ADDIS ABABA – “The official visit of Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz is very historical to Ethiopia.
We Ethiopians always remember oldest allies and friends. We had used Austrian Maria Theresa coin for over two hundred years—which marked the trade relations and exchange of currency between the two countries.”
So said Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed as he described the Ethio-Austrian long-standing relations in a joint briefing the two leaders gave yesterday at the Prime Minister’s Office, following bilateral discussions on various issues.
Dr. Abiy said the visit of the Chancellor will strengthen the cooperation between the two countries in areas like investment, trade and technological exchanges. To him, the diplomatic ties which gained new momentum with the Chancellor’s visit will also heighten relations of Africa and Europe.
The premier also expressed hopes that both sides will deliver up to their discussions and boost ties between the two countries. “This young, strong, visionary Austrian has got big vision to Ethiopia and we will work hand in glove with him to translate the issues of our discussion to practice,” he said.
Chancellor Kurz for his part admired the reform actions and positive and faster economic performances that the prime minister inspired. “Your also role model to Africa for creating a vital democracy. I’m also pleased to meet a young colleague.” Stating that Ethiopia is much bigger than Austria, the Chancellor went on saying that his country has much interest to cooperate on areas of economic development and innovation.
“I’m to meet people from the business sector and also have big business representative here. This is a big potential for the cooperation of the two countries and Africa and EU. Asked about his measures in empowering women, he said, “ Women have equal rights of representation and the government is enjoying the fruits of their labor from the inception.”
“As an avenue for further improving diplomatic relations, the two leaders also explored the potential for the opening of an Ethiopian Embassy in Vienna,” the Prime Minister’s Office announced later in the Day.
BY WORKU BELACHEW
