China Pledges Robust Support in Ethiopia’s Modernization Efforts

ADDIS ABABA: China has reaffirmed its commitment to bolstering Ethiopia’s modernization efforts, particularly in education and other crucial sectors, as part of a long-standing partnership between the two nations. In a panel discussion held in Addis Ababa titled “New Opportunities for China-Ethiopia Cooperation in the Joint Pursuit of Modernization,” Chinese Vice Minister of Education, Wu Yan, emphasized the enduring bilateral ties and pledged increased collaboration.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, Vice Minister Wu Yan highlighted the significant achievements in political, economic, cultural, and trade exchanges over the past five decades of formal relations between China and Ethiopia. He underscored the importance of continuing to strengthen these ties through joint efforts in modernization. Wu Yan expressed China’s appreciation for Ethiopia’s independent socio-economic development under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and reiterated China’s support in various sectors, including education, science and techno
logy, digitalization, and the green economy.

Tesfahun Gobezay, Deputy Head of Public and International Relations for the Prosperity Party, emphasized the deep-rooted trade and cultural exchanges between the two nations, stating that China is Ethiopia’s primary source of imports, foreign direct investment, labor, and scholarships. He highlighted the strong governmental and party relationships, noting that the Prosperity Party seeks to learn from the strengths of the Chinese Communist Party and is committed to further enhancing diplomatic ties for mutual benefit.

Melaku Mulualem, Head of Training Directorate at the Institute of Foreign Affairs, praised China’s path to modernization as a model for Ethiopia and other developing countries. He pointed to Chinese President Xi Jinping’s global development and security initiatives as effective frameworks for promoting modernization across the global south, including Ethiopia.