Ethiopian, Indian leaders agree to strengthen political, economic cooperation

Addis Ababa, August 24, 2023 (FBC) – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) today held a discussion with the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the BRICS-Africa Outreach & BRICS Plus meeting, in Johannesburg, South Africa.

In a mutual expression of commitment to deepening relations, especially with Ethiopia’s entry into the BRICS group, the two leaders agreed to strengthen political cooperation as well as economic cooperation in the areas of agriculture, technology, trade and investments, the Office of the Prime Minister said.

PM Abiy noted that Ethiopia-India contemporary relations span seven decades while the historic ties between our countries dates back to 2000 years of recorded history.

“In our fruitful bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we have agreed to strengthen political and economic cooperation in key areas of mutual interest,” he said.

Prime Minister Abiy and First Lady Zinash Tayachew accompanied by a ministerial delegation arrived on Wednesday in Johannesburg, South Africa ahead of the BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue.

Recall that on Wednesday afternoon, Prime Minister Abiy met with Chinese President Xi Jinping in a bilateral meeting, where the two leaders expressed mutual interest in further strengthening the relations between both countries and commitment to partnership in multilateral platforms.

“Ethiopia is grateful for the immense support that China has provided over the years. The Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership between our two countries is a strong basis for mutual growth and development in many areas. I reiterated to President Xi Jinping our continued commitment to strengthening Ethiopia-China relations,” said PM Abiy.

For his part, President Xi Jinping expressed admiration for the Prime Minister’s leadership in spearheading national development and vowed to support progress in peace and development endeavors, in the areas of reconstruction as well as in enhancing investments and trade ties. He also indicated that China will suspend payments on debt maturing in the period 2023/2024 as part of the common framework agreement.

Furthermore, in an historic moment, Ethiopia’s bid to join the BRICS family was endorsed this morning during the 15th BRICS Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa.