Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Visits Ethiopia
Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia Hold First Round of Political Consultations
Ethiopian Delegation Participates in the Oran Annual High-Level Peace and Security Seminar
Ethiopia Participates in the 5th BRICS Sherpas/Sous Sherpas Meeting in Ekaterinburg, Russia
African Development Bank Marks 60 Years of Transformative Development in Addis Ababa
Ethiopia and Kenya Deepen Military and Cultural Ties
Ethiopia and China Strengthen Ties in Cybersecurity, Space Science, and Tourism
NEWS IN BRIEF
Ethiopia
President Taye Atske Selassie received the credentials of twenty-four newly appointed ambassadors from various countries this week (December 3–4). The ambassadors represent Mexico, Sudan, Nicaragua, Iran, Gabon, Belgium, China, Ghana, Denmark, Israel, Ireland, the Netherlands, Venezuela, Algeria, France, the European Union, Argentina, Germany, Namibia, South Africa, Slovenia, Greece, Colombia and Luxembourg.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed met with the President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), Jin Liqun, on Saturday (November 30). Their discussions centered on enhancing the partnership between Ethiopia and the Bank in areas such as green energy, aviation, and infrastructure development.
Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos received the UN Country Team led by the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Ramiz Alakbarov, on Wednesday (December 4). The Minister emphasized the importance of strengthening existing cooperation and accelerating UN support for the government’s efforts in priority areas.
France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot concluded a significant visit to Ethiopia last week, underscoring the strong ties between the two countries and France’s commitment to further strengthening the relation in new areas of opportunity. (See Article)
Ethiopia’s Ministry of Health and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to launch the “Sustainable Diversified Diets for Improved Nutrition” project in the Seqota Declaration Woredas of Ethiopia on Tuesday (December 3). Minister of Health Mekdes Daba and KOICA Ethiopia Office Country Director Han Deog Cho signed the MoU.
Ethiopia’s Oromia Regional Government and senior leader of the Oromo Liberation Army (OLA) have signed a peace agreement in Addis Ababa on Sunday (December 1) following the government’s call for peace.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia held their first round of political consultations in Riyadh on Sunday (December 1). The Ethiopian delegation was led by Ambassador Mesganu Arga, State Minister of Foreign Affairs, while the Saudi delegation was headed by Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed El-Khereiji. (See Article)
During his visit to Riyadh, the State Minister held discussions with Ahmed bin Saleh bin Ayadah Al-Hamshi, Saudi Arabia’s Deputy Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture; Hassan Bin Mujab Al-Huwaizi, President of the Federation of Saudi Chambers of Commerce; and Mohammad Alabduljabar, Acting Governor of the General Authority of Foreign Trade. The meetings highlighted Ethiopia’s economic reforms, strategic location, and opportunities in agriculture, manufacturing, mining, and services.
Additionally, the Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Nebiat Getachew, delivered the Ministry’s bi-weekly press briefing on Thursday (December 5). The briefing, presented to local and Addis Ababa-based international correspondents, focused on political, economic, and citizen-centered diplomacy, as well as current regional and global affairs.
A delegation led by the Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the African Union (AU) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), Ambassador Hirut Zemene, participated in the 11th African High-Level Peace and Security Seminar held in Oran, Algeria, on Tuesday (December 3). (See Article)
The 5th BRICS Sherpas/Sous Sherpas meeting took place on November 27–28, 2024, in Ekaterinburg, Russia, an industrial hub. The meeting aimed to review the partnership’s activities for 2024 and introduce the priorities and work program of Brazil’s Presidency in 2025. Ethiopia was represented by a delegation led by Ambassador Menelik Alemu, Special Policy Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs. (See Article)
The President of AIIB, Jin Liqun, and his delegation held productive discussions on Saturday (November 30) with Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew and the airline’s executive management. The delegation also toured Ethiopian Airlines’ state-of-the-art facilities, showcasing the airline’s commitment to innovation and excellence in aviation.
Ethiopia and China have taken notable steps to enhance their bilateral cooperation in cybersecurity, space science, and tourism. These agreements, finalized last week on Tuesday (November 26), aim to deepen the long-standing ties between the two nations and promote mutual growth in these pivotal sectors. (See Article)
Ethio Telecom, Djibouti Telecom, and Sudatel Telecom Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the Horizon Fiber Initiative in Addis Ababa on Tuesday (December 3). The MoU aimed to enhance digital connectivity across Africa and establish seamless communication links from the Horn of Africa to Europe and Asia.
The Ethiopian Investment Commission (FBC) promoted 10 of the 13 industrial parks managed by Industrial Parks Development Corporation (IPDC) into Special Economic Zones on Tuesday (December 3). The industrial parks that have been upgraded into SEZ are Adama, Bahir Dar, Bole Lemi, Debre Birhan, Hawassa, Jimma, Kilinto, Kombolcha, Mekelle, and Semera industrial parks.
Eritrea
An Eritrean delegation participated in the Sixteenth Conference of Parties (COP16) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), being held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, under the theme “Our Land. Our Future” on Wednesday (December 4).
Kenya
A delegation led by Kenya’s Chief of Defense Forces, General Charles Kahariri, met with Ethiopia’s Chief of Staff, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, on Tuesday (November 26) in Addis Ababa to discuss enhancing military cooperation between the two neighboring countries. (See Article)
An Ethiopian delegation led by Fenta Dejen, State Minister for Urban and Infrastructure Development, and Ambassador Bacha Debele took part in the opening session of the second Executive Board meeting of the United Nation Human Settlements Programme in Nairobi, Kenya on Wednesday (December 4).
Somalia
On the sidelines of the 24th Ordinary Summit of the East African Community (EAC) Heads of State in Arusha, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud met with his Kenyan and Ugandan counterparts, President William Ruto and President Yoweri Museveni, on Saturday (November 30). The discussions focused on advancing regional integration, fostering trade and economic partnerships, and strengthening security cooperation to address shared challenges in the Horn of Africa.
Somalia and France signed a debt relief agreement on Monday (December 2) valued at $145.6 million. The agreement was formalized at the French Embassy in Nairobi by Somalia’s Minister of Finance, Bihi Iman Cige, and French Ambassador to Somalia, Arnaud Suquet.
South Sudan
President Salva Kiir Nayardit met with Chairman of the Transitional Sovereignity Council of Sudan, Abdel Fattah Al-Burhan, on Wednesday (December 4), where they discussed ways of enhancing regional peace and stability. The Chairman of the Transitional Sovereignty Council is in Juba for a working visit.
Sudan
General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, Chairman of Sudan’s ruling Sovereign Council, met with the European Union’s Special Envoy to the Horn of Africa, Annette Weber, on Sunday (December 1). The meeting focused on the ongoing conflict in Sudan and prospects for peace and security in the region.
Africa and the African Union
The African Development Bank (AfDB) celebrated its 60th anniversary with a ceremony in Addis Ababa on Friday (November 29), reflecting on six decades of advancing economic growth, regional integration, and sustainable development across the continent. (See Article).
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Moussa Faki Mahamat, held a strategic dialogue with France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, Jean-Noël Barrot, on Friday (November 29) in Addis Ababa. Both parties agreed to expand their partnership across various fields, including peace and security.
The African Union Peace and Security Council (PSC), in collaboration with the AU Commission and UNITAR, held the 11th Annual High-Level Seminar on Peace and Security in Africa (Oran Process) this week (December 1-2) in Oran, Algeria. The seminar focused on combating terrorism, UN Security Council reforms, and improving PSC-A3 Plus cooperation.
Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France Visits Ethiopia
France’s Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Noel Barrot concluded a significant visit to Ethiopia last week, underscoring the strong ties between the two countries and France’s commitment to further strengthening the relationship in new areas of opportunity.
During his visit, the minister met with Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, and held discussion with his Ethiopian counterpart, Gedion Timothewos, focusing on bilateral, regional, and multilateral issues of mutual concern.
During the discussion, FM Gedion expressed appreciation for the visit of the Foreign Minister and underlined the importance Ethiopia attaches to its longstanding partnership with France. He also briefed the minister about Ethiopia’s current affairs and developments in the region. He particularly emphasized the new macro-economic reforms and highlighted the need for enhanced participation by French private companies in the booming Ethiopian economy.
On his part, Minister Barrot addressed key areas of cooperation between the two countries and future prospects. The minister stressed that Ethiopia is a reliable partner for France and expressed wishes to elevate the cooperation to the maximum level possible. The minister also appreciated the macro-economic measures that the Ethiopian government has taken recently and noted French companies are keen to take advantage of the existing opportunities.
He also discussed France’s development assistance on the renovations of Ethiopian heritages, including the Jubilee Palace and St. Lalibela churches. The minister further stated that France is ready to engage in cooperation to renovate other cultural heritages in different parts of the country. In this connection, the minister unveiled a 7 million Euros initiative known as “Sustainable Heritage in Ethiopia” to support restoration and preservation of cultural heritages in Ethiopia.
During his stay, the minister visited Lycee G/Mariam and the Ethiopian National Museum, which showcase the cultural and educational ties between France and Ethiopia. The visit saw the signing of an agreement between France and Ethiopia’s ministry of education regarding Lycee G/Mariam School. This pact aims to enhance educational cooperation and increase opportunities and benefits for Ethiopian students.
The two sides agreed to continue working closely to advance mutually important agendas at regional and multilateral platforms.
Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia Hold First Round of Political Consultations
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia held their first round of political consultations in Riyadh on Sunday (December 1). The Ethiopian delegation was led by Ambassador Mesganu Arga, State Minister of Foreign Affairs, while the Saudi delegation was headed by Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Waleed El-Khereiji.
The discussions centered on strengthening cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including bilateral, regional, and international issues. Both sides emphasized the importance of leveraging Ethiopia’s constructive role in the Horn of Africa and Saudi Arabia’s strategic position in the Gulf Region to foster shared prosperity and regional stability.
The consultations also underscored the need to expand Saudi investment and trade in Ethiopia, particularly in agriculture. Both delegations exchanged views on deepening historical and people-to-people ties, alongside political and economic relations.
In reviewing progress on key bilateral initiatives, the parties discussed the outcomes of the 6th Ethio-Saudi Joint Ministerial Meeting and the Ethiopia-Saudi Arabia Business Forum held earlier in 2024 in Riyadh and Addis Ababa, respectively.
Ambassador Mesganu highlighted the shared history, culture, and religion that form the foundation of Ethiopia-Saudi relations. He briefed the Saudi side on Ethiopia’s recent political and economic progress, including ongoing reforms, infrastructure projects, green economy initiatives, and renewable energy development. He further urged the swift conclusion of pending bilateral agreements, including the skilled and semi-skilled labor agreement.
Vice Minister Waleed El-Khereiji reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to enhancing ties with Ethiopia. He emphasized the need for collaboration in political, economic, and security sectors to address shared challenges such as terrorism, human trafficking, and arms and drug smuggling. He also called for regular consultations to strengthen bilateral relations for the mutual benefit of both nations.
The meeting was attended by Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Muktar Kedir.
Both sides agreed to continue holding regular Joint Ministerial Commission and Political Consultation meetings, laying the groundwork for broader cooperation across various sectors. This inaugural political consultation marks a significant step toward deepening bilateral ties and advancing peace and development in the region.
Ethiopia Participates in the 23rd Extraordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union
Ethiopia, represented by a delegation led by Ambassador Mesganu Arga, State Minister of Foreign Affairs, took part in the 23rd Extraordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU), held virtually on Monday (November 25). This session was convened following the decision of the 45th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council, which took place from July 15–16, 2024, in Accra, Ghana.
The session addressed key issues, including the progress report on the African Union Skills Audit and Competency Assessment (SACA) process, the budget for AU participation in the G20, and audit-related matters. It also reviewed the AU’s participation in the G20 Summit held from November 18–19, 2024, in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The meeting was chaired by Mohamed Salem Merzoug, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Mauritanians Abroad, and Chairperson of the Executive Council. Moussa Faki Mahmat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, provided updates on the agenda items.
In his remarks, Ambassador Mesganu commended the AU’s progress in institutionalizing reforms implemented since 2017 through the SACA process. He emphasized the importance of expediting the SACA implementation to enhance the Commission’s operational efficiency and effectiveness. The State Minister also expressed confidence that the Council would reach consensus on ensuring fair representation and smooth functioning of the Commission, guided by principles of integrity, humanity, and fairness. He reaffirmed Ethiopia’s unwavering support for the successful execution of the SACA process.
The session also discussed the AU’s historic participation in the G20 Summit, marking its first appearance as a permanent member of the group since its admission in September 2023. The G20 membership offers African nations a platform to engage directly with the world’s largest economies.
Updates from the Rio de Janeiro Summit highlighted how AU representation in the G20 could influence global economic policies and address Africa’s pressing challenges, including climate change, economic development, global governance reforms, and inclusive growth. These discussions underscored the significance of Africa’s priorities being recognized in global policymaking.
The session provided an opportunity for member states to evaluate the outcomes of the AU’s participation in the G20 Summit and strategize for future engagements. It aimed to ensure that Africa’s voice is amplified and its representation in global economic discussions is strengthened.
The 23rd Extraordinary Session also facilitated dialogue among member states on how to maximize the AU’s role on the international stage. The outcomes of this session are expected to shape Africa’s trajectory in global governance and economic development for years to come.
Ethiopian Delegation Participates in the Oran Annual High-Level Peace and Security Seminar
A delegation led by Ambassador Hirut Zemene, Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the African Union (AU) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), has participated at the 11th African High-Level Peace and Security Seminar held in Oran, Algeria. Ambassador Hirut represents Gedion Timothewos, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, at this significant gathering.
The annual seminar known as the Oran process, organized over the past decade through collaboration between Algeria and the AU Peace and Security Council (PSC), serves as a strategic platform for coordination between incoming and outgoing African non-permanent members of the UN Security Council and the AU Peace and Security Council in amplifying Africa’s collective voice and strengthening its effectiveness in addressing global peace and security challenges.
The high-level participants of the seminar were officially welcomed by Ahmed Attaf, Minister of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad, and African Affairs, on behalf of the President of Algeria. In his opening address, Attaf emphasized that effective coordination between the AU PSC and the three African members of the UNSC is crucial to ensuring unified African positions on peace and security issues.
In his opening remarks, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Djibouti, as the current Chairperson of the AU PSC for the month of December 2024, highlighted the continent’s multifaceted peace and security challenges, including the adverse impacts of emerging global issues and financial constraints in addressing peace and security issues within the multilateral framework.
In her intervention, Ambassador Hirut Zemene underscored Ethiopia’s steadfast commitment to regional cooperation and its dedication to the ongoing fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
She further explained the grave threat posed by extremist groups like Al-Shabaab and noted the need to celebrate the significant sacrifices made by Ethiopia, along with troop-contributing countries, in combating terrorism in the Horn of Africa. The need to strengthen the financing mechanism of peace support operations along with the implementation of UN Resolution 2719 was also highlighted in her remarks.
Key topics discussed during this year’s seminar include countering terrorism, combating violent extremism, implementing UNSC Resolution 2719 on sustainable financing for peacekeeping operations in Africa, and advancing the “Pact for the Future.”
Ethiopia Participates in the 5th BRICS Sherpas/Sous Sherpas Meeting in Ekaterinburg, Russia
The 5th BRICS Sherpas/Sous Sherpas meeting took place on November 27–28, in Ekaterinburg, Russia, an industrial hub. The meeting aimed to review the partnership’s activities for 2024 and introduce the priorities and work program of Brazil’s presidency in 2025. Ethiopia was represented by a delegation led by Ambassador Menelik Alemu, Special Policy Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Sergey Ryabkov, Deputy Foreign Minister and BRICS Sherpa of the Russian Federation, presented an overview of the year’s activities and achievements under the three pillars of BRICS cooperation: political and security, economic and finance, and humanitarian and people-to-people relations. Under Russia’s presidency, BRICS hosted 250 meetings and events across these focus areas.
Speaking on behalf of Ethiopia’s Sherpa, Ambassador Menelik Alemu congratulated Russia on its successful BRICS Presidency. He highlighted key achievements, including the Kazan Declaration, the integration of new BRICS members, and the adoption of the Partner Country Model. Ambassador Menelik reiterated Ethiopia’s readiness to strengthen collaboration in trade, development finance, nuclear medicine, and education. He also called for the swift consideration of Ethiopia’s application to join the New Development Bank (NDB), a move praised by Russia’s Sherpa for Ethiopia’s constructive and balanced approach.
The year concluded positively for BRICS, with growing global interest in membership and deepening cooperation among current members. Significant achievements included mechanisms to increase intra-BRICS trade through alternative payment methods, initiatives on climate change and sustainable development, platforms to combat terrorism and corruption, advances in health sectors such as research, nuclear medicine, and vaccine production, and enhanced collaboration in education, transport, and technology. The BRICS Business Council (BBC) and Women’s Business Alliance (WBA) played pivotal roles in expanding private sector participation.
The Kazan Declaration, adopted during the October Leaders’ Summit, set the stage for further expansion of the BRICS family. Ethiopia actively supported the inclusion of new members, emphasizing equitable regional representation, particularly for Africa. The Partner Country Model was recognized as a vital first step toward this objective. BRICS’ consensus-driven approach also enabled unified positions on global issues such as financial system reforms, UN Security Council reform, and climate action.
During the meeting’s final segment, Brazil outlined its priorities for its 2025 BRICS Presidency. These include advancing G20 initiatives like the Global Alliance Against Hunger and promoting cooperation in agriculture, health, education, energy, and climate change. Science and technology, particularly artificial intelligence, will also feature prominently.
Ethiopia expressed its commitment to actively engage with Brazil’s Presidency, aiming to align its participation with concrete deliverables that advance the country’s priorities.
African Development Bank Marks 60 Years of Transformative Development in Addis Ababa
The African Development Bank (AfDB) celebrated its 60th anniversary with a ceremony in Addis Ababa on Friday (November 29), reflecting on six decades of advancing economic growth, regional integration, and sustainable development across the continent.
Established in 1964 with the vision of “Africans for Africa,” the AfDB has become a cornerstone of Africa’s development, evolving from a modest capital base of $250 million to a robust institution managing $380 billion in assets.
Themed “60 Years of Making a Difference,” the diamond jubilee highlighted the Bank’s journey and its vision for Africa’s future. Deputy Director General for the Eastern Africa Region, Leandre Bassole, opened the event by acknowledging Ethiopia’s pivotal role as a founding member and host nation. He underscored the Bank’s progress, which has enabled the financing of over $184 billion in projects across the continent, spanning infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and more.
The Deputy DG noted that early projects in Sierra Leone and Kenya have grown into a vast portfolio of 6,575 initiatives, transforming lives, uplifting communities, and revitalizing economies. Examples include the construction and upgrading of over 800 kilometers of roads in Ethiopia, which have reduced travel times, improved access to essential services, and connected remote areas to urban centers.
State Minister of Finance, Semereta Sewasew, echoed these successes, highlighting the tangible benefits of AfDB’s support for Ethiopia. Since 1975, the Bank has financed 213 projects in Ethiopia, including 39 in transportation, 28 in energy, and 66 in agriculture. She also noted transformative projects like the Ethiopia-Kenya Electricity Highway, which has expanded electricity access, enhanced trade, and positioned Ethiopia as a regional energy exporter.
AfDB’s initiatives, such as the Technologies for African Agricultural Transformation program, have reached 1.8 million Ethiopian farmers, demonstrating the Bank’s impact on food security and rural livelihoods.
Both Deputy DG Bassole and State Mnister Semereta emphasized the enduring partnership between Ethiopia and AfDB, founded on mutual respect and shared goals. They reiterated the importance of renewed partnerships, innovative financing models, and a strong belief in Africa’s potential to ensure continued progress.
The AfDB was established following a meeting in Khartoum, Sudan, in September 1964, where representatives of 25 African countries envisioned a bank to drive economic development and reduce poverty across Africa. Over the decades, the Bank has focused on critical sectors such as electricity, clean water, healthcare, education, and transport, becoming a pillar of sustainable growth on the continent.
Ethiopia and Kenya Deepen Military and Cultural Ties
A delegation led by Kenya’s Chief of Defense Forces, General Charles Kahariri, met with Ethiopia’s Chief of Staff, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, on Tuesday (November 26) in Addis Ababa to discuss enhancing military cooperation between the two neighboring countries.
During a press briefing, Field Marshal Birhanu highlighted the long-standing and conflict-free relationship between Ethiopia and Kenya, describing it as exemplary. The discussions focused on furthering military collaboration, with the possibility of signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly combat terrorist groups like al-Shabaab, ensuring peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.
General Kahariri praised Ethiopia’s pivotal role in counterterrorism efforts and emphasized Kenya’s readiness to strengthen its military partnership with Ethiopia. Both sides reiterated their commitment to combating terrorism in the region, particularly the persistent threat posed by al-Shabaab.
The importance of regional cooperation was underscored during the 3rd Horn Dialogue held in Nairobi in November 2024. Under the theme “Road Mapping the Future Security Cooperation of the Horn of Africa,” the dialogue explored the region’s security challenges, opportunities, and potential solutions. Ambassador Bacha Debele, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Kenya, during his remarks on the dialogue, called for innovative and collaborative approaches involving governments, non-state actors, and international partners to address the region’s pressing security concerns.
Ethiopia and Kenya’s partnership extends beyond military efforts, encompassing deep cultural and people-to-people ties, as exemplified by the Borana communities who share linguistic and cultural heritage across their shared border. These communities actively participate in cross-border cultural exchanges, strengthening the bonds between the two nations.
The participation of the Borana community of Kenya in the Irreecha festival in Bishoftu town and Addis Ababa highlights this connection. Similarly, a group of elders from the Borana community of Ethiopia attended the Borana Cultural Night held in Bomas, Kenya, in November, further demonstrating the vibrant cultural collaboration between the two countries.
These exchanges highlight the strong bonds between the two nations, fostering mutual understanding and contributing to peace along their shared border. The cooperation between Ethiopia and Kenya serves as a model for regional unity, demonstrating how shared heritage and collaborative efforts can address security and socio-economic challenges in the Horn of Africa.
Ethiopia and China Strengthen Ties in Cybersecurity, Space Science, and Tourism
Ethiopia and China have taken notable steps to enhance their bilateral cooperation in cybersecurity, space science, and tourism. These agreements, finalized last week on Tuesday (November 26), aim to deepen the long-standing ties between the two nations and promote mutual growth in these pivotal sectors.
Boosting Tourism Collaboration
Ethiopia and China signed a bilateral agreement to strengthen their cooperation in the tourism sector. The agreement, signed by Ethiopia’s Minister of Tourism, Selamawit Kassa, and Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia, Chen Hai, seeks to enhance collaboration in tourism development, wildlife protection, and cultural exchanges.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Minister Selamawit highlighted Ethiopia’s rich cultural heritage, including UNESCO-inscribed world heritage sites. She emphasized the government’s commitment to prioritizing tourism as part of Ethiopia’s homegrown economic reform, which focuses on expanding destinations, improving infrastructure, and enhancing tourism information services.
“The tourism sector is not only a vital source of foreign currency but also a driver of sustainable development, creating employment opportunities, and promoting small and medium enterprises,” the minister stated.
Minister Selamawit also noted Ethiopia’s long-standing relationship with China in various fields, including hospitality, fashion, construction, and culture, stressing that the new agreement will deepen these ties.
Ambassador Chen Hai affirmed China’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Ethiopia, noting the immense tourism potential of both countries. “China and Ethiopia are nations of ancient civilizations, endowed with world-renowned cultural heritage and natural resources,” he said. The ambassador emphasized the sector’s potential to contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of both countries.
Advancing Cybersecurity
Ethiopia and China have also agreed to bolster cooperation in cybersecurity. This commitment was made during a meeting between Tigist Hamid, Director General of Ethiopia’s Information Network Security Administration (INSA), and Ambassador Chen Hai.
Director General Tigist briefed the ambassador on Ethiopia’s cybersecurity initiatives and highlighted the importance of collaboration in enhancing the nation’s digital infrastructure. She expressed optimism that the partnership would play a crucial role in addressing cybersecurity challenges and strengthening Ethiopia’s digital resilience.
Ambassador Chen praised Ethiopia’s efforts to secure its digital landscape and assured continued support from China. “Cybersecurity is a critical area where Ethiopia and China can expand their collaboration, building on the robust partnership demonstrated in other fields,” he remarked.
Progress in Space Science
In another milestone, Ethiopia’s Space Science and Geospatial Institute (SSGI) and the China Academy of Science-Shanghai Engineering Center for Microsatellites (CAS-SECM) signed an agreement to launch Ethiopia’s second remote sensing satellite, ETRSS-2.
SSGI Director General Abdissa Yilma announced that the satellite, set to be developed within 18 months, will provide vital data for sectors such as agriculture, forestry, water management, and disaster risk prevention. “ETRSS-2 will enhance Ethiopia’s big data analytics and support informed decision-making and policy formulation,” the Director General said.
He further emphasized the importance of space science for Ethiopia, describing it as an essential area for national development rather than a luxury.
Xiaocheng Zhu, Vice Director of the Scientific Research and Engineering Department at Shanghai Microsatellites, highlighted China’s extensive experience in the aerospace sector, having launched 38 satellites in the past two decades. He expressed pride in collaborating with Ethiopia, viewing it as part of a broader partnership with Africa.
These agreements underscore the deepening cooperation between Ethiopia and China across various fields. By focusing on tourism, cybersecurity, and space science, both nations are not only strengthening their diplomatic ties but also paving the way for sustainable development and technological advancement.
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