Chinese President Xi Jinping has hailed the strong ties between China and Ethiopia as a shining example of friendly cooperation between China and Africa. During a meeting on Wednesday with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali in Beijing, Xi emphasized the “unbreakable iron-clad friendship” forged through mutual support and opposition to external interference.
Prime Minister Abiy is in Beijing for the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). Xi noted that the longstanding relationship between the two countries is built on a foundation of respect for core interests and a shared vision for development.
“China stands ready to take the FOCAC summit as an opportunity to expand pragmatic cooperation between our countries,” Xi stated. He expressed support for Ethiopia’s role as a regional transport hub in East Africa and proposed establishing a rail-sea intermodal transport network, aiming to build a demonstration area for high-quality Belt and Road cooperation between China and Africa.
Furthermore, Xi highlighted China’s willingness to enhance communication and collaboration with Ethiopia both regionally and within international frameworks such as the United Nations and BRICS, to jointly uphold international fairness and justice.
Prime Minister Abiy expressed appreciation for China’s policies toward Ethiopia, noting that they “fully demonstrate equality and mutual respect.” He acknowledged the significant contributions of Chinese investments to Ethiopia’s economic and social development.
“Ethiopia is willing to work with China to continue the firm mutual support and promote our all-weather strategic partnership to yield more results,” Abiy affirmed.
Reference(s):
Xi: China, Ethiopia set example for friendly China-Africa cooperation
cgtn.com
