BY YESUF ENDRIS
ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopian diplomats expressed readiness to prioritize economic diplomacy and to create the linkage between the former and the private sectors of countries of deployment.
Speaking at the discussion forum held recently between diplomats and the private sector, Ethiopian Ambassador to Italy Demitu Hambisa said due attention has been given to taking advantage of Italy’s enormous investment opportunities and growing economic dynamism.
Demitu further noted that Ethiopia’s Embassy in Milan and the Consulate General in Milan have held regular discussions with Italian companies and investors on the way to invest in Ethiopia. Accordingly, in the last year alone, several large-scale Italian companies invested in different sectors in Ethiopia and created a sizable number of jobs. “We are working to link the Ethiopian private sector with Italian counterparts.”
Ethiopian Ambassador to South Korea Dessie Dalke also stated that a preliminary agreement that allows South Korean technology companies to invest in Ethiopia has been reached. “There are positive developments in partnering the Ethiopian private sector with the South Koreans. The embassy has given special consideration to economic diplomacy.”
For his part, the Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Associations President Melaku Ezezew (Eng.) said that the economic situation of Ethiopia still needs rigorous diplomatic partnerships with industrialized nations. “Ethiopian investors need technology and knowledge exchange; so diplomats should create vital events and platforms that aim to interlink Ethiopians with foreigners.”
Foreign Affairs State Minister Ambassador MisganuArga also stated that the government desires diplomats and missionaries to capitalize on international bazaars and trade expos to promote Ethiopia’s trade and investment opportunities.
Diplomats should follow scientific and international approaches. The economic potential of Ethiopia can pull real investors if it is promoted properly. So, the growing foreign direct investment needs further steps for more favorable results, the state minister remarked.
The Ethiopian Herald January 17/2023
