Ethiopia, US aim to boost security and economic cooperation to strengthen bilateral relations

Addis Ababa, November 18, 2024 (FBC) — The State Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Ambassador Mesganu Arga, met with the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Africa, Sudan, and South Sudan, Vincent D. Spera, at his office today.

During the meeting, Ambassador Mesganu emphasized the strategic cooperation between Ethiopia and the U.S. in terms of peace and security, noting that the relationship between the two countries should be further strengthened through economic cooperation.

Ambassador Mesganu highlighted Ethiopia’s comprehensive economic reforms, which have created a favorable investment climate, and stressed the importance of the U.S. government focusing on economic issues to encourage U.S. companies to invest in Ethiopia.

The discussions also covered the current situation in the Horn of Africa, with Ambassador Mesganu emphasizing the strong cooperation between Ethiopia and the U.S. in combating terrorism and advocating for this partnership to continue and be strengthened.

The State Minister provided a briefing to the Deputy Assistant Secretary on the current situations in Sudan and Somalia.

On his part, Vincent D. Spera acknowledged the historic nature of the relationship between Ethiopia and the U.S., emphasizing that the existing cooperation in security and development should be further reinforced.

He further recognized Ethiopia’s key role in the region and stated that efforts would be made to enhance bilateral relations, particularly in the economic sector.

The Deputy Assistant Secretary also noted that the African Union and IGAD play critical roles, especially regarding the situation in Sudan.