Ethiopia and China started economic relations about 100 B.C when the Han dynasty of China and the Axumite Empire of Ethiopia had trade exchanges. Currently, the bilateral relations are multifaceted and keeping the economic growth of both countries promising. Thus, the bilateral cooperation between the two countries needs to continue in the same manner.
The close relations between the two nations could be seen as a role model for the successful South-South cooperation platform. The comprehensive partnership among Ethiopia and China, which represents sustainable and predictable relations on various corporation areas, effectively showcases the successful South-South partnership modality.
The two countries have realized one of the growing and successful relations in infrastructure development, trade and investment as well as development financing. Accordingly, the two countries have also conducted strategic agreements on further strengthening the people-to-people relations, which also paved the way for human development partnerships.
In April, it was recalled that Ethiopia and China inked five accords to advance their bilateral development cooperation in Beijing. The signed agreements include financing agreement for the development of a plaza and 12km of the ‘Beautifying Sheger’ riverbank project, provision of grants for technical cooperation, provision of grants to go towards food aid, and Belt and Road Initiative five year cooperation plan.
Indeed, China continues supporting Ethiopia’s efforts in promoting the well-being of its citizens and its economy. The financial assistance to implement the ‘Beautifying Sheger’ is a case in point. Ethiopia’s ambitious project of beautifying the capital Addis Ababa by treating waters of rivers crossing the city and developing riverside for a recreational purpose which covers 56 kilometers.
The project is estimated to cost 29 billion Ethiopian Birr (about 1.1 billion USD) and is expected to be completed in three years. When Ethiopia primary launched Beautifying Sheger Project and called on the assistance of partners, China is the first to response to the call.
Accordingly, the 12km section of the entire 56kms river cleanup and rehabilitation work is being supported by the Chinese Government in a grant secured earlier this year. The first phase of the project, launched on Tuesday, will be completed in two phases of which the 32 hectares of Central Square and 12 km of riverside development will be completed in the second quarter of 2020.
Appreciating the green initiative of Prime Minister Abiy, Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia, Tan Jian said Abiy has set up the goal of making Ethiopia Africa’s prosperity icon and reaffirmed Chinese support to the Prime Minister including in the landmark Sheger project.
In the past, China’s development and technical assistance helped Ethiopia to register double-digit economy over the past two decades. Now again, its new support, besides beautifying Addis Ababa, would a key impact in terms of attracting tourism and investment to Ethiopia. So, it is worth appreciating the people and governments of China for their unreserved support and commitment to assist development projects.
The Ethiopian Herald October 3, 2019
