Ethiopia, China Deepening Partnership Beyond Commerce: President Taye

Addis Ababa, August 7, 2025 (ENA) -- President Taye Atske Selassie stated that the bilateral relationship between Ethiopia and China is becoming more effective, not only in the sphere of trade but also through collaboration on the international stage.

The "2025 Chinese Medical Volunteers' African Charity Mission and International Medical Volunteers' Campaign" has been launched at the Silk Road General Hospital, in Addis Ababa.

The launch event was attended by President Taye Atske Selassie, Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba, and the Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia, Cheng Hai.

It was announced that a variety of major surgical services would be provided, including pediatric cardiac surgery, cataract surgery, ophthalmology, gynecology, and neurosurgery.

Additionally, eye and heart screenings will be conducted at one public and one private school.

Cervical cancer screenings will also be available for women aged 18 and over.

During the event, Taye Atske Selassie expressed his gratitude for the commitment of the Chinese volunteers.

 

He expressed his confidence that many children and others in need of medical assistance would receive these services.

The president also urged the volunteers to focus on knowledge and skills transfer during their stay.

The President reiterated that the bilateral relations between Ethiopia and China are becoming more productive on the international stage, in addition to their commercial ties.

Minister of Health Dr. Mekdes Daba commented that the program with the Chinese volunteer doctors reflects a long-standing partnership, camaraderie, and spirit of progress with the people of China.

 

She stated that healthcare knows no borders and in this regard this program conveys a strong message to everyone.

The Minister said that volunteer service is, above all, a movement based on compassion.

Last year’s summer health volunteer initiative served over 4 million people, she recalled.

She also mentioned that this year's summer volunteer service aims to reach 5 million needy people.

The minister expressed her gratitude to the Chinese volunteer doctors for participating in this benevolent health service initiative.

Chinese Ambassador Chen Hai, on his part, said that China and Africa are good friends, partners, and brothers.

 

He noted that China-Africa health cooperation is strengthening, and their partnership is entering a new phase.

He pointed out that their health collaboration is expanding, bearing fruit, and yielding results.

The Ambassador described the contributions of volunteers as highly professional and beneficial to the public, showcasing the spirit of Chinese volunteer doctors.

He emphasized that the program is more than just a medical service, bringing about tangible health benefits and will give new impetus to the medical cooperation between China and Ethiopia.