemented in the Afar, Amhara, and Tigray regions.
The Ethio-Saudi Joint Business Council was officially established following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Association and its Saudi counterpart. (See Article)
Ethiopia’s strategic position in China’s Belt and Road Initiative is fostering deeper collaboration between the two nations. A prime example of this growing partnership is the establishment of the Dayu School, a vocational education project developed through the cooperation of Arba Minch University (AMU) in Ethiopia and the Yellow River Conservancy Technical Institute (YRCTI) in China. (See Article)
Ethiopia’s Minister of Health, Mekdes Daba, on Monday (September 2), highlighted the national efforts to establish a responsive, high-quality, and easily accessible healthcare environment for adolescents and the young workforce during a three-day national health forum held in Addis Ababa.
Eritrea
President Isaias Afwerki met with President Xi Jinping, on Tuesday (September 3) as part of his visit to China to participate in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit.
Djibouti
President Ismail Omar Guelleh met with his Chinese counterpart, President Xi Jinping, on Monday (September 2) in Beijing. This meeting was part of his visit to China to participate in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit.
Kenya
President William Ruto embarked on an official visit to China on Monday (September 2) to attend the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit.
Somalia
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud participated in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing on Wednesday (September 4).
On the same day, the President also held a phone call with Josep Borrell Fontelles, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission.
South sudan
South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir attended the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit along with other African leaders.
Sudan
Sudan’s military leader Abdel Fattah al-Burhan participated in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit held from September 4-6.
On the sidelines of the summit, Sudan signed deals with Chinese companies on Wednesday (September 4) for nuclear power, port, and airport projects.
Africa and African Union
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the African Union Commission (AUC) officially launched the Africa Urban Resilience Program on Wednesday (September 4). Addis Ababa hosted the First Africa Urban Forum under the auspices of the African Union, which brought together key stakeholders to discuss and shape the future of urbanization across Africa.
Wamkele Mene, the Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), led a delegation on a working visit to Ethiopia from August 29-30. During their stay, the delegation held discussions with Foreign Minister Ambassador Taye Atseke-Selassie and Minister of Trade and Regional Integration Kassahun Gofe. (See Article)
The Horn of Africa faces numerous challenges, including terrorism, political instability, and conflicts driven by climate change. Al-Shabaab’s ongoing presence remains a significant security threat to Somalia and the surrounding region. (See Article)
Ethiopia Participates in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit 2024
Ethiopia, represented by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and a high-level delegation, participated in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit held in Beijing on Thursday (September 5).
The summit, themed “Joining Hands to Advance Modernization and Build a High-Level China-Africa Community with a Shared Future,” was attended by Ethiopian Foreign Minister Ambassador Taye Atske-Seleassie and other senior Ethiopian officials.
The summit emphasized FOCAC’s role as a crucial platform for South-South Cooperation, which has significantly contributed to development and shared prosperity. African and Chinese leaders reviewed the progress made since the Eighth Ministerial Conference of FOCAC in 2021 and adopted the Beijing Declaration and the Beijing Action Plan for 2025-2027.
These documents outline a strategic vision for a robust China-Africa partnership and reinforce China’s support for African Union membership in the G20, as well as its advocacy for expanding BRICS to include more African countries.
The Declaration and Action Plan highlight key areas of cooperation, including the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), infrastructure development, and improved trade access for African products in China. Both sides committed to aligning their efforts with the Belt and Road Initiative and supporting Africa’s continental integration under the African Union Agenda 2063.
The summit also addressed the operationalization of the Africa Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) and the African Medicine Agency (AMA). Both parties called for accelerated reforms of the international financial system and urged developed countries to fulfill their Official Development Assistance (ODA) commitments.
A significant outcome was the establishment of a tripartite Demonstration Center of Excellence involving China, Ethiopia, and UNIDO, aimed at promoting the economic development of Global South countries.
China announced its decision to provide 360 billion yuan in financial support over the next three years, including 210 billion yuan in credit lines and 80 billion yuan in various types of assistance. Additionally, Chinese enterprises are expected to invest no less than 70 billion yuan in Africa. China also plans to support the issuance of “panda bonds” by African countries.
The summit underscored the importance of strengthening cooperation in the digital economy, recognizing it as a strategic avenue for technological advancement and industrial transformation. Both sides expressed their commitment to deepening cooperation to achieve common development and prosperity. In the realm of climate change and green development, China committed to advancing the China-Africa Bamboo Center project in Addis Ababa, which aims to foster cooperation in bamboo development.
Chinese President Xi Jinping, in his keynote speech, announced the elevation of China’s relations with all African countries to a strategic level, marking a new phase in China-Africa relations. He highlighted the progress made since FOCAC’s inception and emphasized that the modernization of Africa is integral to the modernization of the world. Over the next three years, China aims to work closely with Africa to implement the Ten China-Africa Partnership Actions for Modernization, enhancing cooperation and leading the modernization of the Global South.
The FOCAC Summit saw the participation of heads of delegations from 53 African countries, as well as representatives from the African Union and other regional and international organizations. Ethiopia’s involvement in FOCAC has yielded significant results, including the successful implementation of the Standard Gauge Railway connecting to Djibouti, which has catalyzed economic activity and regional integration.
Ethiopia and China have continued to advance their cooperation under FOCAC’s Nine Programs, reflecting a deepening partnership that was further solidified during Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to China in October 2023, where relations between the two countries were elevated to an all-weather strategic partnership.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Engages in Bilateral Talks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang
On Thursday (September 5), Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, attending the Fourth Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and on an official visit to China, held productive discussions with Chinese Premier Li Qiang. Their talks focused on enhancing the Ethiopia-China All-Weather Strategic Partnership, offering an opportunity to explore new avenues for cooperation.
The meeting highlighted the enduring partnership between Ethiopia and China, characterized by mutual respect, shared values, and a commitment to advancing peace and development. Both leaders reaffirmed the deep friendship that underpins their relationship and expressed a shared vision of leveraging the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and FOCAC frameworks to boost bilateral collaboration.
Prime Minister Abiy conveyed his gratitude for China’s longstanding support for Ethiopia’s economic and social development. He emphasized that China remains Ethiopia’s most trusted partner, reaffirming Ethiopia’s adherence to the one-China policy and its support for China’s core interests.
Key areas of cooperation were discussed, including industrialization and infrastructure development. The two sides agreed to collaborate on the establishment of Special Economic Zones and Free Trade Zones in Ethiopia, with the aim of increasing industrial capacity, creating jobs, and facilitating technology transfer. These initiatives are expected to play a pivotal role in Ethiopia’s economic transformation.
The discussions also covered the digital economy, with both countries committing to partnerships that will position Ethiopia as a regional technological hub. Efforts will be focused on driving innovation and economic growth through technological advancement.
Agricultural modernization was another focal point. Ethiopia and China agreed to align Ethiopia’s food security initiatives with China’s broader plan to support Africa’s agricultural modernization. This collaboration will enhance agricultural productivity, ensure food security, and bolster Ethiopia’s agro-industrial sector.
Prime Minister Abiy also raised Ethiopia’s keen interest in enhancing tourism cooperation, leveraging the complementarity of the immense tourism attractions of Ethiopia and the great potential of China in generating tourists in the global outbound tourism market. He also mentioned Ethiopian Airlines’ indispensable role in promoting investment, trade, tourism, and culture between Africa and China. The international expansion of EAL is accelerating and heading of the China-Africa aviation connectivity.
Financial cooperation was also on the agenda. Ethiopia expressed appreciation for China’s support in re-profiling its debt under the G-20 Common Framework. The two leaders discussed further financial collaboration, including continued funding from Chinese financial institutions for key Ethiopian projects, which is essential for the country’s long-term development and stability.
In addition to economic development, both leaders underscored the importance of joint efforts to promote peace and security in the Horn of Africa, particularly through building the capacities of law enforcement agencies. Prime Minister Abiy also expressed thanks to China for supporting Ethiopia’s inclusion in the BRICS family, and discussions were held on Ethiopia’s interest in joining the BRICS Bank, the New Development Bank (NDB), to access new financial cooperation and development opportunities.
Premier Li Qiang reiterated China’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s talent development through educational programs, training, and scholarships. These initiatives are aimed at equipping Ethiopian youth with the skills needed for the country’s socio-economic transformation and building a knowledge-based economy.
Prime Minister Abiy seized the opportunity to extend his warm congratulations to the government of China for hosting an extraordinarily magnificent FOCAC summit. He also expressed Ethiopia’s profound commitment towards the implementation of the Ten China-Africa Partnership Actions for Modernization initiated by President Xi Jinping and corroborated that the ten actions are congruently aligned with his country’s priorities.
Prime Minister Abiy was accompanied by senior Ethiopian officials, including Foreign Minister Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie. Following the talks, the leaders presided over the signing of 17 bilateral cooperation agreements, reinforcing the “all-weather strategic partnership” between Ethiopia and China.
The high-level meetings and Ethiopia’s active participation in the FOCAC Summit marked a significant advancement in Ethiopia-China relations. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation and utilizing their strategic partnership to foster mutual prosperity, peace, and sustainable development. The agreements signed during the visit provide a solid foundation for future collaboration and shared growth between the two nations.
Ethio-China High-Level Business Forum held in Beijing
The Ethio-China High-level Business Forum has been held in Beijing at the Ethiopian Embassy premises in the presence of Ethiopian high-level officials and the Chinese and Ethiopian business communities on Wednesday (Septmber 4).
The Ethiopian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie in his keynote address, emphasized that the advanced level of partnership between China and Ethiopia is enduring tangible results. Ambassador Taye expressed that Ethiopia’s leadership is determined to improve the business environment and has taken several encouraging measures to ease doing business in the country.
Assuring Ethiopia’s government readiness to provide reliable assistance to Chinese companies, he warmly welcomed Chinese enterprises to partner with Ethiopia in transforming the country into Africa’s manufacturing powerhouse and a hub of economic connectivity, leveraging regional and continental market opportunities such as the African Continental Free Trade Area.
Ahmed Shide, Ethiopian Minister of Finance, on his part, expressed that Ethiopia’s recent reforms, such as a change in the foreign exchange system and the removal of restrictions on foreigners in certain sectors, will boost Chinese investment in the country. He highlighted major progress that has been made in foreign currency liberalization which is going to be complemented by monetary policy, fiscal policy, and the efficiency of public investment.
On the other hand, Belete Molla, Minister of Innovation and Technology, highlighted the digital Ethiopia 2025 strategy, government’s efforts to digitalize the country’s economy and invited Chinese companies to join Ethiopia’s journey to realize its vision in this regard.
Mekdes Daba, Ethiopian Minister of Health, expressed that Ethiopia has identified six priority investment areas in health care, such as tertiary health care, advanced diagnosis, local product manufacturing, Human Resources Development, Pre-hospital emergency care, and health care innovation and technology.
Deputy Commissioner of the Ethiopian Investment Commission, Zeleke Temesgen highlighted Ethiopia’s investment opportunities in agriculture, mining, energy, construction, manufacturing, and ICT sectors for potential Chinese investors.
In general, this high-level Business Forum underscores Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to attract foreign direct investment and strengthen its economic ties with China, one of its key investment and trade partners. The high-level representation from the Ethiopian government signals the country’s readiness to facilitate Chinese investment across various sectors of its economy. The forum attracted more than 450 Chinese companies.
AfCFTA Secretary-General Visits Ethiopia and Highlights Ethiopia’s Market Potential
Wamkele Mene, the Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), led a delegation on a working visit to Ethiopia from August 29-30. During their stay, the delegation held discussions with Foreign Minister Ambassador Taye Atseke-Selassie and Minister of Trade and Regional Integration Kassahun Gofe.
Wamkele Mene commended Ethiopia for its significant progress in integrating the AfCFTA Agreement and for implementing crucial reforms in recent years. He also provided an update on the achievements related to the domestication and execution of the AfCFTA Agreement.
In response, Ambassador Taye expressed gratitude for the AfCFTA Secretariat’s support and reaffirmed the Ethiopian government’s commitment to the Free Trade Area Agreement. He emphasized the importance of capacity-building and awareness initiatives to maximize the benefits of the AfCFTA.
Minister Kassahun Gofe highlighted the government’s commitment to implementing the AfCFTA Agreement and noted Ethiopia’s substantial market potential. He mentioned that preparations are underway to participate in the Guided Trade Initiative, with the verification of Ethiopia’s service offerings currently in progress.
On Thursday (August 29), Wamkele Mene addressed a Public-Private Dialogue at the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration, outlining the benefits of the AfCFTA upon its full implementation. The delegation also held productive consultations with private sector representatives, discussing the economic benefits of fully implementing the AfCFTA Agreement.
Participants acknowledged the potential of the free trade agreement to enhance regional integration and economic development in Africa, while also addressing challenges such as insufficient trade financing, infrastructure deficits, and logistical issues.
Additionally, the delegation visited the Ethiopian Airlines Cargo terminal and aviation academy, recognizing the airline’s role in cargo and passenger transportation across Africa, which supports the successful implementation of the AfCFTA Agreement. They also toured AMG, a private industrial park specializing in metal manufacturing and coffee export, located south of Addis Ababa in Akaki.
As a signatory to the AfCFTA Agreement and the second most populous country in Africa, Ethiopia has significant market potential. By effectively implementing the AfCFTA Agreement, Ethiopia can access the vast African market for its goods and services. Thus, the visit of the AfCFTA delegation was timely as Ethiopia prepares for the full operationalization of the AfCFTA Agreement.
ATMIS Transition Must Avoid Uncertainty and Chaos in the Horn of Africa
The Horn of Africa faces numerous challenges, including terrorism, political instability, and conflicts driven by climate change. Al-Shabaab’s ongoing presence remains a significant security threat to Somalia and the surrounding region.
African Union peacekeeping forces, specifically AMISOM and ATMIS, have been crucial in dismantling al-Shabaab and stabilizing Somalia. Over the years, the Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) have demonstrated their solidarity with the Somalian people and government by combating these terrorists, who perpetrate brutal acts against innocent civilians. Notably, Ethiopia has played a vital role as a TCC, making considerable sacrifices to support these missions aimed at stabilizing both Somalia and the broader region.
ATMIS is currently at a critical juncture as it prepares to transition to a new mission framework, the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM). This transition, set to begin on January 1, 2025, will mark the third peace support mission in Somalia, following ATMIS, which replaced AMISOM in April 2022. The UN Security Council must authorize this new deployment, adhering to Chapter VIII of the UN Charter.
Ethiopia’s foreign policy emphasizes the importance of developing strong ties with its neighbors, asserting that relationships between nations extend beyond mere governmental interactions. It seeks to foster people-to-people connections, recognizing the cultural and linguistic bonds that exist. Issues arising between neighboring countries should ideally be resolved through bilateral discussions and consultations grounded in mutual respect. Ethiopia has made profound sacrifices, in terms of both lives and resources, to support Somalia since 2005, demonstrating its commitment to the nation’s stability.
However, despite Ethiopia’s sacrifices, some Somalian leaders have made regrettable political comments that exacerbate misunderstandings between the two countries, undermining the strong relationship built on shared struggles. It is crucial for both nations to focus on maintaining stability and safeguarding the progress achieved over the past 18 years, especially in the face of al-Shabaab’s ongoing threat.
A follow-up mission is essential to prevent a security vacuum, given the complex geopolitical landscape and the fragile peace in the Horn of Africa. As ATMIS transitions, the risk of worsening these issues due to a hasty or poorly managed change is a significant concern. Abrupt changes could create a power vacuum that extremist groups might exploit, leading to heightened violence and insecurity. Therefore, a strategic and pragmatic approach is needed, one that prioritizes stability, continuity in peacekeeping efforts, and the strengthening of Somalian Security Forces.
Failing to address these challenges undermines the credibility of peacekeeping efforts and sets a dangerous precedent for other nations. To ensure a successful transition of ATMIS, the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) and the UN Security Council (UNSC) must adopt a proactive and objective stance. Facilitating dialogue among regional nations, especially TCCs, and addressing external influences that threaten stability is critically important.
As ATMIS transitions to AUSSOM, the focus must remain on preventing chaos and uncertainty in the Horn of Africa. The zero-sum game played by certain external actors under the guise of peacekeeping could escalate tensions rather than alleviate them. Coupled with the international community’s inadequate response, the situation in Somalia demands urgent attention.
Conference on Sustainable and Inclusive Digital Future in Africa Held in Addis Ababa
The United Nations Conference Centre in Addis Ababa hosted a pivotal conference on shaping an environmentally sustainable and inclusive digital future in Africa on Wednesday (September 4).
Organized by the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), the event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including government officials, diplomats, UN representatives, and experts from various fields.
The conference aimed to address the dual challenges of digitalization and environmental sustainability, emphasizing the need for systematic shifts in the ICT sector to protect the planet while promoting economic prosperity and intergenerational equity. Key findings from UNCTAD’s Digital Economy Report 2024 were discussed, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable strategies throughout the digitalization lifecycle.
Participants explored actionable policy recommendations and strategic collaborations to foster a sustainable digital future for Africa. The hybrid format of the event allowed for both in-person and virtual participation, ensuring a wide range of perspectives and insights.
This conference marks a significant step towards achieving a balanced approach to digital transformation in Africa, aligning with the continent’s broader goals of inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia to Strengthen Economic Ties with New Business Council
The Ethio-Saudi Joint Business Council was officially established following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Association and its Saudi counterpart.
This landmark agreement was reached during the visit of a 79-member Saudi business delegation to Ethiopia from June 3 to 6, 2024. During this visit, the Ethio-Saudi Business Forum was held, introducing the Saudi business community to Ethiopia’s diverse trade and investment opportunities.
Notably, the delegation met with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who expressed strong support for enhancing bilateral economic relations. The establishment of the Joint Business Council was endorsed by the Prime Minister, underscoring Ethiopia’s commitment to fostering closer economic ties with Saudi Arabia.
The newly established council aims to unite private sector representatives from both countries, facilitating dialogue, information exchange, and partnership building. One of its key functions will be to raise awareness about investment opportunities and business environments in both nations, including tax policies, regulations, and incentives. The council will also produce annual reports on the investment climates of Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia, making this information accessible to its members.
Additionally, the council will address trade disputes by providing a mechanism for resolving conflicts between businesses from the two countries. It will maintain continuous communication with stakeholders to improve cooperation, build trust, and overcome obstacles.
This proactive approach is intended to facilitate amicable dispute resolution, strengthen economic relations, and foster a conducive environment for business development. The council will also promote mutual business visits, conferences, and exhibitions, working to enhance economic ties and establish new projects.
Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia have enjoyed a dynamic trade relationship over the years, with Saudi Arabia being one of Ethiopia’s largest trading partners in the Middle East. The trade primarily consists of Ethiopia exporting agricultural products such as coffee, livestock, and oilseeds to Saudi Arabia, while importing petroleum products, chemicals, and other manufactured goods from the Kingdom.
Recently, Saudi investment in Ethiopia has increased, particularly in agriculture, real estate, and manufacturing, driven by Ethiopia’s natural resources, growing population, and improving infrastructure.
The Ethio-Saudi Joint Business Council is expected to build on these existing trade ties and pave the way for more robust economic cooperation between the two countries. As both nations continue to explore new avenues for collaboration, the future of Ethio-Saudi business relations appears promising.
Strengthening Ethiopia-China Ties Through the Dayu School Initiative
Ethiopia’s strategic position in China’s Belt and Road Initiative is fostering deeper collaboration between the two nations. A prime example of this growing partnership is the establishment of the Dayu School, a vocational education project developed through the cooperation of Arba Minch University (AMU) in Ethiopia and the Yellow River Conservancy Technical Institute (YRCTI) in China.
In early 2023, AMU, known for its expertise in water education and research, signed a cooperation agreement with YRCTI, a leading Chinese institution specializing in water conservancy and hydropower engineering. This agreement set the groundwork for the Dayu School, designed to address the urgent need for skilled water conservancy professionals in Ethiopia and the broader region.
On August 8, 2024, YRCTI representatives, Wang Feng and Wang Mengmeng, visited AMU to finalize the development plans for the Dayu School. Their visit focused on clarifying the specifics of the collaboration, including enrollment strategies, scholarship policies, and curriculum details. The institutions agreed on key aspects of the training program, including the first hydraulic engineering training plan and the division of teaching responsibilities.
The Dayu School will launch its enrollment in September 2024. It aims to address Ethiopia’s growing demand for skilled professionals in water conservation, infrastructure, and related fields. This demand is driven by increased Chinese investment and infrastructure projects in the country.
The Dayu School will offer a three-year program: the first two years at AMU, where Chinese teachers from YRCTI will collaborate with AMU faculty, and the third year at YRCTI in China. Students will have opportunities for practical training with Chinese enterprises and may receive full scholarships for their studies in China. YRCTI will also assist in job placements with Chinese companies in Ethiopia for top-performing graduates.
The Dayu School’s focus is not only on theoretical knowledge but also on practical application and skill integration. This approach aims to enhance students’ core competencies, expand their career opportunities, and strengthen China-Ethiopia economic and educational ties.
Through the Dayu School, both AMU and YRCTI are working to ensure that students gain valuable skills, which will contribute to their future success and the strengthening of China-Ethiopia relations.
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