Ministry says Ethiopia strengthening bilateral ties with countries
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ADDIS ABABA— THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD Newspaper 7 May 2016: The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said yesterday Ethiopia is stepping up bilateral relations with countries in Africa and Europe.
In Ministry’s bi-weekly briefing, Ministry Spokesperson Twolde Mulugeta told journalists yesterday that Minister Dr. Tedros Adhanom discussed with the Foreign and International Cooperation Minister of Botswana on ways of strengthening cooperation between the two countries.
According to Tewolde, the ministers signed agreement to work in collaboration in the empowerment and participation of women and youth, civil service training and security. They also discussed ways in which the two countries could upgrade their contribution to the activities of the African Union.
On the other hand, Dr. Tedros visited Sweden, Serbia, and Russia in the past week. Tewolde indicated that the visit was according to plan. During the visit Dr. Tedros has met with higher officials and the business community. Improving trade and investment was the main agenda and several agreements have been made.
In his briefing Tewolde also said that agreements have been signed with PTA Bank which is expected to be an alternative financial resource for Ethiopian banks. A non governmental organization, Farm Africa, has also signed agreement with State Minister Taye Atskesellasie to open its office here in Addis Ababa. Farm Africa gives a managerial service, support in environmental and food security. Tewolde noted that international organizations opening their office in Addis Ababa will contribute to building the city’s image at international level.
Taye also briefed different missions headquartered in Addis Ababa in connection with the current issues and the situation in Gambella state.
It was also indicated that the Ethiopian government is taking the necessary measure for the safe return of the children kidnapped by Murlie tribe of South Sudan. According to Tewolde, the activity to repatriate the children needs a wise action. In this regard, both the Ethiopian and South Sudanese governments are working in collaboration with the local community elders.
BY HENOK TIBEBU