Ethiopia Fulfilling Role in East Africa’s Integration for Development, Peace

Addis Ababa: Ethiopia has been fulfilling its role in connecting the East African region with mutual development benefits and ensuring peace, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs.African Affairs Director-General, Fisseha Shawel told ENA that Ethiopia's foreign policy places a high priority on fostering positive and cooperative relationships with neighboring countries.This strategic approach prioritizes enhancing bilateral and regional cooperation in various domains, including political diplomacy, economic partnerships, security collaboration, cultural exchanges, and environmental sustainability.By prioritizing its neighbors, the director general aims to promote regional stability, mutual prosperity, and sustainable development initiatives that benefit all parties involved.This proactive stance underscores Ethiopia's commitment to addressing shared challenges, promoting peace, and harnessing collective strengths to achieve common goals within the Horn of Africa and beyond.According to Fisseha, Et hiopia is eager to pursue development in close cooperation with its neighbors and to contribute to East Africa's integration, aiming for positive development outcomes and enduring peace.The country's relations with its neighbors in the political, economic, and social spheres are extensive and robust, and these efforts are growing stronger over time, he added.The director-general stated that the countries are obtaining various infrastructures such as power supply, railway lines, telecommunications, and water pipelines from Ethiopia.Sudan, South Sudan, Kenya and Djibouti are, for example, receiving energy directly from Ethiopia.The director general emphasized that Ethiopia plays a pivotal role in the region, highlighting ongoing efforts to strengthen its influence and impact.Ethiopia is thus fulfilling its role in integrating the region with mutual benefit of development and sustainable peace.Fisseha emphasized that all Ethiopian national projects take neighboring countries into consideration, and u pon completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, these neighboring countries will benefit significantly from increased energy resources.Therefore Ethiopia will continue to strengthen its role for sustainable peace by ensuring development through cooperation among the countries of the region.Source: Ethiopian News Agency