Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with his Ethiopian counterpart Gedion Timothewos in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Monday, pledging to strengthen the partnership between their nations following Ethiopia’s recent entry into BRICS.
During the meeting, Wang Yi congratulated Ethiopia on becoming a full member of BRICS, highlighting Ethiopia’s role as a major African country and important representative of emerging economies. “China welcomes Ethiopia playing a greater role on the international and regional stage and contributing more to the development and revitalization of the African continent,” Wang said.
Wang Yi emphasized China’s commitment to implementing the outcomes of the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit in Beijing. He expressed China’s willingness to advance the all-weather strategic partnership with Ethiopia, aiming to bring greater benefits to both peoples.
“The 21st century is one of development and revitalization for developing countries,” Wang noted. “Africa is poised for modernization, with a bright future ahead. China’s cooperation with Africa is free of any selfish motives, does not engage in major-power competition, and does not participate in geopolitical rivalry. China is Africa’s most reliable development partner.”
He added that China is eager to share the opportunities of modernization with its African brothers and sisters, helping them enhance their capacity for independent development. “Together, we can forge a brighter future for the Global South through unity and self-strengthening,” Wang said.
Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos praised China’s achievements in modernization, stating they have attracted global attention and serve as a model for the progress of all humanity. He expressed gratitude for China’s longstanding assistance in Ethiopia’s economic development and improvement of livelihoods, as well as its strong support for Africa’s peace and development.
“Ethiopia looks forward to strengthening synergy with China under the Belt and Road Initiative,” Gedion said. “We are committed to ensuring that our all-weather strategic partnership brings more tangible benefits to the Ethiopian people.”
Addressing global economic concerns, Gedion expressed deep concern about the rise of unilateral protectionism. He emphasized Ethiopia’s readiness to work closely with BRICS partners to safeguard the common interests of developing countries.
The meeting between the two foreign ministers underscores the growing ties between China and Ethiopia, signaling a collaborative effort to promote development and modernization within the Global South.
