Ethiopia, Japan Agree to Enhance Cooperation in Wide Range of Issues

Addis Ababa August 3/2023 (ENA )The governments of Ethiopia and Japan have agreed to further enhance their cooperation in various fields of common interest.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister Demeke Mekonnen held discussion with Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi today in Addis Ababa. 

In a press briefing to journalist following the bilateral discussion, Demeke said the visit of the Japanese Foreign Minister to Ethiopia is historic that illustrates the strong relationship between two countries.

 

He added that they held productive discussion on bilateral and multilateral issues that would help to enhance their cooperation.

“We agreed to enhance cooperation in the field trade, investment and development cooperation.”

The two sides have also discussed regional issues of common interest and ways of consolidating peace.  

The foreign minister pointed out that Ethiopia attaches great value to its relationship with Japan.

 

Hayashi on his part said that "We had a frank and fruitful exchange of views on the bilateral relation, regional situations and cooperation in the international arena." 

Japan is keen to support Ethiopia in its effort to rehabilitate and reconstruct the conflict affected areas, he added.

The minister who visited Ethiopia for the first time said his country also ready to support the implementation of peace agreement. 

"I mentioned Japan’s support for the implementation of the Peace Agreement signed between the Ethiopian government and the TPLF, and stated that Japan would give serious consideration to further cooperation towards the implementation of the agreement."

The two officials have also agreed to work on regional and international arena.

Hayashi arrived in Ethiopia last night as part of his final tour to Africa after South Africa and Uganda.

During his stay in Ethiopia, Hayashi will discuss with higher  government officials and visit various Japan supported development activities.

Ethiopia and Japan have a long history of bilateral relationship.