The enduring relationship between Iran and Ethiopia is entering a new chapter of strengthened cooperation, with both nations reaffirming their commitment to closer parliamentary collaboration.
The historic ties between the two countries, established in the mid-20th century, have witnessed periods of disruption and renewal, culminating in the reopening of Ethiopia’s embassy in Tehran in 1992. Since then, both nations have worked to rebuild and expand their partnership, guided by shared values and mutual interests.
Recently, in a significant step toward enhancing bilateral relations, the Ethiopian Parliamentary Chairman Tagesse Chafo and Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammed Baqer Qalibaf held high-level discussions in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to bolster legislative collaboration. The meeting marks an important milestone in the relationship between the two countries.
As the discussions unfold, the outcomes will likely have implications not only for Iran and Ethiopia but also for the wider regions they represent. By working together, these two nations are setting an example of how diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation can drive meaningful change in a complex and interconnected world.
Today’s guest is Ali Akbar Rezaei, the designated ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Iran to Ethiopia. In an interview with The Ethiopian Herald, the ambassador discussed various issues regarding the bilateral and multilateral ties between the two countries.
Enjoy the read!
Could you please tell us about the professional and financial assistance that your country has provided to Ethiopia, specifically in terms of enhancing cooperation in science and technology?
Over the past decade, Iran has been providing ongoing official development assistance (ODA) to support Ethiopia. However, I believe it is essential to focus on the transfer of new technologies. As the saying goes, “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime.”
Our current goal is to assist African countries, especially Ethiopia, in independently acquiring new technologies. This strategy, known as technology transfer, is our top priority. To further this objective, Iran has reactivated the Economic Joint Commission with Ethiopia, with the Iranian Vice Presidency for Technology taking the lead.
This reactivation serves as a clear signal to Ethiopia of our new policy and commitment to cooperation centered around technology and high-tech advancements. This shift marks a significant advancement in our partnership with Ethiopia.
If I am not mistaken, in Iran, there are more than 10,000 manufacturing companies producing a variety of products. However, Iranians face challenges due to sanctions. How can Iran manage the challenges?
Yes, you mentioned the unilateral sanctions imposed. Alongside that, we are also under sanctions. In 2024, our foreign trade with other countries reached $100 billion. This shows that we cannot ignore the effects of the sanctions. Despite this, we continue to do business with other countries. Therefore, we can maintain the same business relations with Ethiopia. The Ethiopian government has implemented new policies regarding economic and financial reforms in the country, which I find commendable. With these new policies, I believe your country requires new knowledge and technologies, especially in high-tech areas.
We have more than 10,000 enterprises based on high-tech and new technologies, and we are willing to share our e pe tise with Ethiopian companies. This is also something we do with other countries, including African nations. For example, we have a high-tech center in Nairobi, Kenya, which could be replicated in Ethiopia. We are prepared to collaborate with our Ethiopian counterparts.
As you mentioned earlier, you raised some points about technological capacity. If Iran can enhance its technological capacity to the highest level, what are the driving factors that enable the country to excel in technological advancement? You are referring to the reasons behind the development of high-tech in Iran, correct?
I believe there are two key factors contributing to our success. Firstly, we rely on our talented young generation, which is crucial. Secondly, we have a strong sense of self-confidence. Believing in oneself and in the abilities of our young generation allows us to achieve and innovate in various technological fields. This same approach can be applied in Ethiopia, as I have witnessed the immense talent among the young generation in your country since my arrival in Addis Ababa, a beautiful city in East Africa. I consider this talent more valuable than money or capital.
I remember back in September 2007 when Ethiopia showed interest in purchasing Iranian oil. Can you provide an update on any progress made since then? If the deal was cancelled, could you please share the reason for it?
It’s been quite a while, around 16 or 17 years ago, so I’m sure there have been developments. In business, trends change regularly, not just yearly but monthly and weekly, especially in the oil market where things can shift daily. Currently, we are open to selling oil to any country, including Ethiopia, without any restrictions.
Sometimes, we may have to sell our oil to specific customers, but Ethiopia is welcome to purchase from us without any limitations.
Iran has expanded its outreach to African countries beyond economic relations into the political realm in recent years. How do you perceive the ties between Iran and the African States?
The relationship and cooperation between Iran and the African continent have seen significant development when comparing before and after the Islamic Revolution in Iran. Prior to the Islamic Revolution, Iran had six or seven embassies in African countries, but now we have 24 embassies across the continent.
Since the revolution, Iran has supported and assisted liberation movements in African countries, including the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa and other African nations. Over the past 40 years, we have engaged in supportive cooperation with African countries, providing significant official development assistance (ODA) to nations like Ethiopia.
We have actively participated in the summits of the African Union and the Organization of African Unity, showcasing our commitment to the continent. As an observer member of the African Union, our foreign policy towards Africa is clear. We will continue to strengthen our ties with African nations.
For the past three years, we have held annual Iran-Africa joint sessions in Tehran, with last year’s session hosting delegations from 24 countries. This year, we plan to once again invite African officials and companies to participate in the third Iran-Africa joint session. Our support for Africa is unwavering, and our policy is in favor of African nations’ interests.
Ethiopia and Iran have been focusing on strengthening trade relations and economic ties. How do you view the participation and engagement of Iranian businesses in Ethiopia, and in which areas do they prefer to invest?
Before addressing your second question, let me revisit the first one. When Iranian businessmen are informed about the agreements between the two governments, they feel more confident about conducting business in Ethiopia. These agreements act as highways, providing a safe path for trade and business activities. With agreements in place, businessmen from both countries can navigate the business landscape with confidence and security.
Currently, there are over 10 Iranian companies operating in Ethiopia across various sectors. Business, essentially, is a give-and-take relationship. Ethiopia exports commodities like coffee, oil seeds, and pulses to Iran, while Iranian companies supply Ethiopia with products such as petrochemicals, fertilizers, construction materials, and bitumen. This trade relationship highlights the active economic engagement between the two nations.
Maybe a follow-up question: I believe Africa is currently implementing the African Free Trade Area. So, what does this mean, especially for Iran, in terms of seizing the opportunity?
Actually, we are very pleased, firstly, for this reason: African countries, officials, governments, and leaders have recognized the importance of a shared interest. They require a common platform, distinct from the African Union. This, I believe, is crucial. It sends a strong message to African partners. When African leaders chose to establish a unified market in Africa, it signifies their understanding of what is beneficial for the continent. This, I believe, is the primary point.
The second point is that when non- African partners, such as Iran or other countries, observe the unity of the African market, it will become simpler for them to engage in business and activities within the African market as a whole. Dealing with Africa as 54 or 55 individual countries can be quite complex, but when there is a single market in Africa, it simultaneously serves the interests of African nations and streamlines the process for non- African partners to conduct business and negotiate with African countries.
This, I believe, is advantageous for both African and non-African nations. Unless a country or partner is considering the colonization of African countries, they may not be pleased.
Your country, Iran, is currently under sanctions. How can it still maintain a vibrant economy?
You are inquiring about the secret to our current economic success. I’ll tell you, when facing pressure and sanctions, it’s crucial to assess your capabilities and prioritize independence.
The leadership of a nation must commit to being independent. This doesn’t mean cutting off foreign trade partners. Last year, Iran engaged in over $100 billion in foreign trade, showcasing a vibrant economy. It may not fully utilize our capacities, but it demonstrates economic strength. How is this possible? Firstly, leadership must prioritize independence. Secondly, trusting the capabilities and potential of the country, particularly in the potentials of the younger generation, is key.
In certain sectors, Iran ranks among the top 10 globally. Despite sanctions, we successfully launched over 10 satellites into space, a complex feat. We possess non-nuclear technologies and high-tech advancements in various fields. These achievements stem from our commitment to independence, trust in our talented youths, and the support of our people. We stand on the right side of history.
When it comes to using nuclear technology for development and sharing experiences with countries like Ethiopia, what is Iran’s current stance?
Iran has extensive experience in utilizing nuclear technology for development. Currently, we are using nuclear technologies to generate energy and electricity, as well as for medical purposes such as cancer treatment. We firmly believe that nuclear technology can contribute to peace and enhance the quality of life for people. We consider it our right to use this technology for the benefit of our citizens, and we are resolute in this belief.
Recently, Iranian parliament members engaged in bilateral discussions with their Ethiopian counterparts. What were the key points of discussion during these talks?
This meeting between high-level officials from both countries signifies a mutual desire to strengthen relations and cooperation. In addition to the bilateral aspects of the visit, I see it as a result of both countries joining the BRICS format. This format has opened up new opportunities for collaboration that can benefit both nations.
Iran and Ethiopia joined the BRICS format simultaneously because they recognized the potential benefits of this platform. They also share a commitment to pluralism, multilateralism, and cooperation in international forums. It is important to emphasize that the BRICS format is not aimed against any specific country; rather, member states focus on advancing mutual interests and benefits.
Therefore, I view the visit of the Speaker of Parliament of Iran as a significant turning point. Over the past 40 years, we have not seen such high-level exchanges between our countries, making this visit a momentous event in our bilateral relations.
Agriculture is a key area of cooperation between the two countries, with Ethiopia seeking more fertilized products from Iran. What are your thoughts on agricultural cooperation?
When discussing the agriculture sector, it is crucial to consider new technologies. Cooperation between Iran and Ethiopia should not only involve supplying fertilizer but also developing new agricultural technologies. As mentioned in my previous speech, our companies are working on innovative solutions that can help Ethiopian farmers double their productivity.
I recently met with the Minister of Agriculture of Ethiopia to discuss ways to enhance our cooperation. Recognizing the significance of the agriculture sector for Ethiopia’s economy, social development, and job creation, particularly for the younger generation, there are numerous collaboration opportunities. I believe that agricultural cooperation is a vital step in strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.
For those interested in importing and exporting materials, what message do you have?
Currently, there are businessmen from both sides engaging in business activities. For some Ethiopian businessmen, the Iranian market is not new. They have established partnerships and are actively involved in trade. However, one of the main challenges we face is a lack of information and sometimes misinformation between the two countries. We are working to address this issue and introduce the real opportunities available in Iran.
Another challenge is the absence of an Ethiopian embassy in Tehran. This hinders communication and access to information for businessmen interested in investing in Ethiopia. We are in discussions with Ethiopian authorities to reopen the embassy, which would benefit both nations.
Despite these challenges, I remain optimistic about the future of trade between our countries.
If you have any additional points to discuss, please feel free to share.
I would like to express my gratitude to the people and government of Ethiopia for their support during my time here.
BY GIRMACHEW GASHAW
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 1 MARCH 2025
