Ethiopia, China to strengthen cooperation for socio-economic benefits of citizens 

Addis Ababa, September 26, 2024 (FBC) – Ethiopia and China have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in activities that ensure the socio-economic benefits of their citizens.

Women and Social Affairs Minister Ergoge Tesfaye and Vice Minister of Society Work Department of CPC Central Committee, and Head Chinese Delegation, Zhao Shitang discussed ways to enhance cooperation in volunteer services and development projects.

In the discussion, the general situation of volunteer services in Ethiopia and the results obtained were discussed. The discussion also highlighted about the roles of Chinese companies in Ethiopia.

Women and Social Affairs Minister, Ergoge Tesfaye on the occasion stated the historic and long-standing relationship between Ethiopia and China.

Many Chinese companies are bringing socio-economic benefits by engaging in various fields in Ethiopia allowing the relationship between the countries to be placed on a firm foundation, she noted.

During the discussion, the minister pointed about working in cooperation with the Chinese government, especially in terms of social services and supporting the vulnerable sections of the society, stating that the two countries have been undertaking similar volunteer activities.

The two officials also mentioned that they will sign a Memorandum of Understanding and start working on projects that can benefit the vulnerable sections of the society.

China reached an agreement to build 1,000 villages in Africa at the China Africa Economic Forum last year.

The villages are built in a way that is convenient for the residents by accommodating various social services.

On the occasion, the two sides entertained the idea about strengthening this project so that Ethiopia gets the share it deserves from these villages. The project will benefit poor and vulnerable sections of societies, Ergogie pointed out.

The minister stated that fruitful discussion was held on the cooperation of volunteer programs and projects that strengthen the people-to-people relations, as reported by ENA.

Vice Minister of Society Work Department of CPC Central Committee, and Head Chinese Delegation, Zhao Shitang on his part expressed excitement about his first time visit to the country, witnessing the development works during the three days in Addis Ababa.