Ethiopia’s eligibility to AGOA should be reinstated as suspension harms ordinary people: Rep. Buddy Carter

Addis Ababa, June 18, 2022 (FBC) – Ethiopian Ambassador to the U.S. Seleshi Bekele (PhD) met and discussed with Congressman Buddy Carter on latest developments in Ethiopia.

Ambassador Seleshi briefed Congressman Carter on the current situation in Ethiopia and the Government’s measures to facilitate humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict in Northern Ethiopia as well as Ethiopia’s endeavors in renewable energy production, which was of interest to the Congressman, who sits on the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.

Ambassador Seleshi also explained Ethiopia’s perspective on the counterproductive draft Bills (HR 6600 and S 3199) introduced at the US congress, as well as Ethiopia’s unjust suspension from the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) program.

The ambassador, in this regard, stressed that Ethiopia’s eligibility to AGOA preferential trade Act should be reinstated as its suspension is harming ordinary Ethiopians and putting companies, including those from the US, out of business.

The congressman expressed his understanding of the Ethiopian situation and affirmed that Ethiopia’s stability is important in the region and reaffirmed his commitment to work for the strengthening of the diversified ties between the two countries.