Prime Minister H.E. Abiy Ahmed (PhD) met with Chinese Premier H.E. Li Qiang during the Fourth Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in China. Their discussions aimed at enhancing the Ethiopia-China All-Weather Strategic Partnership and exploring new cooperation avenues.

The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to peace and development, leveraging the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and FOCAC frameworks. Prime Minister Abiy expressed gratitude for China’s support and reaffirmed Ethiopia’s adherence to the One-China policy.

Key cooperation areas included industrialization, infrastructure development, and the digital economy. Agreements were made to establish Special Economic Zones and Free Trade Zones in Ethiopia, boosting industrial capacity and technology transfer. Both countries also committed to partnerships in the digital economy and agricultural modernization.

Financial cooperation was discussed, with Ethiopia appreciating China’s debt re-profiling support under the G-20 Common Framework. The leaders emphasized joint efforts to promote peace and security in the Horn of Africa.

Premier Li Qiang reiterated China’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s talent development through educational programs and scholarships, aiming to equip Ethiopian youth with essential skills for socio-economic transformation.