Ethiopia wants to bolster relations with Canada: Foreign Minister
(EBC; November 11, 2016) – Foreign Affairs Minister Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu said Ethiopia has the desire to replicate the people-to-people relations with Canada to the economic and political spheres.
The minister held talks on Friday with his Canadian counterpart Stéphane Dion on ways of strengthening the multifaceted relations between the two countries.
It is in the interest of Ethiopia to expand the long people-to-people ties as it is a major component in the relationship of the countries, Dr. Workneh said. Extensive works are underway to expand economic and political partnership, he added.
The minister said Ethiopia and Canada are working jointly to ensure peace in eastern Africa as well as collaborating on bilateral and international issues of mutual interest.
He said the visit of the Canadian foreign minister will contribute towards bolstering bilateral relations.
Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Stéphane Dion stated that Ethiopia is a key country identified by Canada to receive development support allocated to African countries.
The foreign minister said Canada appreciates the sustained economic growth Ethiopia has witnessed over the years and the role it plays to restore peace and stability in various hotspots of the African continent.
Dion indicated that his country wants to extend support in high technology, transportation and water management sectors as well as for protection of human rights.
Ethiopia’s viable investment policy, rule of law and certainty of investors have made a big contribution to attract investment to the country, the minister said, adding that Canada will also contribute its share for the expansion of investment projects that generate job opportunities for the youth.