China, Ethiopia seek to take comprehensive strategic cooperation to highest level

Addis Ababa, November 1, 2023 (FBC) – Ethiopia’s State Minister of Finance for Economic Cooperation, Semereta Sewasew, met with YANG Yihang, Minister Counsellor for Economic and Commercial Affairs, the Embassy of China in Ethiopia to discuss ways of enhancing bilateral cooperation.

The two sides explored ways how to elevate the ongoing economic cooperation between Ethiopia and China.

Furthermore, YANG Yihang affirmed China’s pledge to deliver emergency food assistance worth 4.1 million USD to Ethiopia, calling on the Ethiopian side to present the details regarding the required support needed.

It is indicated on the occasion that out of 21 million USD worth of spare parts promised by the Chinese government for Addis Ababa Light Rail Transit, the items worth 3 million USD have already arrived in the city and are in the process of delivery.

Likewise, the purchase and supply of spare parts needed for the Addis Ababa-Djibouti train will also be carried out, according to YANG Yihang.

Regarding investments to promote green development, Minister Counsellor YANG Yihang stated that the China has signed MoU with 30 countries including Ethiopia, adding that works will be carried in Ethiopia based on specifications to be forwarded by the Chinese government.

The transition of economic cooperation between Ethiopia and China into a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership would encourage Chinese companies to intensify their investments in Ethiopia, it was said during the discussion.

It was also raised during the discussion that the comprehensive strategic cooperation would also help China and Ethiopia to cement their solidarity on issues that are against their national interests on the international diplomatic platforms.