Addis Ababa, December 13, 2024 (FMC) – Annageldi Saparov, Turkmenistan’s Minister of Energy, has praised Ethiopia for its significant contributions to advancing regional integration through renewable energy initiatives across Africa.
Annageldi Saparov made these remarks during a meeting with Jemal Beker Abdula, Ethiopia’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Turkmenistan, who is currently visiting Ashgabat. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral, regional, and multilateral cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, research, innovation, and sustainable development.
During their conversation, both officials highlighted Ethiopia’s strategic role in promoting green and sustainable development across the continent, noting the importance of energy connections with neighboring countries.
Ambassador Jemal elaborated on the ongoing structural reforms by the Ethiopian government aimed at harnessing the country’s renewable energy potential, particularly in water, solar, and geothermal resources, which contribute to nearly 98 percent of Ethiopia’s energy production being clean and sustainable.
He elaborated that Ethiopia is positioning itself as a key energy hub in Africa, with current energy exports to various regional markets. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), set to operate soon with a generation capacity of approximately 5,150 MW, will further enhance regional energy integration. The GERD, he noted, is built on principles of fair resource use and aligns with Ethiopia’s commitment to pan-African values.
In addition, the Ambassador highlighted the Green Legacy Initiative, introduced by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD), as a prime example of pan-Africanism, underscoring its efforts to promote environmental restoration, food security, and sustainable development in the region.
With Ethiopia’s vast renewable energy potential, he encouraged Turkmenistan’s business community to explore investment opportunities in this sector.
In conclusion, both sides expressed their shared commitment to strengthening cooperation aimed at fostering prosperity for their nations.