Ethiopia Expands Bilateral, Multilateral Diplomatic Engagements

Addis ababa: Ethiopia is intensifying its bilateral and multilateral diplomatic engagements aimed at strengthening international partnerships and safeguarding the interests of Ethiopian citizens abroad. Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced this strategic initiative through a press briefing by Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Ambassador Nebiat Getachew, highlighting the country's commitment to enhancing political, economic, and strategic relations with key global partners.According to Ethiopian News Agency, a delegation led by Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos held extensive discussions in Washington, D.C., focusing on deepening Ethiopia-United States relations. A significant outcome of these discussions was the signing of a Bilateral Structured Dialogue (BSD) Framework Agreement by Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Political Affairs Alison Hooker. This agreement establishes cooperation in economic prosperity, trade and investment, defense and security collaborati on, and regional peace and stability.Further, Minister Gedion engaged with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to explore ways to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance regional cooperation. The Ethiopian delegation also met with experts at the Hudson Institute, presenting Ethiopia's economic outlook, geopolitical developments in the Horn of Africa, and the country's approach to regional and international cooperation.Ambassador Nebiat reiterated Ethiopia's commitment to pursuing sea access through peaceful diplomatic engagement. On the multilateral front, Ethiopia commemorated the 80th anniversary of the United Nations by unveiling a commemorative stamp collection under the theme 'Living Together in Peace,' launched by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres. The stamps commemorate significant milestones in Ethiopia-UN relations, reflecting Ethiopia's longstanding commitment to multilateral diplomacy and global peace efforts.Regarding relations with France, th e spokesperson highlighted French President Emmanuel Macron's recent visit, which resulted in agreements focused on renewable and sustainable energy cooperation, particularly in geothermal energy development. Ethiopia also engaged with BRICS, with Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos participating in the BRICS Foreign Ministers' Meeting in India, emphasizing coordinated multilateral diplomacy for a fair and inclusive international system.In discussions with South Africa, Ethiopian officials addressed the wellbeing and protection of Ethiopian nationals living there. Minister Gedion Timothewos met with South Africa's Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola, agreeing to work jointly to address challenges facing Ethiopians in South Africa. During these talks, the importance of ensuring the safety and protection of Ethiopian citizens was stressed.Additionally, Foreign Minister Gedion held discussions with Saudi Arabia's Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Waleed Elkhereiji, focusing on ex panding legal employment opportunities and enhancing the welfare and protection of Ethiopian nationals in Saudi Arabia.