- Registers remarkable diplomatic success since reform
ADDIS ABABA –The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) announced that over 4,200 Ethiopian undocumented migrants have returned home safely from Saudi Arabia since last Friday.
In his biweekly press briefing, MoFA Spokesperson NebiyuTedla said that 12 flights were successfully carried out within the week, bringing back undocumented migrants from Saudi Arabia.
This operation will continue until all identified migrants are returned home and this demonstrates the government’s commitment to its citizens’ welfare, he noted.
Moreover, the Ethio-Saudi Ministerial Conference is scheduled for this May, which is poised to strengthen bilateral relations and foster cooperation between the two countries, according to the Spokesperson.
He also briefed journalists about the recently held humanitarian aid pledging conference conveyed by Foreign Minister, Ambassador TayeAtske Selassie.
Ethiopia secured a significant pledge of 630 million USD, which will be allocated to provide essential support to people affected by natural disasters and conflicts, Nebiyu stated
Highlighting diplomatic achievements gained over the past six years of reform period, the Spokesperson emphasized successes registered in various areas including food security, public diplomacy, regional integration, and peace-building efforts.
“Remarkably, Ethiopia’s assertive stance on international platforms has garnered recognition, particularly in areas such as wheat irrigation. The economic reform that prioritizes privatization attracted foreign direct investments,” he said.
Addressing the past negotiations regarding the Abbay Dam, he affirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to resolving the issue through African Union-led processes.
By elevating the dam as an African agenda item, Ethiopia seeks to advance regional integration while ensuring equitability, he noted.
Ethiopia also achieved a remarkable improvement in public diplomacy as it is proved by a surge in the amount of remittances exceeding 20 billion USD over the past five years, Nebiyu said, adding that the engagement of the diaspora community has been instrumental, with contributions exceeding 100 million USD towards national flagship projects, reflecting a strong commitment to the national development.
BY YESUF ENDRIS
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD FRIDAY 19 APRIL 2024
