Ethiopia, China Agree to Establish All-Weather Strategic Cooperation Partnership

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and China have agreed to further heighten the existing excellent bilateral relationship to all-Weather Strategic Partnership, Finance Minister, Ahmed Shide said.

Following the discussion Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and President Xi Jinping held on bilateral issues, they have agreed to elevate the existing comprehensive and enduring strategic cooperative Partnership to an ‘All-Weather Strategic Cooperation Partnership.’

China enjoys an all-weather strategic cooperation partnership with few countries in the world, Ahmed stated, adding that it is a great achievement for Ethiopia to be selected from Africa.

“It means that the relationship between Ethiopia and China; first, they have agreed to sustainably cooperate both in good and challenging times, ensuring strategic strong partnership based on mutual benefit which is not only to economic cooperation but also to security and defense cooperation,” the minister elaborated.

He added that President Xi Jinping said that China will support Ethiopia’s effort in maintaining peace and security in the Horn of Africa as well its effort for regional economic integration.

Noting Ethiopia’s significant role in the peace and security of the Horn of Africa region, Xi added that his country, as part of security cooperation, will provide capacity building support.

Xi Jinping also commended the achievements of the Green Legacy initiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the finance minister said, noting that the president vowed to support the next phase of Addis Ababa City Administration’s River Side Development Project.

Appreciating Premier Abiy’s efforts to ensure comprehensive economic development, President Xi pledged to extend China’s support.

Discussions conducted on issues of Ethiopia’s debt relief and restructure were among the achievements, the finance minister said.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency