Addis Ababa, December 27, 2022 (FBC) – The official visit of members of the House of People’s Representatives and government officials to Mekele, the regional capital of Tigray is an important step towards peace in Ethiopia, Japan’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, ITO Takako said.

Recall that a delegation led by Speaker of the House of People’s Representatives Tagesse Chafo, comprising ministers, heads of service providing institutions, and  National Dialogue commissioners, held a day-long visit to Mekele City yesterday.

Speaking to ENA, Japan’s Ambassador to Ethiopia Ito Takako said the visit is an important step towards peace in Ethiopia.

She stated that the Government of Japan supports the steps taken by the Ethiopian government towards peace.

According to her, the visit will help consolidate the ongoing peace effort and helps the two sides to share ideas and feelings of each other.

The Government of Japan, therefore, sees it as an important step toward peace and stability in this country.

Ethiopia is very important not only for itself but the Horn of Africa as well, Ambassador Takako said, adding that Japan will support the Ethiopian government’s effort and the national dialogue commission.

“We will continue to see in what areas Japan can assist Ethiopia in the implementation of the peace agreement,” the ambassador stated.

“Ethiopia is a very crucial country in Africa. It has the second-largest population in the entire Africa, and is also found in a strategic location, she elaborated. Therefore, we are looking for the stability of Ethiopia and the region as well.”

Besides humanitarian assistance for northern Ethiopia, Japan would like to strengthen development and cooperation with Ethiopia, she said.

“We are ready and have commitment in this area. Within the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia is very, very important; and we will be strengthening our cooperation.”

Ethiopia and Japan started diplomatic relationship in the 1930s and signed Treaty of Amity and Commerce.