The Ethiopian Embassy in Beijing transformed into a vibrant hub of cross-cultural exchange on Thursday, marking 55 years of diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and China. Traditional drumbeats echoed through the venue as performers clad in colorful habesha kemis dresses and embroidered shawls showcased Ethiopia's artistic legacy through dynamic dances and acrobatic displays.
Attendees experienced Ethiopia's famed coffee ceremony – a UNESCO-recognized tradition symbolizing friendship – while exploring exhibits on ancient Axumite artifacts and modern Ethiopian art. 'This event bridges our civilizations,' remarked an Ethiopian diplomat, noting that 2024 also marks 50 years since China completed the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway, a landmark infrastructure project.
The cultural roadshow will next visit Shanghai and Guangzhou, with organizers highlighting plans to double Chinese tourist arrivals to Ethiopia by 2026 through new visa incentives and direct flights. Academic exchanges between Addis Ababa University and Peking University are also being expanded under a new partnership framework signed during the event.
