Addis Ababa, September 17, 2024 (FBC) – Ethiopia is playing a pivotal role in the horn of Africa region and the African continent at large, according to the President of the Horn of Africa Friendship Group of the Parliament of France, Senator Hugues Saury.
The French official made this remark during a meeting with Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie, earlier today.
During the course of the conversation with the French high-level delegation, Foreign Minister Taye reiterated the longstanding diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and France. He also commended the strong ties between the sisterly countries in the areas of development cooperation, trade, investment and culture.
He also mentioned the fact that, the Horn of Africa commands the attention of various actors due to its key geostrategic locus and geopolitical significance.
Ambassador Taye also noted, Ethiopia as a country with a fast-growing population and ever-expanding economy, it is imperative that it guarantees a sustainable access to the sea through give and take and peaceful means to meet the rising demands of its citizens.
Speaking of the post-ATMIS scenario in neighbouring Somalia, the Foreign Minister briefed the French high-level delegation on the need to carefully consider the possible deployment of a multinational peace-keeping force in the country.
Mr. Hugues Saury, on his part said, Ethiopia is an anchor state that continues to play a pivotal role in regional and continental affairs of shared importance. He added, respective governments need to work closely to further enhance the bilateral relations between France and Ethiopia.
Senator Saury is the Secretary of the Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Armed Forces of the Senate of the French Republic. The French Delegation led by Mr. Saury included France Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ambassador Alexis Lamek, Friendship Group with the Horn of Africa Vice-President, Senator Mr Raphaël Daubet, Friendship Group with the Horn of Africa Vice-President, Senator Mrs Laurence Harribey, Friendship Group with the Horn of Africa Secretary, Mr Xavier Dupriez and First secretary Charlelie Marie, as reported by MFA Ethiopia.