Addis Ababa, July 31, 2024 (FBC) – The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan on Wednesday explored various avenues to strengthen bilateral and multilateral cooperation in different areas such as defense and aviation, the Embassy of Ethiopia in Islamabad stated in a press note sent to FBC.
The matter came under discussion during a meeting between Jemal Beker, Ambassador of Ethiopia to Pakistan, and Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Minister for Defense and Aviation of Pakistan.
Both sides also discussed full spectrum of ongoing bilateral, regional and multilateral cooperation between the two brotherly countries.
During the meeting, Ambassador Jemal Beker expressed his gratitude for a continued support of the Government of Pakistan to the Government of Ethiopia at bilateral and multilateral level.
The Ambassador briefed the minister on ongoing economic reforms carried out by the Government of Ethiopia to achieve macroeconomic stability, attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), increasing productivity and job creation.
He also apprised the minister about relief and rescue efforts carried out in Gofa region of Ethiopia for permanent relocation of the affected persons.
Expressing his condolences for the loss of lives in landslide incidents in Gofa region of South Ethiopia region, the minister reiterated his government’s commitment and support to the people and Government of Ethiopia in difficult times.
Khawaja Asif further expressed his government’s commitment to increase its presence in the African continent of more than 1.4 billion people and untapped resources.
The Minister recognized pivotal role of Ethiopia in effective implementation of “Look Africa and Engage Africa” policy of the Government of Pakistan that gives utmost priority to Ethiopia which is a gate way to Africa.
Moreover, Khawaja Asif appreciated arrival of the Ethiopian Airlines in Karachi which has given a major boost to the bilateral relations of the two countries especially people-to-people and business-to-business ties between Ethiopia and Pakistan as well connect the rest of Africa.
He also lauded economic progress achieved by Ethiopia under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed who successfully implemented “Homegrown Economic Reforms” for peace and prosperity in the country.