BEIJING — China’s Premier Li Qiang announced plans to enhance trade and investment with Ethiopia, emphasizing cooperation on major projects like the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway. In a meeting on Sunday with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Li highlighted the importance of strengthening ties between the two nations.
Li noted that since establishing diplomatic relations 55 years ago, China and Ethiopia have supported each other through various international changes. He praised their longstanding cooperation, which has often led the way in China-Africa relations.
“China is ready to work with Ethiopia to promote the sustainable development of the Addis Ababa-Djibouti Railway, a flagship project of our high-quality Belt and Road cooperation,” Li said. He also expressed interest in expanding collaboration in infrastructure, green industries, e-commerce, artificial intelligence, and more.
In June, President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory letter to the Ministerial Meeting of Coordinators on the Implementation of the Follow-up Actions of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). The letter announced new measures, including implementing zero-tariff treatment for 100 percent tariff lines for 53 African countries with diplomatic relations with China.
Li emphasized that China will use these new opportunities to work closely with Ethiopia to realize the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of FOCAC. He called for deepening all-around cooperation and making the bilateral relationship a model for building an all-weather China-Africa community with a shared future.
“China will, as always, support Ethiopia in independently exploring a development path suited to its national conditions,” Li stated. He also highlighted the importance of cultural exchanges, particularly in tourism, youth, and education.
Recognizing both nations as important Global South countries, Li expressed a desire to strengthen communication within multilateral frameworks like the United Nations and BRICS. He advocated for true multilateralism, economic globalization, and free trade to bring stability and positive energy to the world.
Premier Li arrived in Rio de Janeiro on Saturday to attend the 17th BRICS Summit, underscoring China’s commitment to international cooperation and dialogue.
