In an effort to strengthen bilateral relations and tackle mutual global interests, UAE’s President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met with Dr. Abiy Ahmed, the Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. This high-level dialogue occurred in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital.
Dr. Abiy Ahmed extended a warm welcome to His Highness, emphasizing that the visit underscored the blossoming partnership between their two nations. The UAE President reciprocated the sentiments, expressing his gratitude to the Ethiopian Prime Minister for offering condolences on the demise of Sheikh Saeed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Such gestures highlight the profound and enduring bond shared by their countries.
Both leaders deliberated on potential avenues to bolster their ties across various sectors, encompassing economic ventures, investments, and developmental collaborations. Their conversation spanned topics of mutual concern on both regional and global scales, advocating for enhanced cooperation that would elevate the quality of life for their citizens.
Sheikh Mohamed took a moment to commend the strong trade relationship between the UAE and Ethiopia, noting a significant non-oil trade volume of USD 1.4 billion in 2022. He expressed optimism about amplifying this figure in the years to come, with discussions pointing toward promising investment opportunities and collaborations in renewable energy, especially solar energy.
Drawing attention to Ethiopia’s critical role in the African continent, Sheikh Mohamed emphasized its importance for the UAE. Ethiopia’s influential position, evidenced by housing the Organization of African Unity’s headquarters, resonates significantly with the UAE’s commitment to fortifying ties across Africa and advocating for peace and prosperity in the region.
An optimistic outlook for the recent negotiations between Egypt and Ethiopia on the Renaissance Dam issue was shared, with hopes for a comprehensive and mutually beneficial resolution. Additionally, the Ethiopian Prime Minister received an invitation to the forthcoming Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) hosted by the UAE.
Recognizing Ethiopia’s strides in renewable energy, Sheikh Mohamed echoed the aligned vision of both nations in achieving climate neutrality by 2050 and driving economic and social progress through innovative climate solutions. Dr. Abiy Ahmed acknowledged the enduring relationship between their nations, commending the UAE’s endeavors in promoting global peace and cooperation.
To honor the occasion, a luncheon was hosted by the Ethiopian Prime Minister, attended by numerous officials from both countries. In a symbolic gesture of friendship and growth, a tree was jointly planted in the Prime Minister’s office garden by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Dr. Abiy Ahmed.