American companies asked to push for reinstatement of Ethiopia to AGOA

Addis Ababa, October 19, 2022 (FBC) – Ambassador of Ethiopia to the U.S., Seleshi Bekele jointly with the Finance State Minister Eyob Tekalign discussed with more than 50 American investors on current issues in the country.

Ambassador Seleshi briefed the investors on the impacts of the termination of Ethiopia’s eligibility in AGOA on ordinary citizens. The cancelation has deprived thousands of women in Ethiopia of jobs, he said. The AGOA termination is affecting not only Ethiopians but also forcing American investors out of their businesses, the Ambassador added.

He said the termination of the AGOA eligibility will tarnish the long-standing friendship between Ethiopia and the U.S. Ambassador Seleshi also reiterated that the Ethiopian government has an unwavering stance to resolve the conflict peacefully and improve the lives of the Ethiopian people.

The Ambassador and State Minister Eyob Tekalign called on American companies that have invested in Ethiopia to push for reinstatement of Ethiopia’s eligibility to AGOA.