Chinese FM calls for pushing China-Ethiopia all-weather strategic partnership to new heights

China is ready to work with Ethiopia to implement the consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries, strengthen the alignment of their development strategies, deepen exchanges of experience in governance and continuously elevate the all-weather strategic partnership between China and Ethiopia to new heights, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Thursday.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks while meeting with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Addis Ababa.

Wang is on a visit to Ethiopia, Somalia, Tanzania and Lesotho upon invitation from January 7 to 12.

Abiy said Ethiopia thanks China for its long-term support and assistance to Ethiopia's economic and social development.

Ethiopia adheres to the one-China principle, he said, expressing willingness to maintain close high-level exchanges with China, deepen practical cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, new energy, artificial intelligence and maritime affairs, strengthen mutual support in regional and international affairs, and promote the continuous development of bilateral relations.

Wang called on the two countries to implement the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, make full use of China's zero-tariff policy toward all African countries with which it has diplomatic relations and accelerate the upgrading of economic and trade cooperation.

He also called for efforts to strengthen cooperation in infrastructure, green industries, the digital economy, and other fields and promote high-quality Belt and Road cooperation between China and Africa.

Wang expressed hope that Ethiopia will provide a favorable environment for Chinese enterprises to invest and do business, adding that China looks forward to Ethiopia, as a major African country, playing an important role in regional and international affairs.

Wang also held talks with Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos on the same day.