Addis Ababa – Ethiopia and Malaysia have announced the commencement of a new era of economic cooperation, marked by the signing of several key agreements. The agreements, focusing on tourism, healthcare, air transport, and trade, were finalized at the conclusion of the inaugural Ethiopia-Malaysia High-Level Economic Cooperation Forum held in Addis Ababa.
The forum was co-chaired by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie. A significant outcome of the forum was the establishment of a sister-city relationship between Addis Ababa and Kuala Lumpur, further solidifying ties between the two nations.
During a joint press conference with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the importance of the partnership. Prime Minister Ahmed stated that Ethiopia aims to serve as Malaysia’s gateway to Africa, while Malaysia will act as Ethiopia’s entry point to Asia. He expressed Ethiopia’s desire to leverage Malaysia’s expertise in investment and manufacturing.
Prime Minister Ahmed highlighted that the newly signed agreements lay the foundation for enhanced relations, facilitating the utilization of Malaysian expertise to bolster the Ethiopian economy, develop training programs, and create employment opportunities for young people.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reiterated Malaysia’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Ethiopia, viewing the nation as a crucial bridge to Africa. He stated, “We seek to establish genuine cooperation with Africa and are eager to share our expertise to advance the continent, build a strong economy, and strengthen the partnership between Africa and Asia.”
He further announced Malaysia’s intention to make investments in Africa and explore new markets in both Africa and Latin America, pledging to leverage Malaysia’s resources and relationships for the benefit of Africa. Prime Minister Ibrahim underscored Ethiopia’s significance to Malaysia, noting its historical role as the host of the first and second migrations in Islam, holding a special place in the hearts of Muslims.
Prime Minister Ibrahim declared the forum as the beginning of a new chapter in bilateral relations, evidenced by the signing of multiple agreements and the impending opening of embassies in both Addis Ababa and Kuala Lumpur. The forum concluded with a call to Ethiopian and Malaysian investors and industry leaders to utilize this platform as a roadmap for strengthening economic partnerships based on innovation and development.
