Ethiopia Gears Up for 2024 Green Legacy Initiative
AU Peace and Security Council Deliberates on the Situation in Sudan
AU PSC Endorses the Deployment of a New AU-led Mission in Somalia
Council of Ministers Approve Draft Banking Proclamations Paving the Way for Foreign Banks Entry
Ethiopia-Beijing Business Cooperation Conference held in Addis Ababa
NEWS IN BRIEF
Ethiopia
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed bid farewell to Calabro Aurelia Patrizia, United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) representative who has concluded her term in Ethiopia, in an official ceremony held on Tuesday (June 25).
The pre-launch ceremony for this year’s Green Legacy Initiative took place on Saturday (June 22), officiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed with the theme “A Nation that Plants; A Generation that Sustains.” The 2024 launch of the Green Legacy Initiative reinforces Ethiopia’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability and showcases its dedication to combating climate change challenges. (See article)
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed also launched the local medical product manufacturing and innovation exhibition on Saturday (June 22) and stated that considerable attention has been directed towards the sector, beginning with policy reforms aimed at the domestic production of medical supplies and medicines.
Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh addressed Ethiopia’s annual National Migration Council forum on Tuesday (June 25), highlighting challenges related to migration management. He emphasized the need for effective management amid threats from human trafficking and smuggling. Ethiopia currently hosts over 1 million refugees, underscoring the country’s commitment to refugee protection.
Ethiopia’s Council of Ministers approved groundbreaking legislation with the draft National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) Proclamation and Banking Business Proclamation earlier this month, marking a pivotal step in the country’s financial sector reform efforts. (See article)
Foreign Minister Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie undertook an official visit to Djibouti, arriving on Sunday (June 23). During his stay in Djibouti, he engaged in discussions with President Ismail Omar Guelleh, Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu. The meetings focused on bolstering regional cooperation and exploring opportunities for economic collaboration. Additionally, Ambassador Taye toured the port facilities in Djibouti to assess potential areas for enhanced bilateral engagement.
Senior Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials on Monday (June 24) engaged in promoting Ethiopia’s domestic medical manufacturing sector at the local medical product manufacturing and innovation exhibition launched in Addis Ababa last week. Ambassador Nebiyou Tedla, spokesperson for the ministry, emphasized the importance of expanding market access for Ethiopian medical products. He underscored the ministry’s commitment to economic diplomacy, prioritizing the promotion of locally manufactured goods through Ethiopia’s diplomatic channels worldwide.
Ethiopia rejected accusations from Somalia that Ethiopian soldiers unlawfully crossed the border into Somali territory. Ambassador Nebiyu Tedla, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, in an interview with a media outlet on Thursday (June 27), acknowledged the presence of Ethiopian troops in Somalia deployed as part of the African Union Transitional Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) and a bilateral agreement between the two nations.
The Ethiopia-Beijing (China) Business Cooperation Promotion Conference took place in Addis Ababa on Friday (June 21), co-organized by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Beijing Sub-Council, the Beijing International Chamber of Commerce, the Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Association, and the Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Association, in collaboration with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Addis Ababa. (See article)
Ethiopia took over the chairmanship of the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) Support Group from Italy. Ethiopia was announced as the incoming chair of the UNDRR Support Group at a meeting held on Monday (June 24) in Geneva.
Ethiopia and the European Union engaged in a discussion to identify possible avenues to strengthen the existing parliamentary collaborations on Tuesday (June 25). The meeting involved the Chairperson of the Ethiopia-EU Friendship Committee of the House of People’s Representatives, Ambassador Dina Mufti, and the EU delegation led by Chargé d’affaires, a.i. David Krivanek, along with Christian Meseth from the EU Parliament’s Directorate-General for External Policies.
Ethiopia and Italy signed a 4.7 million euro grant agreement on Tuesday (June 25). The agreement entitled “Strengthening of the SGBV (Sexual Gender Based Violence) and MHPSS (Mental Health Psychosocial Support) Services in Ethiopia” aims to strengthen the local system in the provision and expansion of quality, equitable, and accessible gender-based violence and mental health psychosocial support services in conflict-affected three regions and in Addis Ababa.
Finland pledged support for Ethiopia’s digital learning in the TVET sector on Tuesday (June 27). Finland’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Sinika Antila, met with officials of the Federal Technical and Vocational Training Institute (TVTI) to discuss enhancing digital learning and affirmed Finland’s commitment to supporting digital education and training in Ethiopia under the “Capacity Building for Modernizing TVET Pedagogy in Ethiopia (MOPEDE) Project.”
Ethiopia’s Minister of State for Trade and Regional Integration, Kasahun Gofe, held a discussion on the implementation of trade zones on Monday (June 24) with Samir Hamrouni, CEO of the World Free Zones Organization (World FZO), in Zanzibar, Tanzania, on the sidelines of the 3rd African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Ministerial Retreat.
Ethiopian Airlines has been named Africa’s best airline for the seventh consecutive year by the SkyTrax Awards, held on Monday (June 24) at London’s Fairmont Windsor Park. The airline also secured top honors in three categories: Best Business Class in Africa, Best Economy Class in Africa, and Best Economy Class Onboard Catering in Africa.
Minister of Planning and Development, Fitsum Assefa, announced on Monday (June 24) that Ethiopia aims to achieve 8.3 percent economic growth in the 2017 Ethiopian fiscal year. The Minister told an Ethiopian media outlet that based on the main macroeconomic sector performances over the past 10 months, indicators suggest 7.9 percent economic growth for the current fiscal year. She noted that execution in agriculture, manufacturing, mining, and other sectors is enabling the realization of the set economic growth targets.
The national veterinary institute (NVI) announced on Tuesday (June 25) that Ethiopia is not only self-sufficient in animal vaccines but also earning foreign currency by exporting to 33 countries in the Middle East and Africa.
Eritrea
President Isaias Afwerki, on Monday (June 24), met and held talks with a senior Italian delegation led by Adolfo Urso, Minister of Enterprises and Made in Italy. The discussions focused on investment in several sectors, including energy, physical infrastructure and ports, fisheries and agriculture, manufacturing aimed at exports, and water infrastructure.
Djibouti
An Ethiopian delegation headed by Adem Farah, Vice President of the ruling Prosperity Party and head of the Democratic System Building Center with the rank of Deputy Prime Minister, has arrived in Djibouti on Thursday (June 27) to attend the celebration of the 47th Independence Day of Djibouti. The delegation was comprised of senior government officials, including the Finance Minister, Ahmed Shide, the Chief of General Staff of the Ethiopian Defense Forces, Field Marshall Berhanu Jula, and the Oromia region chief administrator, Shimels Abdissa.
Djibouti commenced the construction of a $12.7 billion oil refinery funded by Saudi Arabia’s Ajyal Refinery, following the signing of a land lease agreement between the Chairman of Great Horn Investment Holding (GHIH) and Saudi Arabia’s Ajyal Refinery and Energy Company on Sunday (June 25). The lease agreement sets the stage for the refinery plant to be built within the Damerjog Industrial Free Zone in Djibouti.
Kenya
President William Ruto hosted US Congress members at State House, Nairobi, on Friday (June 21) to advocate for the extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which is set to expire in February 2025. In a statement, the Head of State emphasized the significant benefits AGOA has provided to the continent, particularly in creating market access for African products.
Kenya sent approximately 1,000 police officers to Haiti on Tuesday (June 25) as part of a United Nations-backed mission to address gang violence. This mission includes personnel from other countries such as Benin, the Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, and Chad.
Kenya signed Global Fund grants amounting to US$ 407.99 million to support HIV, tuberculosis (TB), and malaria interventions, reports a Kenyan media outlet on Monday (June 24). The Global Fund grants are a partnership between governments, civil society, the private sector, and people affected by diseases designed to accelerate the end of the AIDS, TB, and malaria epidemics globally.
Kenya hosted the 2nd Global Event on Sustainable Vaccine and Pharmaceutical Manufacturing in Africa, launched on Sunday (June 23). This event builds on the lessons and achievements of the inaugural event in June 2023, focusing on ongoing enhancement and private sector collaboration.
Somalia
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, along with Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre and the Deputy Prime Minister, Salah Ahmed Jama, joined government officials and members of the public on Tuesday (June 25) held in Moqadishu in an event to mark its Independence Day (June 26).
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud attended the East Africa Community Conference (EACON 2024) on Strengthening Regional Cooperation held in Mogadishu on Monday (June 24). The meeting aims to transform challenges into opportunities, paving the way for a more interconnected, inclusive, and prosperous East Africa.
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud received the newly-appointed U.S. Ambassador to Somalia, Richard H. Riley, on Friday (June 21). In the meeting, the ambassador presented his letters of Credence to the President. He also received General Michael E. Langley, Commander of United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), alongside Ambassador Riley to discuss Somalia-U.S. strategic security cooperation and joint counter-terrorism efforts.
Later on Tuesday (June 25), Defense Minister Abdulkadir Mohamed Nur held a meeting with the new US Ambassador to Somalia, Richard H. Riley. They discussed military cooperation between the two countries and the shared goal of defeating terrorists. During the meeting, the US Ambassador reaffirmed the US’s unwavering support for the Somali Army.
The Federal Government of Somalia (FGS) initiated discussions with the United Nations (UN) to transition from a special political mission to a UN Country Team (UNCT) structure. The first meeting between technical teams from the FGS and the UN Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) took place on Sunday (June 23) in Mogadishu, setting the stage for a series of discussions aimed at establishing a clear timeline for the transition.
South Sudan
Ethiopia and South Sudan are set to build a 220 km road connecting the two countries, following a $738 million financial agreement signed in May 2023. South Sudan’s Transitional National Legislative Assembly (TNLA) ratified the Ethiopia-South Sudan financial agreement to build a cross-border highway on Tuesday (June 25). The project aims to enhance connectivity and bolster economic ties between the two nations, underscoring the growing cooperation and mutually beneficial relationship between Ethiopia and South Sudan.
South Sudan President Salva Kiir and the head of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Filippo Grandi, met on Friday (June 21) to discuss the humanitarian crisis in Sudan. Both sides affirmed their commitment to joint efforts to aid refugees.
South Sudan’s Ministry of ICT and Portal Services announced on Monday (June 24) that Israel has sent experts and space scientists to Juba to assist in establishing South Sudan’s space science program.
Sudan
The United States announced on Monday (June 24) that it is providing $38 million in additional humanitarian assistance for the people of Sudan. The aid, provided through its aid arm (USAID), includes $23 million to the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in support of its ongoing assistance to the children of Sudan.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) committed $28 million to support critical humanitarian efforts in Sudan and neighboring countries. This announcement comes on the heels of a $20 million agreement finalized on Wednesday (June 26) with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) in Geneva.
Africa and the African Union
The African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council (PSC) deliberated on the situation in Sudan on Friday (June 21) in Addis Ababa. The high-level meeting, held at the level of heads of State and Government, was chaired by Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of Uganda and current PSC Chairperson for the month of June. (See article)
In a bid to enhance security and stability in Somalia, the African Union Peace and Security Council (PSC) endorsed the deployment of a new AU-led mission on Friday (June 20) during its 1217th meeting held in Addis Ababa. (See article)
The 12th Edition of the Pan-African Conference on Illicit Financial Flows kicked off on Wednesday (June 26) in Tunis, focusing on the theme ‘Africa’s Tax Agenda in Combating Illicit Financial Flows: From Words to Action’ with the aim at the substantial strides African countries have taken in combating IFFs considering the evolving dynamics of national, regional, and international taxation policies.
The African Union celebrated the 10th anniversary of the adoption of the Malabo Protocol on Tuesday (June 25) at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This event, organized in collaboration with the Pan African Lawyers Union and Atrocities Watch Africa, aims to reinvigorate discussions on the protocol, explore its potential to advance accountability in Africa, and advocate for its ratification.
The African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) launched a three-day solidarity field mission in South Sudan on Monday (June 24) to gather first-hand information on the progress of the 2018 Revitalized Agreement with the aim of assessing the current state of implementation of the peace agreement.
The 3rd Ordinary Session of the Sixth Parliament of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) commenced on Monday (June 24) at its seat in Midrand, South Africa, and is scheduled to run until July 5. This session centers on the African Union’s 2024 theme, “Educate an African Fit for the 21st Century: Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased Access to Inclusive, Lifelong, Quality, and Relevant Learning in Africa.”
Ethiopia Gears Up for 2024 Green Legacy Initiative
The pre-launch ceremony for this year’s Green Legacy Initiative took place on Saturday (June 22), officiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, with the theme “A Nation that Plants; A Generation that Sustains.” The 2024 launch of the Green Legacy Initiative reinforces Ethiopia’s strong commitment to environmental sustainability and showcases its dedication to combating climate change challenges.
Ethiopia set an exemplary tone in the global fight against climate change with the ambitious Green Legacy Initiative launched in 2019 under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, aiming to combat environmental degradation and deforestation. Last year, Ethiopia set a world record by planting 566 million seedlings in a single day. This extraordinary achievement not only highlighted Ethiopia’s dedication to environmental sustainability but also garnered international attention and support for its reforestation efforts.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized that “the Green Legacy Initiative goes beyond just planting trees; it signifies the collective action of inspiring young Ethiopians to value creating a greener, healthier, and more sustainable future.” The launch of the 2024 Green Legacy Initiative marks another significant step in Ethiopia’s journey towards environmental sustainability and resilience. The Prime Minister underscored the collective responsibility of Ethiopians and the global community to preserve our planet for future generations.
This year’s initiative has set a target to plant 7.5 billion tree seedlings, marking another significant step towards achieving its reforestation goals. This initiative underscores Ethiopia’s steadfast commitment to environmental conservation and sustainable development and sets exemplary milestones for other African nations in the fight against climate change.
During the pre-launch of this year’s initiative, the corridor development project being implemented in various parts of the capital, Addis Ababa, was highlighted. This project aligns with the Green Legacy Initiative as it aims to transform Addis Ababa into a green capital city, featuring bicycle routes, spacious pedestrian walkways, better roads, parks, and recreation areas to improve the quality of life for residents. Prime Minister Abiy encouraged the collective work done so far and called upon Ethiopians from all walks of life to participate in the upcoming tree-planting initiative.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stressed the imperative of investing in agriculture, technology, and renewable energy amidst Ethiopia’s growing population. The Prime Minister further noted that Ethiopia’s forest coverage had declined from 40% to 3% over the years due to deforestation, but the Green Legacy Initiative aims to reverse this trend. Since the inception of the initiative, Ethiopia has planted various tree species, fruits, vegetables, and 6 billion coffee plants, as stated by the Prime Minister, highlighting the achievements of the initiative.
To address climate challenges effectively, Prime Minister Abiy called for sustained efforts beyond discussions and summits, emphasizing the importance of cultivating a tree-planting culture among future generations. The Green Legacy Initiative serves as a powerful example of how dedicated leadership, community involvement, and international cooperation can bring about positive environmental change. With ambitious goals set for 2024, Ethiopia continues to inspire the world with its unwavering commitment to a greener legacy.
Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh, former President Mulatu Teshome, former Prime Minister Hailemariam Dessalegn, military personnel, regional representatives, the diplomatic community, ministers of various sectors, and young students were present at the launch.
AU Peace and Security Council Deliberates on the Situation in Sudan
The African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council (PSC) deliberated on the situation in Sudan on Friday (June 21) in Addis Ababa. The high-level meeting, held at the level of Heads of State and Government, was chaired by Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, President of Uganda and current PSC Chairperson for the month of June.
The meeting was also attended by Moussa Faki Mahamat, AU Commission Chairperson; Mohamed Ibn Chambas, Chair of the AU High-Level Panel on Sudan; António Guterres, UN Secretary-General (represented); Workneh Gebeyehu, IGAD Executive Secretary; and Ahmed Aboul Gheit, League of Arab States Executive Secretary.
The meeting condemned the ongoing violence and its severe humanitarian impact, including indiscriminate killings and infrastructure destruction, and appealed to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) to agree on a comprehensive and unconditional ceasefire. The Council further reiterated its previous position that there is no military solution to the conflict in Sudan while also underscoring the importance of a comprehensive political dialogue to end the conflict and restore the constitutional order in Sudan.
Reaffirming its unwavering commitment to Sudan’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national unity, the PSC expressed solidarity with the Sudanese people in their quest for a democratic, civilian-led government. The Council, which took stock of the ongoing diplomatic efforts by the AU, IGAD, and international actors and the challenges faced in realizing a comprehensive ceasefire and starting an inclusive political process, took important decisions that further reinvigorated the central role of the African Union and the Peace and Security Council as an organ entrusted with conflict resolution, among other things.
Accordingly, the PSC established a five-member presidential committee drawn from the five regions tasked with facilitating a face-to-face meeting between the leaders of the SAF and RSF. It also proposed the convening of an extraordinary AU summit to further address the Sudan situation. On another note, the Council underscored the challenges faced with the proliferation of initiatives and the importance of enhanced coordination and complementarity of peace efforts through established AU mechanisms. The Council also took important decisions with regard to the protection of human rights and foreign intervention in Sudan.
The Council’s meeting on Sudan is an important step towards bringing peace and stability to the country with renewed vigor and commitment in the spirit of ‘African Solutions to African Problems’. The decision’s emphasis, particularly on the central role of the African Union and the mechanisms it put in place to realize a comprehensive ceasefire, are commendable steps to end the conflict in Sudan. Hence, there is a clear imperative for regional states and international actors to support the AU’s effort in a coordinated manner.
The AU, on the other hand, needs to leverage the strategic role of the neighboring states whose national security is directly affected by the conflict by allowing them to play a greater role in various mechanisms outlined in the communiqué.
Ethiopia, which has been consistently calling for a ceasefire and a Sudanese-led and Sudanese-owned AU-IGAD peace process, supports the AU PSC’s decision and will continue to play a constructive and positive role in the AU’s effort to end the conflict. As a neighbor that shares a long history of fraternal relations with Sudan, Ethiopia will also continue to shelter refugees and collaborate on all efforts to ameliorate the suffering of civilians.
AU PSC Endorses the Deployment of a New AU-led Mission in Somalia
In a bid to enhance security and stability in Somalia, the African Union Peace and Security Council (PSC) endorsed the deployment of a new AU-led mission on Friday (June 20) during its 1217th meeting held in Addis Ababa.
This new mission, set to replace the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) upon the termination of its mandate in December 2024, aims to support the Federal Government of Somalia in its efforts to degrade Al-Shabaab, provide security, and facilitate state-building priorities. The decision marks a significant step in the AU’s ongoing commitment to peace and stability in the region.
The African Union Peace and Security Council (PSC) has been engaged in post-African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS) security arrangements since April of this year. It has instructed the AU Commission to conduct a field visit to Somalia and present a report encompassing the political, economic, and security situation in Somalia, as well as options for a post-ATMIS security arrangement.
The “Joint Strategic Assessment for the Post-ATMIS Security Arrangement for an AU-Led Mission in Somalia” was prepared by the Commission following a visit to Somalia last May. During its 1217th meeting, the Council welcomed the report and its findings, acknowledging the progress made since the deployment of AMISOM in 2007 and its reconfiguration to ATMIS in 2022 in fighting Al-Shabaab and in state-building activities in Somalia.
The Council considered different options presented by the Commission regarding the establishment of a new force to replace ATMIS upon the termination of its mandate in December 2024. Accordingly, the Council endorsed the establishment of a new AU-led and UN-authorized mission to support the Federal Government of Somalia in degrading Al-Shabaab, providing security, and enabling state-building priorities.
The new mission will focus on supporting the Federal Government of Somalia, engaging in counter-terrorism operations, and ensuring a smooth transition of security responsibilities to Somali forces. The Council also emphasized the need for clear communication, command and control structures, and regular information sharing. It further tasked the AU Commission with developing a Concept of Operations (CONOPs) that outlines the size, scope, and mandate of the new mission to ensure a smooth transition upon the exit of ATMIS.
The Council stressed the importance of predictable and sustainable funding for the new mission and endorsed the proposal for the new force to be financed by the UN-assessed contribution as per resolution and a multi-partner trust fund.
The decision to continue supporting Somalia by establishing a new mission is an important step to safeguard the gains made in fighting Al-Shabaab. It is also vital to ensure a smooth security transition in Somalia and address the regional threat posed by Al-Shabaab and other terrorist outfits. Hence, the PSC’s decision is a commendable step towards the stability of Somalia and the region at large.
However, it is important to note that the close involvement of stakeholders, mainly the Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs), in the post-ATMIS arrangement is critical. The practical experiences of the TCCs in counterterrorism operations are vital to maintaining the hard-won gains made so far and further degrading the fighting capability of Al-Shabaab.
As a nation that has faced the persistent threats of Al-Shabaab and has made significant sacrifices through the deployment of Ethiopian troops under AMISOM and ATMIS, Ethiopia fully supports the Council’s decision to address the threat posed by Al-Shabaab. Ethiopia also endorses the necessity of a coordinated and robust counter-terrorism strategy to effectively combat this terrorist group.
Council of Ministers Approve Draft Banking Proclamations Paving the Way for Foreign Banks Entry
Ethiopia’s Council of Ministers approved groundbreaking legislation with the draft National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) Proclamation and Banking Business Proclamation earlier this month, marking a pivotal step in the country’s financial sector reform efforts.
Prepared by the National Bank of Ethiopia and approved by the Council of Ministers, these proclamations reflect meticulous consideration of current and future developmental needs, policy directions, technological advancements, and international best practices observed by peer central banks.
According to a press release by the National Bank of Ethiopia on Friday (June 14) regarding the approved draft proclamations this month, the Banking Business Proclamation aims to open up the banking sector to foreign investment. It allows foreign banks to participate by establishing subsidiaries, branches, or investing in shares of existing domestic banks. The National Bank will regulate representatives of these foreign banks.
The proclamation also introduces a range of prompt corrective actions to be taken by the National Bank against problem banks and sets a regulatory sandbox framework for the introduction of new and innovative financial services.
The Press Release further states that the National Bank of Ethiopia grants resolution authority to manage likely-to-fail or failed banks, thereby minimizing costs to customers. Lastly, the proclamation introduces changes to the composition of commercial banks’ boards of directors.
One of the primary benefits of allowing foreign banks into a country’s market is the enhancement of competition. Foreign banks can also facilitate access to international capital, which is particularly beneficial for developing economies like Ethiopia. Their extensive global networks enable them to provide substantial financing for large projects, contributing significantly to economic growth and stability.
The preliminary banking proclamation facilitating the entry of foreign banks into Ethiopia is currently undergoing a rigorous review process by the House of Peoples’ Representatives, highlighting its dedication to nurturing an environment that supports sustainable economic growth and financial stability in Ethiopia.
In line with this, the House passed the first reading of the draft Banking Business Proclamation on Tuesday (June 25), as Ethiopia moves closer to opening up the banking sector to foreign investors.
This draft proclamation was prepared in response to recent policy reforms, stated government whip Tesfaye Beljige while presenting the bill to members of parliament.
Ethiopia-Beijing Business Cooperation Conference held in Addis Ababa
The Ethiopia-Beijing (China) Business Cooperation Promotion Conference took place in Addis Ababa on Friday (June 21), co-organized by the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade Beijing Sub-Council, the Beijing International Chamber of Commerce, the Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Association, and the Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Association, in collaboration with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Addis Ababa.
The conference aimed to foster business-to-business exchanges and economic cooperation between Beijing, China, and Ethiopia through four sessions: opening remarks, MOU signings, trade and investment promotion, and a matchmaking session.
Key attendees included Hassan Mohammed, State Minister of Industry; Semerita Sewasew, State Minister of Finance; Ambassador Gebeyehu Ganga, Director General of the Middle Eastern, Asia, and Pacific Countries Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; Liu Wei, Deputy Secretary of the C.P.C. Beijing Municipal Committee and President of the Beijing People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries; Yang Yihang, Minister Counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Ethiopia; Melaku Ezezew, President of the Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Association; and Masenbet Shenkute, President of the Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Association.
Ambassador Gebayehu Ganga, during his opening remarks, highlighted the robust bilateral ties between Ethiopia and China, elevated to an all-weather strategic partnership in 2023, stressing their economic complementarity and advocating for increased Chinese investment in Ethiopia’s industrialization to position the country as a manufacturing hub in Africa. He also underscored Ethiopia’s potential within the BRICS framework and reaffirmed support from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Chinese businesses entering Ethiopia.
Liu Wei, for his part, emphasized the strong friendship and trust between China and Ethiopia, highlighting Beijing’s advanced industrial capacity in high-tech industries for scientific development and green manufacturing. He expressed optimism about expanding cooperation across infrastructure, agriculture, tourism, healthcare, and the digital economy sectors, aiming for mutual benefit and contributing to a shared future between China and Africa.
State Minister Hassan Mohammed outlined Ethiopia’s ambitious plans to shift from an agrarian to an industry-led economy, highlighting government policies and reforms aimed at attracting investment, particularly in manufacturing. He cited initiatives like “Ethiopia Tamirt” that promote local products and boost exports.
State Minister of Finance Semerita Sewasew, CEO of the Ethiopian Industrial Park Development Corporation, Aklilu Tadesse, President of the Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectorial Association, Melaku Ezezew, President of the Addis Ababa Chamber of Commerce and Sectorial Association, Mesenbet Shenkute, Minister Counselor Yang Yihang, and Wu Lanlan, Vice Chairperson of the Beijing Council for the Promotion of International Trade, also emphasized China’s pivotal role as Ethiopia’s leading investment and trading partner, encouraging collaborative partnerships with Ethiopian enterprises.
The conference was attended by over 200 participants from government officials and business communities from both countries, culminating in the signing of 6 MOUs between different institutions and enterprises. These included agreements at the chamber and association level and between companies aimed at enhancing business exchanges and deepening cooperation in trade and investment.
A B2B matchmaking session concluded the event, facilitating networking among more than 140 Ethiopian companies to explore further collaboration opportunities.
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