Chinese Premier Li Qiang expressed China’s readiness to work with Ethiopia to ensure the sustainable development of the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway, a flagship project under the Belt and Road Initiative. He also emphasized the importance of expanding bilateral trade and investment during a meeting with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.
Li noted that over the past 55 years of diplomatic relations, China and Ethiopia have consistently maintained sincere and supportive ties, regardless of global shifts. He highlighted that their partnership has remained a leading example in China-Africa cooperation.
Referring to the recent Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators for the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), Li mentioned President Xi Jinping’s announcement of new initiatives, including zero-tariff treatment for all tariff lines for 53 African countries with diplomatic relations with China.
Li emphasized that China will leverage these new measures to fully implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit in collaboration with Ethiopia, enhancing the depth and scope of their cooperation.
Calling for deeper, comprehensive cooperation, Li proposed making China-Ethiopia relations a model for the broader China-Africa community with a shared future in the new era.
He affirmed China’s support for Ethiopia’s independent development path and proposed enhanced collaboration in areas such as infrastructure, electric vehicles, green technology, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, tourism, youth, and education.
Acknowledging both countries as key members of the Global South, Li said China looks forward to working closely with Ethiopia within platforms like the United Nations and BRICS. The goal is to uphold multilateralism, support global economic integration and free trade, and contribute to greater global stability and positive momentum.
Premier Li made these remarks during his visit to Rio de Janeiro, where he is attending the 17th BRICS Summit.
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