Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, held key discussions with China’s Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Ambassador Xue Bing, on Tuesday afternoon. The high-level meeting underscored the deepening ties between Ethiopia and China, addressing mutual interests on bilateral, continental, and global issues, while exploring pathways for regional peace, stability, and economic development.
During the discussions, Gedion emphasized the enduring strength of the Ethio-China All-Weather Strategic Partnership, a cornerstone of diplomatic relations that has seen both nations collaborate across economic, political, and infrastructural fronts. The Minister called for continued Chinese support in Ethiopia’s pursuit of regional peace, stability, and economic growth, particularly as the Horn of Africa grapples with a complex mix of challenges ranging from political instability to economic recovery.
Highlighting Ethiopia’s ongoing reform initiatives, Gedion outlined how Ethiopia’s Home-Grown Economic Reform Agenda and its commitment to a green economy align with objectives set under the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). The Home-Grown Economic Reform agenda is Ethiopia’s blueprint for revitalizing the economy through structural adjustments, inclusive growth, and sustainable development. Its alignment with FOCAC’s broader goals of mutual economic cooperation signals Ethiopia’s intention to leverage its partnership with China for transformative progress.
“Ethiopia recognizes the invaluable role China plays in its development journey,” Gedion stated. “We seek sustained collaboration to strengthen regional peace and foster economic stability, ensuring shared prosperity across the region.”
Gedion further noted that Ethiopia’s prioritization of green development resonates with China’s growing commitment to environmentally sustainable projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). As Ethiopia continues to pursue renewable energy solutions, particularly through its extensive hydropower projects and climate-conscious policies, China’s support remains instrumental in realizing these ambitions.
Ambassador Xue Bing, in his remarks, reaffirmed China’s strong commitment to Ethiopia, emphasizing the achievements of their bilateral partnership as a model for South-South cooperation. He lauded the success of Chinese investment in Ethiopia, particularly in infrastructure, manufacturing, and trade, and expressed confidence in the potential for even greater collaboration in the coming years.
“The relationship between China and Ethiopia is built on mutual trust, shared development goals, and a vision for regional peace,” Ambassador Xue said. “Our partnership has achieved significant milestones, and we look forward to further strengthening these ties through sustained, collaborative efforts.”
Ambassador Xue also reiterated China’s readiness to support Ethiopia’s peace and development priorities, particularly in the Horn of Africa, a region where China has increasingly engaged as a stabilizing actor. China’s role as a development partner has been instrumental in Ethiopia’s infrastructure growth, with projects like industrial parks, roads, and railways transforming the nation’s economic landscape.
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