Addis Ababa: China stands ready to strengthen the all-weather strategic partnership between Ethiopia and contribute to stability in this uncertain world, Ambassador Chen Hai said today. Opening the seminar titled “China in Springtime: Sharing Opportunities with the World,” China’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Chen Hai, expressed his country’s readiness to enhance the partnership with Ethiopia.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, this year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of China-Ethiopia diplomatic ties, and China is eager to reinforce the strategic partnership while contributing to the stability of the relationship amid global uncertainties. The ambassador noted that Ethiopia is a promising land of growth and collaboration, with its modernization process showing vitality.
The ambassador outlined China’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s development through initiatives in industrialization, agricultural modernization, and trade. He emphasized the opportunities presented by China’s modernization and stressed China’s role in amplifying the voices of developing countries in global governance.
Planning and Development State Minister, Bereket Fitsehatsion, highlighted the depth of the bilateral relationship, which was elevated to an “All-Weather Strategic Partnership” in October 2023. He commented on the mutual respect and commitment to development that have characterized the relationship over decades, noting the partnership’s effectiveness as an example of South-South cooperation.
Bereket further pointed out China’s significant contributions to Ethiopia’s economic transformation, citing substantial investments, trade volumes, and job creation. Recent trade statistics indicate that Ethiopia’s imports from China reached approximately 18 billion USD over the past five years, positioning China as the top source of imports. The state minister also expressed Ethiopia’s eagerness to capitalize on opportunities presented by the Belt and Road Initiative and attract further Chinese investment.
The half-day seminar was jointly organized by the Chinese Embassy in Ethiopia and the China Media Group.