Ethiopia a land of opportunities, tremendous potentials: Chinese Ambassador Chen Hai
Addis Ababa, January 16, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia and China have recently celebrated the 55th Anniversary of their diplomatic relations with various cultural events at the Friendship Square in Addis Ababa.
In an exclusive interview with Fana Digital, Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia, Chen Hai, described the commemorative event as a very symbolic moment showcasing the achievements of China and Ethiopia gained over the past decades.
“Cultural exchange is very important for our two countries to enhance their longstanding ties. This event is paramount in this regard. As we embark on the New Year, I reaffirm China’s commitment to further strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchanges with Ethiopia for a brighter future,” the Ambassador stated.
“Our countries share a very traditional friendship, and it is a new era of strengthened partnership under our national leaders. We are sharing development opportunities towards a brighter future,” the Ambassador said.
Emphasizing China’s role as a key development partner for Ethiopia, he noted the presence of thousands of Chinese companies in the country, which are enhancing socio-economic development, creating job opportunities, and improving livelihoods.
“Chinese communities in Ethiopia are encouraged to beef up investments and fulfill their social responsibilities. The support of Chinese companies in Ethiopia to the Deborah Foundation during the 55th Anniversary commemoration is part of this commitment,” he added.
Referencing President Xi Jinping’s assertion that “no single country or individual is left behind in China’s modernization journey,” the Ambassador reaffirmed his country’s dedication to strengthening relations with Ethiopia across social, economic, political, and diplomatic domains.
He highlighted that over the last 10 years, since the inception of the Belt and Road Initiative, Ethiopia has been a crucial partner for China in both national and continental implementation efforts. Chinese companies have constructed vital infrastructure projects like the light railway in Addis Ababa and the Ethiopia-Djibouti Railway, contributing to Ethiopia’s aspirations of becoming an emerging economic hub in the region.
Many Chinese firms, including CCCC, have played a significant role in supporting the enhancement of social infrastructures, railways, highways, and electricity supply facilities in Ethiopia.
The Chinese government expresses appreciation for the efforts made by the Ethiopian government to facilitate a conducive investment climate for its investors and companies.
“Ethiopia is a land of opportunities and tremendous potential for shared development aspirations, and Chinese companies are ready to seize these potentials,” the Ambassador stated, reinforcing confidence in the flourishing investment cooperation between Ethiopia and China in the years to come as Ethiopia implements ambitious economic reforms and opens its market for foreign investments, presenting even more opportunities for Chinese investors.