Holds productive deliberations with Zimbabwe, Burundi
ADDIS ABABA- Ethiopia's Foreign Minister Taye Atskeselassie signed cooperation agreements with Angolan senior diplomat Téte António that are believed to deepen the two countries relations and held a productive consultation with his Zimbabwean counterpart Federic Shava.
The parties signed the agreements at the sidelines of the 44th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union here yesterday.
Ambassador Fisseha Shawel, Director General of the African Affairs Directorate of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, who attended the sessions, stated that the agreement with Angola aims to bolster bilateral relations and promote joint efforts in multilateral forums.
The two ministers signed a General Cooperation Agreement covering various fields, as well as a Memorandum on Political Consultation, marking a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Angola, he added.
Ambassador Fisseha further emphasized the importance of the cooperation agreement, indicating it would facilitate a more effective partnership between Ethiopian and Angolan institutions. Additionally, the political subdivision accord would facilitate regular consultations and further strengthen the relationship between the two countries.
"Both Ethiopia and Angola have successfully transitioned to democratic systems, leading to remarkable economic growth and prosperity. Acknowledging the potential for even greater achievements, the two countries foreign ministers emphasized the necessity of increased cooperation to leverage their strengths."
Ambassador Jorge Catarino Cardoso, who is Director of the Africa, Middle East and Regional Organizations Directorate of the Angolan Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed confidence that the signed agreement would foster cooperation in various areas and align the two countries' political agendas.
"The longstanding relationship between Ethiopia and Angola has laid a strong foundation for this collaboration, and both nations are eager to explore new opportunities for mutual benefit."
Similarly, FM Taye Atskeselassie met with his Zimbabwean counterpart Federic Shava to discuss bilateral and multilateral issues of mutual significance. During their deliberation, the two officials expressed commitment to seek ways to invigorate the Ethio-Zimbabwe cooperation in various sectors including agriculture, tourism, mining, and others and maximize mutual benefit.
Ambassador Taye also exchanged views with his Burundian counterpart Albert Shingiro on matters of bilateral and multilateral interests. The focus of the meeting was to highlight the shared goals and priorities of both nations, emphasizing the importance of strengthening fraternal ties that will contribute to mutual growth and prosperity.
It was stated in the discussion that Ethiopia's increased collaboration in various sectors will not only benefit the two countries directly involved but also contribute to the overall stability and progress of Africa. "Also, these positive steps highlight the potential for further constructive engagement among African nations and set the stage for a brighter future of cooperation, peace, and development across the continent."
In a related development, Foreign Affairs State Minister Mesganu Arga held talks yesterday with Libya's Deputy Foreign Minister Mohammed Issa at the sidelines of the AU 44th Executive Council meeting.
The meeting is said to have resulted in significant agreements that pave the way for closer cooperation between the two countries. Accordingly, consensus was reached to review existing mechanisms and develop a framework for conducting political consultations.
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The parties expressed their mutual interest to engage in regular dialogue and exchange ideas, aiming to deepen their understanding of each other's perspectives and facilitate cooperation on various regional and international affairs.
More importantly, Ethiopia and Libya reached an agreement to enhance their cooperation in the aviation industry that sets up opportunities for joint initiatives including the establishment of direct air links, the promotion of tourism, and the facilitation of trade and movement of people.
Additionally, the two countries agreed to advance their cooperation in the labor sector which is expected to create more jobs, foster skills development, and facilitate the exchange of expertise.
