Addis Ababa, April 16/2024 (ENA) Indigenous knowledge plays huge role in the development of both in modernizing governance and scientific discoveries, California University Anthropology Professor Donald L. Donham said. An on-going three-day workshop on culture and history opened at Jinka University yesterday. California University Anthropologist Professor Donham noted that Ethiopia has remarkable wealth of indigenous knowledge and cultures. The professor with over five decades of research activities across, Africa, including Ethiopia, has published books on sociological and political issues. According to him, most of his research and study years have been dedicated to Ethiopia, and believes that the country is endowed with beautiful landscapes and diverse cultures.   The paper presented by Professor Donham, "Ethiopia's Foundation and Indigenous Knowledge for Conflict Resolution," emphasizes the role of multi-culture and multiple identity for the emergence of the new Ethiopia. He explored the critical role indigenous knowledge from various cultures plays in shaping modern governance and scientific discoveries in Ethiopia. The professor also underscored the power of traditional conflict resolution methods embedded within indigenous knowledge to foster solidarity and promote lasting peace. Professor Donham finally called on universities and research institutions to actively develop and integrate these valuable systems into modern governance practices and Ethiopia's scientific advancements.   Jinka University Academic Vice President, Elias Alemu, said the aim of the workshop is to foster collaboration between historians and social scientists. He envisions that the gathering would serve as a catalyst for universities and research institutes, both within and beyond Ethiopia's borders, to work together in research endeavors.   Hawasa University Social Anthropology lecturer, Hana Getachew, on her part stressed the importance of the workshop in fostering a global exchange of knowledge and experience. She emphasizes the need for social scientists to transcend disciplinary boundaries, urging researchers to delve into diverse cultures and unearth the wealth of crucial, yet often forgotten, values embedded within them.      

Addis Ababa, April 16 /2024 (ENA) State Minister of Foreign Affairs Mesganu Arga met with the Secretary General of the Organization of Southern Cooperation (OSC) Sheik Manssour Bin Mussallam, at his office today. The two officials exchanged views on how to further enhance cooperation and ways to work closely between Ethiopia as a host and the OSC, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The OSC is based in Addis Ababa and it was established on 29 January 2020 by countries and organizations from across the Global South. As the first intergovernmental organization of and by the Greater South, the OSC acts as an instrument of intellectual, technical and financial cooperation and solidarity between its Member States as well as its Associate Members in the pursuit of a Third Way of Development – from the South, for Humanity.  

Addis Ababa, April 14 /2024 (ENA) The 3rd session of Ethiopia's BRICS Senior Officials’ Technical Committee Meeting was held, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Senior Officials, drawn from various Government institutions, reviewed the proposal for Ethiopia’s draft BRICS engagement strategy; and the levels of participation of Ethiopian institutions in the BRICS activities. The Committee also deliberated on ways to speed up Ethiopia’s smooth integration into the BRICS arrangements, advance the country’s national interest, and contribute to the consolidation of the BRICS platform. Ethiopia’s BRICS membership is part of its determination to expand the economic opportunities to propel its economic growth and contribute to further strengthening multilateralism, the ministry added.    

Addis Ababa, April 12/2024 (ENA) Ethiopia has registered grand diplomatic achievements over the last 6 years, Foreign Minister Taye Atske Selassie said today. In his opening remark to a panel discussion organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the accomplishments gained during the reform years, FM Taye said Ethiopia has prevailed despite challenges.   According to him, Ethiopia still remains the regional power pool. Through its efforts to ensure peace and security in neighboring countries, Ethiopia has played unparalleled role in maintaining stability in the Horn of Africa region, the minister noted. Joining BRICS was a remarkable achievement that will have paramount effect in uplifting the country’s diplomatic gains, the minister stated. Furthermore, FM Taye pointed out that the Green Legacy Initiative spearheaded by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed was among the very commendable achievements in terms of climate change mitigation. Had the over 32 billion trees planted through the initiative been monetized, it would have been billions of USD worth investment on environmental protection, he emphasized. The minister pointed out that political sovereignty is often eroded due to poverty, adding that Ethiopia has in this regard accelerated its journey to ensure food security through boosting production and productivity of dry season wheat. Ethiopia is currently cultivating dry season wheat on 3 million hectares of land, and is expecting to harvest 120 million quintals. FM Taye noted that this will eventually increase and break the chain of poverty and ensure food self-sufficiency. Moreover, he stressed that the reform has enabled Ethiopia to ensure its development right with regard to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) through diplomacy.        

Addis Ababa, April 11/2024 (ENA) The Council of Ministers, in its 29th regular session today has discussed various issues and passed resolutions, according to the Office of the Prime Minister (PMO). Initially, the Council deliberated on a draft bill of public service delivery and administration policy. The Statement issued by PMO stated that this public service delivery and administration policy has a paramount role in implementing and making the necessary follow up on the implementation of laws, policies and strategies as well as in accelerating the nation-state building process. Accordingly, the policy is based on seven pillars of activities on which the necessary action is to be taken. These include urgently developing free and impartial civil service delivery systems, building an inclusive and all embracing civil service, integrating public service structure and administration, ensuring efficient and accessible public service delivery systems. Moreover, the pillars comprise vital components such as developing a viable certification of competence for public servants and implementing them, developing a digital civil service delivery for acceptable and reliable services and solutions, ensuring and accelerating pragmatism approach for civil service and institution building. After its deliberation on the draft bill, the council passed a decision unanimously that the policy to become effective with additional inputs. The Council of Ministers then discussed a draft policy on small and medium enterprise development. The policy document incorporates the formation and development of micro small and medium enterprise development and it is vital to create an enabling environment for the expansion of enterprises. This would provide the necessary support for the sector with appropriate consideration to demand and supply, support regular trade and ensure their inclusive development, promoting their positive contributions to the economic development of the country. Having discussed the agenda, the Council decided the policy document to be effective. In addition, the Council deliberated on a draft decree on the Structure, duties and responsibilities of the Environmental Protection Authority. The draft decree considered the role of the authority as a regulatory body, its operational stricture, roles, tasks and building its capacity to implement ongoing environmental protection policy, laws and standards and international environmental agreements to which Ethiopia is a signatory and ensure their implementation. After incorporating additional inputs on the decree, the council unanimously decided the document to become effective as of its date of publication in the Negarit Gazette. Additionally, the Council discussed a draft bill on Ethiopian Standards. The draft bill was submitted to the council with a view to ensuring commodities and services and processes locally produced or imported must fulfill Ethiopian and international standards. And that the standards are to be implemented in the entire country and calls for the necessary coordination, accountability and transparency between regulatory bodies for the implementation of the bill. The council discussed the agreement in detail and unanimously decided to refer it to the House of Peoples’ Representative for approval. The Council of Ministers discussed a draft decree on national metrology institute, provided for enhancing the capacity of the institute in the areas of delivering internationally accredited metrology and calibration services on scientific instruments, trade and health service delivery, environmental protection and other instruments used by the public. The Council referred it for approval to the parliament after deliberations. The Council further delivered on the draft regulation to establish Ethiopian National Accreditation Office in order to promote national and international trade. The draft bill would establish a national accreditation system and to ensure healthy utilization of these services by ensuring environmental protection and safety, ensuring equitable and fair trade in the country. The Council also discussed a draft decree to reestablish Ethiopian Conformity Assessment Enterprise which would ensure the conformity of all export and import commodities through inspection, certification and by applying inspection laboratories in the enterprise. The council decided all the above decrees to be effective by its date of publication in the Negarit Gazette. Finally, the Council discussed a draft decree on the organizational structure, duties and responsibilities of Refugees and Returnees Affairs Service which would enable the service to conduct its activities in a more efficient manner. The decree provided for the protection, support and care that the country would provide for refugees and returnees based on the international agreements and conventions to which Ethiopia is a signatory. After deliberating on the draft decree, the council has unanimously decided the decree to be implemented right after it is published in the Negarit Newspaper.    

Addis Ababa, April 08/2024 (ENA) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's official visit to Kigali, Rwanda, was instrumental to forge the strategic partnership between Ethiopia and Rwanda, Head of Press Secretary at the Office of the Prime Minister, Billene Seyoum said. The press secretary gave briefings to the media on the official visit of Prime Minister Abiy Aimed to Kigali. Various activities were carried out during the visit, proving the strategic partnership between the countries, Billene stated. The premier's visit to Rwanda had two objectives, she said, adding, firstly, he had successful and productive bilateral discussion with Rwanda's President, Paul Kagame. In their discussion, the two leaders emphasized that Ethiopia and Rwanda should work on sharing their successful experiences in the agricultural sector in East Africa and the continent, the press secretary head said. She added that the second was that the premier attended the 'Kwibuka30’ anniversary where he stated that Ethiopia showed its solidarity with the people of Rwanda. Moreover, she stated that members of the delegation also held bilateral discussion with their Rwanda's counterparts on various spheres. Prime Minister Abiy began his official visit to the Rwanda Institute for Conservation Agriculture, where good experience was gained, she said, adding that it has been witnessed that the institute is engaged in similar activities in animal breeding and agricultural projects in Ethiopia. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Taye Atske-Selassie with his Rwandan counterpart laid cornerstone for the construction of Ethiopian embassy in Kigali on 7,700 square feet plot of land it received from the government of Rwanda. This confirmed the strategic partnership between the two countries and will take the relationships between the two countries to new heights, she indicated. At the same time, she added that the mayor of Addis Ababa City Administration, Adanech Abiebie, has signed sister cities agreement with the mayor of Kigali City, Samuel Dusengiyumva. The agreement will enable the two cities to share experience and work together on green development, eco-tourism, and solid and liquid waste disposal, Billene indicated.          

Addis Ababa, April 07/2024 (ENA) A high-level Ethiopia's delegation held discussions with authorities of Saudi Arabia, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The delegation led by State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Birtukan Ayano met with its Saudi counterpart led by Deputy Foreign Minister, Ali Al-Yousef in Riyadh and exchanged views on ways to repatriate illegal Ethiopian migrants from Saudi Arabia and enhance the bilateral relations of the two countries.   In his media briefing last week, Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Nebiyu Tedla said that Ethiopia would start repatriation of its 70,000 citizens from Saudi Arabia. He also stressed the government’s commitment to assisting Ethiopians who are in difficult situations abroad.

Addis Ababa, April 7/2024 (ENA) Rwandan President Paul Kagame has extended his appreciation to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for serving as a young peacekeeper in the aftermath of the Rwandan genocide. In 1995, Abiy served as a United Nations (UN) peacekeeper in Rwanda following the Rwandan genocide. Speaking at the commemorations to mark 30 year anniversary of genocide, President Kagame has also recognized the leadership of different countries for supporting Rwanda’s rebuilding at the time. “I want to recognize a few while also asking for forgiveness not being able to mention or who deserves it. For example, Uganda, which carried the burden of Rwanda……The leadership and people of Ethiopia and Eritrea helped us in starting to rebuild at that time,” he said.   “Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who is here (now for official visit,) even served as the young peacekeeper in the immediate aftermath of the genocide,” the president said. Rwanda paid tribute to genocide victims after 30 years today.    

Addis Ababa, April 7/2024 (ENA ) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated that Ethiopia stands with the people of Rwanda as you commemorate ‘Kwibuka30’. Rwanda today has paid solemn tribute to genocide victims after 30 years, it was indicated.

Addis Ababa, April 6/2024 (ENA) Activities carried out in the past two years to strengthen parliamentary diplomacy and build Ethiopia's image have been productive, House of People's Representatives (HPR) Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs Standing Committee Chairperson, Dima Negewo told ENA. Dima said that strengthening parliamentary diplomacy is one of the priorities of the Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs Standing Committee of HPR. Stating that the house has received members of parliaments (MPs) from various countries and discussed on various issues in the past two years, he said the discussions have been instrumental to strengthen people-to-people relations and parliamentary diplomacy. Dima further said that discussions held with MPs and ambassadors of various countries were crucial to properly explain the current situation of Ethiopia, which helped to further bolster existing relations with the country. The discussions held with representatives of a host of countries were pivotal to build the image of the country, he added. Explanations were also given to MPs and ambassadors of various countries on ongoing projects in the country including the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) which is of great significance not only to Ethiopia but also to the region and the Green Legacy Initiative, which is instrumental to build Climate-Resilient Green Economy (CRGE), Dima highlighted. The chairperson reaffirmed the commitment of the standing committee to work with diligence to further strengthen parliamentary diplomacy for the intended results.  

Addis Ababa, April 6/2024 (ENA) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and First Lady Zinash Tayachew arrived in Kigali, Rwanda on an official visit. Prime Minister Abiy and First Lady Zinash arrived in Kigali, Rwanda, on an official visit, the office of the Prime Minister said.  

Addis Ababa, April 6/2024 (ENA) Residents in Addis Ababa staged rally in support of the ongoing reforms at Meskel Square this morning, voicing ​​"We will stand together for the prosperity of our country". Residents of the city in tens of thousands rallied voicing their strong support to sustain the ongoing reform in strengthened manner. The demonstrators carried various placards saying they supported the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for the outstanding achievements being made in Addis Ababa as well as across the nation. Among the messages demonstrators conveyed through placards include: ‘peace is at our homes’, ‘the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is a manifestation of our unity and strength’, and 'we will stand firm with the leadership of the reform to take our country to greater heights.   The reformist leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed registered vivid results in various spheres over the last six years, according to Government Communication Service Minister Legesse Tulu. The Ethiopian leadership has carried out concrete works that ensure the country's prosperity and protect its national interests, Government Communication Service Minister Legesse Tulu recently told the media. The success registered by the reformist leadership in various spheres during the stated period is vivid. The government has been exerting effort to resolve Ethiopia's deep-rooted problems and nurture lasting peace. In this respect, nation-state building activities have been underway based on a shared narrative by involving all parities to ensure unity and promote solidarity in the spirit of cooperation. The government is also working hard to resolve differences and disagreements through dialogue and consultations by establishing the National Dialogue Commission, the minister noted. Moreover, the government has been taking many steps to enhance political participation and inclusiveness, according to Legesse. The government has also laid foundation for independent institutions such as the National Election Board of Ethiopia and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission to flourish.  

Addis Ababa, April 5/2024(ENA)- The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission announced today that it has concluded identification of participants in 850 of the 940 woredas. Briefing journalists today, Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission Spokesperson Tibebu Tadesse said that the Commission has been carrying out series of activities where 130,000 people participated. He added that efforts being made to conclude participants identification of the remaining woredas in the coming weeks. Recall that the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission was established with a view to bringing national consensus, sustainable peace, and reconciliation in the country through an inclusive dialogue.

Addis Ababa, April 4/2024 (ENA) The Ethiopian leadership has carried out concrete works that ensure the country's prosperity and protect its national interests in the past six years, according to the Government Communication Service. Briefing the media today, Government Communication Service Minister Legesse Tulu said the success registered by the reformist leadership in various spheres during the stated period is vivid. According to him, the government has been exerting effort to resolve Ethiopia's deep-rooted problems and nurture lasting peace. In this respect, nation-state building activities have been underway based on a shared narrative by involving all parities to ensure unity and promote solidarity in the spirit of cooperation. He added that the government has embarked on implementing a transitional justice policy that helps to end resentment and repair fractures of the past. The government is also working hard to resolve differences and disagreements through dialogue and consultations by establishing the National Dialogue Commission, the minister noted. Moreover, the government has been taking many steps to enhance political participation and inclusiveness, Legesse stated. The government has also laid foundation for independent institutions such as the National Election Board of Ethiopia and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission to flourish. The minister further stressed that Ethiopia has the capacity to realize its own development and raise its continental and international reputation by protecting its national interests. Moreover, the government has created environment for those who have resorted to violence to come forward with their demands peacefully as it is committed to resolving differences without the use of force. Highlighting the economic reform activities, Legesse underscored the remarkable achievements attained, adding that the country's wealth has doubled, the performance of mega projects has improved, and multi-sector economic growth is yielding results. The achievements of summer irrigated wheat and Green Legacy Initiative have positively changed the image of the country, he noted. The minister also mentioned the foiled domestic and foreign conspiracies contrived to destroy the nation with the mature leadership. In the sphere of diplomacy, the leadership of the reforming government has carried out regional and international foreign relations activities that have increased Ethiopia's visibility and safeguarded its national interests.            

Addis Ababa, April 4/2024 (ENA) Ministry of Foreign Affairs has reiterated its unwavering commitment to enhancing bilateral, regional and multilateral relations. Foreign Affairs Minster Taye Atske Selassie, who met Ambassadors residing in Ethiopia yesterday, expressed his readiness to work in cooperation with the diplomatic community in advancing the shared interest of all. Expressing the government's commitment in realizing the ongoing ambitious initiatives of Ethiopia, he said the country is working on four major pillars. Sustaining peace, solidifying Ethiopia's contribution to regional peace and security, up-scaling Ethiopia's bilateral relations with all countries, and advancing the nation's economic agenda. Regarding Ethiopia's relations with neighboring countries and in the region, the minister emphasized that the nation will continue to advance the nation's strong relations with neighboring countries and promoting regional integration.   FM Taye reaffirmed that the commitment of Ethiopia to bilateral, regional, and multilateral relations is to realize a more peaceful and prosperous future for all. The ministry finally hosted an Iftar dinner program for the diplomatic community in the presence of the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council President Haji Ibrahim Tufa.      

Addis Ababa, April 4/2024 (ENA) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced today that it would start repatriation of 70,000 Ethiopians from Saudi Arabia. Briefing journalists today, Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Nebiyu Tedla stressed the government’s commitment to assisting Ethiopians who are in difficult situations abroad. Following a discussion with Saudi officials, led by Ethiopia's Foreign Affairs State Minister, Birtukan Ayano, some 70, 000 Ethiopians who are in difficult situation from Saudi Arabia would be repatriated. A national committee, comprised of 16 institutions, is undertaking diligent preparation for the return of Ethiopians including logistical and shelter provision. According to the Spokesperson, the Ethiopian government has repatriated over 50,000 Ethiopians from various countries, including Saudi Arabia, Gulf nations, and other African states in the last 9 months. Nebiyu emphasized the importance of legal employment pathways through constructive dialogues with countries interested in welcoming Ethiopian workers. Thus, he pointed out that Ethiopia has established legal employment agreements with the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and Jordan, while negotiations are ongoing with Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman. As a country, Ethiopia is not only source of migrants but it also hosts over one million refugees from different countries, he stated, and added that currently, the country is hosting about one million refugees. “Ethiopia remains dedicated to effective migration governance, aligning with the principles of the Global Compact on Migration,” Nebiyu noted. . The international community should support Ethiopia’s migration initiatives, he stated, and called upon the global community and partners to enhance their assistance. In another development, the Spokesperson said the African Boxing Confederation (AFBC) has signed an agreement with the ministry to open its headquarters in Addis Ababa.  

Addis Ababa, April 4/2024 (ENA) Minister of Foreign Affairs Taye Atske Selassie briefed Addis Ababa-based diplomatic community on the capital’s ambitious Smart City project including the Addis Ababa City Corridor Development Project. The briefing intended to update diplomats on the progress and developments of the Addis Ababa City Corridor project, which seeks to transform the capital into a technologically advanced and sustainable urban center. In his opening remark, FM Taye assured that the Commitment of Ethiopia to Bilateral, regional, and multilateral relations is to realize a more peaceful and prosperous future for all.The foreign minister further highlighted the key features and objectives of the Smart City initiative, emphasizing its potential to enhance infrastructure, improve public services, and create a more efficient and livable city in Africa for residents and visitors alike. The diplomatic community was provided with insights into the innovative strategies and partnerships driving the project forward, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.Director General of Addis Ababa Roads Authority Moges Tibebu, on behalf of Addis Ababa City Administration, delivered a presentation on the Addis Ababa City Corridor Development Project to the diplomatic community. The orientation session served as a platform for engagement and collaboration between the diplomatic community and local authorities, showcasing Ethiopia's commitment to modernizing its capital and leveraging technology for urban development, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Addis Ababa, April 3/2024 (ENA) Guns have largely been silenced in Africa, though some conflicts still remain in the continent, calling for collective effort to silence the guns, AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security said. Commissioner Bankole Adeoye made the remark during the 20th anniversary of the official establishment of PSC at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa today. Adeoye added that the AU is proud of the PSC for its work on peace and security over the past two decades. Stating that it has adopted many front-line documents and frameworks to guide its works, the commissioner commended the PSC's role in security governance, conflict prevention, management, and resolution. The PSC has been the key promoter of constitutionalism, rule of law, and respect of human rights, he pointed out. According to him, the PSC is striving to silence the guns in Africa and achieve the goals of Agenda 2063. Although guns have largely been silenced in the continent, some remained, he stated, urging for collective endeavor. The Council has been active in addressing conflict situations across the continent and has played a role in reducing violence, he stated, recalling the success stories, including in Ethiopia, which mediated the Pretoria peace agreement. The PSC is comprised of 15 members. The ten newly elected countries are Angola, Botswana, Côte d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, Gambia, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, and Uganda, it was learned. Algeria, Chad, Nigeria, Rwanda, and South Africa are also re-elected PSC members.      

Addis Ababa, April 3/2024(ENA- State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mesganu Arga reiterated Ethiopia's commitment to the relationship with Puntland and affirmed Ethiopia's readiness to collaborate across various areas. State Mesganu Arga warmly received a senior ministerial delegation led by Puntland's Minister of Finance, Mohammed Farah Mohammed, at his office today.   In their discussions, the two sides explored collaborative opportunities in trade, investment, energy cooperation, and joint infrastructure projects to bolster and broaden the ties between the two sides. The Puntland delegation emphasized the longstanding and fraternal ties between Puntland and Ethiopia, acknowledging Ethiopia's support and collaboration, particularly in security and education sectors. It also expressed the newly elected government of Puntland's desire to strengthen its bilateral relations with Ethiopia, emphasizing the importance of focusing on trade, infrastructure development, and economic cooperation. State Minister Mesganu reiterated Ethiopia's commitment to the relationship with Puntland and affirmed Ethiopia's readiness to collaborate across various areas. He also extended a congratulatory message to the government of Puntland for the successful elections it conducted recently.  

Addis Ababa, April 3/2024(ENA- Prosperity Party (PP) and the Communist Party of China (CPC) underscored the need for further strengthening relations between the two parties. Prosperity Party Public and International Relations Head, Adisu Arega and Secretary of the Communist Party of China Ningxia Regional Committee, Liang Yanshun held discussions on Tuesday.   In their discussions, the PP and CPC have reached an agreement to lift the relation to new heights and enter into practical actions through training and exchange of experiences. As a result, they emphasized that the relations between the two parties should be further consolidated. The discussion also stressed the need for establishing linkage between institutions of the two parties to build the capacity of party members and leaders. Moreover, the Prosperity Party and the Communist Party of China have agreed on issues that will increase the flow of investment in construction of infrastructure and national economic capacity in the areas of investment as well as other sectors like construction, mining, agriculture and ICT. The two parties also agreed to strengthen a sister city relationship which has been established between the Chinese Ningxia province and Oromia region of Ethiopia. Furthermore, the two parties' discussion also emphasized a new numerous opportunities to be utilized beyond enhancing cultural familiarity. In terms of culture, tourism and social spheres, an agreement was reached to work together with Ningxia province as Ethiopia is the birthplace of humanity and has a long history. Similarly, Ningxia is one of the birthplaces of Chinese civilization. In this regard, the parities emphasized the need to work on education, community building, and cultural exchanges among youth between sides. In addition, the information obtained from the Prosperity Party indicates that the potential of tourism in both Ethiopia and Ningxia autonomous province of China is enormous. Therefore, the two sides have reached a consensus to work together to exploit the untapped potential in the sphere of tourism and culture.