Ethiopia and Russia enjoy a longstanding diplomatic relation that goes beyond a century. Russia’s support to Ethiopia during the battle of Adwa is an unforgettable one which can be raised always as Ethiopians commemorate the history annually.
The cooperation between the two countries has been growing ever since. For instance, during the Africa –Russia summit over the week, Ethiopia and Russia have agreed to further upscale their cooperation in education, agriculture and mining sectors. Furthermore, the Government of Russia has also canceled 163.5 million USD debts to support Ethiopian development.
Ethiopia is now at a time of economic reform. It is attempting to recover from the financial shortcomings and crisis it suffered recently. The agreement is considerate of the timely needs of the country.
As Ethiopia’s role in the continent grows up the relation and cooperation between the two countries is also showing due growth and improvement. As a result Ethiopia and Russia are now working together in discharging their international responsibilities of mutual interest. Russia has also agreed to support Ethiopia’s efforts of building nuclear power for peaceful development and they signed agreement to get aid from Russia.
There is also a potential for cooperation between Russia and Ethiopia in science and education. Russia pledged to support biological research under the Joint Russian-Ethiopian Biological Expedition, which has been operating there for more 30 years.
The strong cooperation in the education and capacity building sector is also worth mentioning. Many Ethiopian students study at Russian universities, including civilian universities and those operated by the Defence Ministry and the Interior Ministry.
During his discussion with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed this week Russian President Vladimir Putin said “I highlight the role of an intergovernmental organization for development, where Ethiopia is holding the chairmanship.”
Putin has also acknowledged Ethiopia’s positive collaboration to Russia in ‘coauthoring Russia’s resolutions at the UN General Assembly. This demonstrates the strong trust and mutual cooperation between the two countries that was built throughout the decades old strong ties.
More importantly, as Prime Minister Abiy said Ethiopia is now working ardently to change the zero sum game in dealing with international peace and security especially through the ideals of medemer. There is no doubt that the exemplary and ever growing ties between Ethiopia and Russia will serve as an important reinforcement to realize medemer and ensure peace, harmony and spirit of collaboration in Africa. This will also prop up the ongoing efforts of boosting the overall collaboration between Africa and Russia.
Oct 26/2019
