PM Abiy Engages in Strategic Diplomatic Talks on Sidelines of BRICS Summit

Addis Ababa, June 7, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held strategic diplomatic engagements with leaders of several countries on the sidelines of the 17th BRICS Summit, according to Foreign Affairs Minister Gedion Timothewos.

Attending the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Prime Minister Abiy engaged in high-level talks with the leaders of Brazil, China, South Africa as well as foreign ministers.  

The Prime Minister delivered a speech during the opening session on peace and security and global governance.

The diplomatic engagements offered a valuable opportunity to deepen bilateral ties and to foster greater understanding and support for Ethiopia’s stance on key strategic issues, according to Minister Gedion.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held initial talks with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, focusing on ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Ethiopia and Brazil, the minister indicated.

As a result, Gedion noted the discussion offered the President a valuable opportunity to gain deeper insight into Ethiopia’s current situation, policy direction, and the wider regional context.

In a similar diplomatic talk, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held talks with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on the possibility of strengthening bilateral relations between Ethiopia and China.

In a similar diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held discussions with Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang on enhancing Ethio-Chania bilateral relations.

In particular, the two leaders explored ways to enhance China’s constructive role in Ethiopia’s economic development and acknowledged China’s significant contribution to securing debt relief for Ethiopia through the Paris Club framework.

The two sides also exchanged views on expanding Ethiopia’s access to China’s market through duty-free export opportunities, a trade initiative China has recently extended to African countries like Ethiopia, Gedion indicated.

Moreover, Prime Minister Abiy held consultations with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on a range of issues, it was indicated.

The Foreign Minister highlighted President Ramaphosa’s pivotal role regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) during his tenure as Chairperson of the African Union, noting that their discussion covered the dam’s current status, progress toward completion, and related matters.

Additionally, Gedion emphasized Ethiopia’s interest in drawing lessons, technologies, and investments from these partner countries, recognizing multiple sectors where Ethiopia can both benefit and contribute.