Ethiopia, China Demonstrate Transformative Power of Mutual Respect & Shared Vision

Addis Ababa January 12/2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s State Minister of Foreign Affairs Mesganu Arga stressed need to reaffirm commitment to the principles that have guided the partnership between Ethiopia and China over the last 55 years—trust, equality, and shared prosperity.

Ethiopia and China celebrated the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and the Chinese New Year, the Year of the Wood Snake at the Friendship Park today in Addis Ababa.

The event was colorfully celebrated with vibrant cultural shows, charity bazar of Chinese companies in Ethiopia in which its sales proceedings will be donated to Dibora Foundation, a respected local organization dedicated to improving the lives of disabled youth in Ethiopia. 

During the occasion, the state minister pointed out “Today, at the iconic Friendship Square, a space that vividly symbolizes the enduring friendship and mutual trust between our two nations—we gather to reflect on the remarkable journey that Ethiopia and China have traversed together.”

Since our diplomatic ties on November 24, 1970, our relationship has flourished, evolving into an All-Weather Strategic Partnership based on trust, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to progress and prosperity, he elaborated.

He recalled the partnership was further elevated in October 2023, during the historic visit of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Beijing.

“Together with President Xi Jinping, our leaders reaffirmed their commitment to high-level exchanges, deeper political trust, and expanded cooperation in key areas such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), green development, cultural exchange,” he elaborated.

 

He added these agreements solidify the unshakable foundation of our partnership, demonstrating its resilience amidst changing global dynamics.

Beyond economics, our partnership thrives on deep cultural ties, he said.

To this end, he pointed out key achievements, including China's role as Ethiopia's largest trading partner, significant infrastructure developments, and contributions to Ethiopia's human capital development.

He further assured Ethiopia's commitment to deepening collaboration with China in key sectors and areas of cooperation. 

Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia, Chen Hai said all the incomes from the Chinese made items in the bazar will be donated to Deborah Foundation.

 

“Over the past five decades, people from both countries have been working hard, fostering continued growth in bilateral relations,” he said.

He stressed the need to move forward towards modernization with every actor playing key role in this journey.

The Ambassador emphasized that the friendship between the two countries is timeless and continues to grow stronger over time.

He affirmed China's commitment to further enhancing its relationship with Ethiopia in trade, investment, education, science, and technology.

 

The event featured cultural performances by groups from both countries. A bazaar showcasing various products was also opened to the public, with proceeds going toward supporting the Debora Foundation.

The 55th anniversary will be used as a new standing point to implement the outcome of the FOCAC Beijing Summit and the consensus reached by our national leaders and work together with our Ethiopian friends, the ambassador added.