Pakistan-Ethiopia Relations Shine at Ethiopian Cultural Night

ISLAMABAD, SEP 12 (DNA) : Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Atta Tarrar has said that Ethiopia is a country well-known for its rich cultural diversity and abundant opportunities, making it a distinctive and thriving nation. He expressed these sentiments while addressing the Ethiopian New Year Cultural Night ceremony at the S.M. Muneer Auditorium, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

 The Minister while extending best wishes for the prosperity and development of Ethiopia said that both Pakistan and Ethiopia share a common bond through their Islamic heritage, agricultural economies, cultural diversity, historical trade ties, strategic locations and friendly relations, fostering a strong foundation for bilateral cooperation and understanding.

He expressed the hope that direct air operation of Ethiopia airlines will play a pivotal role in strengthening people to people, business to business, tourism and cultural ties between the two countries.

Federal Minister for Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development Chaudhry Salik Hussain highlighted the growing bilateral relations between Pakistan and Ethiopia. He praised the expanding trade ties, direct flights and contributions of the Pakistani diaspora in Ethiopia. The Minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthen ties with Ethiopia through the Engage Africa vision, exploring new avenues for cooperation in technology, agriculture and education.

 The Minister reaffirmed his dedication to sustaining the strong partnership and friendship between the two nations, further enhancing their existing relationship to bring prosperity and benefits to the people of both countries.

Ambassador of Ethiopia Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula said that his country considers Pakistan as a strategic and reliable partner and that both the countries are determined to enhance their bilateral relations especially business and trade ties. He expressed gratitude for the support of Pakistan government in the start of Ethiopian Airlines’ operations in Karachi which is playing an important role in implementing ‘Look Africa and Engage Afrcia’ policy of Pakistan to strengthen multiple relations between the two countries.

The Ambassador showcased Ethiopia’s vibrant heritage, cultural importance, and breathtaking natural beauty. He emphasized Ethiopia’s distinctive position as the cradle of humanity, coffee’s birthplace and the Nile’s source. Expressing hope for a collaborative approach to address climate change challenges, he envisioned joint ventures between Pakistan and Ethiopia to foster a sustainable future.

Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), highlighted the robust bilateral relations between Pakistan and Ethiopia, with Ethiopian Airlines significantly contributing to this partnership. He noted that the close collaboration between the Ethiopian Embassy and ICCI is poised to further enhance the ties between the two nations, driving mutual growth and cooperation.

He added that today’s Ethiopian cultural night is a testament to the growing people-to-people relations between the two countries.

The Ethiopian cultural troupe captivated the audience with its enthralling performance, receiving a standing ovation.

On this occasion, the Ethiopian Ambassador, Jemal Beker Abdula, presented traditional Ethiopian shawls to both the Federal Ministers as well as Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari and Zafar Bakhtawari, acknowledging their significant contributions to strengthening bilateral relations.

In return, Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari presented ICCI shields to the Ministers and the Ambassador. Additionally, souvenirs were given to ICCI Executive members in appreciation of their dedicated services.

The ceremony was also attended by Ambassadors of Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, High Commissioner of Malaysia, DHMs of Indonesia, Palestine, Ambassador  Hamid Asghar Khan ( Additional Secretary Africa) prominent business leaders, ICCI executives, members and media persons.