Ethiopia and China Strengthen Development Partnership
High-Level Meeting Boosts Bilateral Ties
Addis Ababa – Ethiopia has further solidified its longstanding partnership with China during a significant bilateral meeting held on Tuesday. The meeting featured Ethiopia’s Finance Minister, Ahmed Shide, and China’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Chen Hai, who engaged in productive discussions focused on enhancing their collaborative efforts.
Development Cooperation Grant Agreement Signed
One of the highlights of this meeting was the signing of a development cooperation grant agreement. This agreement underscores both nations’ commitment to investing in future projects that will contribute to the sustainable development of Ethiopia.
Expressions of Gratitude
In his address, Minister Ahmed Shide openly expressed Ethiopia’s gratitude towards China for its unwavering support. The Chinese government has played a crucial role in financing numerous public projects and encouraging foreign direct investment in Ethiopia.
Commitment to Strengthening Cooperation
Shide reaffirmed Ethiopia’s dedication to further reinforcing the historic partnership with China, urging for enhanced collaboration in financing essential development initiatives. Notably, he cited the new international airport project as a key area for cooperation that promises significant benefits to the Ethiopian economy.
Ambassador Chen Hai’s Support for Ethiopia
Ambassador Chen Hai also articulated China’s commitment to Ethiopia’s development agenda. He emphasized the importance of maintaining collaborative efforts in several critical sectors.
Key Areas of Cooperation
During discussions, Chen highlighted ongoing cooperation projects, including:
- AI Sovereign Model and Application Project
- Supplementary works on the Ethio-Djibouti Railway
- Engagements under the Comprehensive Agreement on Development and Economic Partnership for Africa (CADEPA)
These initiatives are vital for enhancing Ethiopia’s infrastructure and technological capabilities.
Financing Development Projects
At the conclusion of the meeting, the attendees signed a substantial grant agreement worth 200 million RMB. This funding will primarily focus on “small but beautiful” development projects, aimed at achieving quick and impactful results that deliver direct benefits to the Ethiopian populace.
Conclusion
The strengthening of ties between Ethiopia and China exemplifies a mutual commitment to fostering sustainable development. As both countries continue to collaborate on various projects, their partnership is poised to yield significant advancements for Ethiopia’s economic landscape.
For more information on international partnerships and development initiatives, visit World Bank’s Ethiopia Program and United Nations Development Programme.
