Addis Ababa, January 1, 2025 (FMC) – Evgeny Terekhin, the Russian Ambassador to Ethiopia, has highlighted the significant developments in relations between Russia and Ethiopia during the year 2024 in a New Year’s message on social media. The year marked Ethiopia’s first participation in the BRICS Summit as a full member, having officially joined the group in January 2024.
Ambassador Evgeny noted that Ethiopia’s involvement in the BRICS Summit in Kazan, which occurred in October, was led by a high-level delegation headed by Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed. During the summit, discussions focused on establishing a more balanced and equitable global order, with Ethiopia contributing valuable perspectives that represented its national interests.
The ambassador stressed the importance of the BRICS group, which comprises nations accounting for one-third of the global economy and nearly half of the world’s population. He expressed optimism that Ethiopia’s membership in BRICS would usher in a new era of political and economic opportunities on the international stage.
According to the Ambassador, the political dialogue between Russia and Ethiopia has intensified, marked by trust-based exchanges at high levels. He pointed to a productive meeting between President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed during the Kazan Summit, emphasizing their discussion of long-standing historical ties and the potential for increased economic cooperation through the BRICS platform.
The ambassador mentioned efforts to enhance awareness among Russian and Ethiopian business communities regarding mutual opportunities, noting the establishment of communication systems to strengthen trade relations. He referenced the Russia-Ethiopia Business Forum held in November, aimed at showcasing Ethiopia’s macroeconomic reforms and its attractiveness as an investment destination.
Throughout 2024, notable agreements were signed in various sectors, including education, healthcare, climate change, and nuclear engineering. Evgeny also announced a significant increase in the number of Ethiopian students sponsored by the Russian government, a response to the growing interest among Ethiopian youth in accessing quality Russian education.
Additionally, the Russian Center for Science and Culture in Addis Ababa is set to continue its role in promoting Russian culture through a variety of events designed to engage the Ethiopian populace. The ambassador reiterated that the partnership between Russia and Ethiopia is rooted in friendship, mutual respect, and shared interests, underscoring Ethiopia’s balanced approach to international issues.