China reaffirms commitment to strengthening strategic partnership with Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, March 11, 2025 (FMC) — China remains steadfast in its commitment to deepening its all-weather strategic partnership with Ethiopia, contributing to regional stability in an increasingly unpredictable world, Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia Chen Hai said today.

Speaking at a seminar titled “China in Springtime: Sharing Opportunities with the World,” the ambassador reaffirmed his country’s dedication to strengthening bilateral ties and fostering shared prosperity.

“This year marks the 55th anniversary of the establishment of China-Ethiopia diplomatic ties, (and) China stands ready to strengthen our all-weather strategic partnership and contribute to the stability of our relations in (this) an uncertain world,” he stated.

Highlighting Ethiopia’s economic potential, he remarked, “Ethiopia is a promising land of growth and collaboration; and the modernization process of this country is showing vigorous vitality.”

Chen Hai outlined China’s continued support for Ethiopia’s development, particularly in industrialization, agricultural modernization, and trade. He emphasized that China’s own modernization presents fresh opportunities for enhanced economic cooperation, benefiting both nations.

Additionally, he underscored China’s role in advocating for the voices of developing countries in global governance, pushing for a more equitable international order.

Ethiopia’s Planning and Development State Minister Mr. Bereket Fisseha-Tsion reaffirmed the strong relationship between his country and China, recalling the elevation of their partnership to an All-Weather Strategic Partnership in October 2023.

“Our relationship, built on mutual respect and a shared vision for development, has flourished over decades, evolving from our support for each other’s independence struggles to a robust strategic alliance,” he remarked.

He described the partnership as a testament to the strength of South-South cooperation, emphasizing China’s crucial role in Ethiopia’s economic transformation through large-scale investments, trade, and job creation.

“Recent trade statistics reveal that Ethiopia’s imports from China reached approximately 18 billion USD over the past five years, making China the top source of imports,” he noted.

Mr. Bereket further emphasized Ethiopia’s eagerness to harness opportunities under China’s Belt and Road Initiative and attract more Chinese investment to drive its economic ambitions.

Held at Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa, the  half-day seminar was jointly organized by the Chinese Embassy in Ethiopia and China Media Group (CMG).