Chinese official highlights FOCAC’s role in China-Ethiopia relations

Addis Ababa, Sep 5 (Prensa Latina) The chargé d'affaires of the Chinese embassy in Ethiopia, Shen Qinmin, highlighted the fact that the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) plays a fundamental role in further boosting bilateral relationship between both countries.

September 5, 2024
08:21

Qinmin told the Ethiopian News Agency that Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s participation in FOCAC 2024 and talks with President Xi Jinping and senior Chinese authorities will shape the future ties direction.

The Chargé d’affaires recalled that last October Ahmed and Xi raised bilateral relationship to a new level, known as the All-Weather Strategic Partnership, and specified that the forum will address issues related to state governance, industrialization and agricultural modernization, high-quality cooperation of the Strip and the Road, peace and security, which is a valuable opportunity for the leaders of Ethiopia and China, together with other African countries, to exchange experiences and discuss key policies.

Qinmin considered that in addition to being a large and strong country in Africa, Ethiopia is also a gateway to the continent. “Ethiopian Airlines has played a fundamental role in the African continent. Ethiopia as a country also serves as a gateway role, because I believe that not only China, but also other Asian states can enter the African market today,” he added.

The diplomat mentioned the country’s strategic position, in addition to its deep relationship with Beijing, which will give the latter more opportunities to interact with the rest of Africa. Moreover, he highlighted China’s goal of promoting peace and security through development and shared governance, rather than traditional methods.

“China is promoting a concept of peace and security through development and shared governance. That is our unique role for China. We are not talking about peace and security traditionally. We are talking about how we can use development as a tool and basis to improve peace and security,” added Qinmin, who reassured the commitment to supporting economic integration and development in Africa, aligning with the African Union’s drive for a continental free trade zone that complements China’s Belt and Road initiatives.

“I believe that cooperation between China and Africa contributes and leads to the integration of the African continent in their mutual and beneficial interaction with each other. I believe that the FOCAC summit has a more important role for the future integration of the African continent,” the diplomat stated.

jrr/llp/jf/nmr