Africa-Press – Ethiopia. Bangladesh has expressed strong interest in expanding its bilateral cooperation with Ethiopia, highlighting growing diplomatic, economic, and people to people ties between the two countries.
Speaking at an event marking Bangladesh’s Independence and National Day in Addis Ababa, Ambassador Air Vice Marshal Sitwat Nayeem said, “Bangladesh is keen to bolster its bilateral cooperation with Ethiopia.”
Recalling historical relations, he noted, “Post to our liberation in December 1971, Ethiopia was among some of the earliest African nations to recognize Bangladesh as a sovereign state, standing with us at a critical moment of our history.”
The ambassador emphasized that relations entered a new phase in 2016 with the establishment of Bangladesh’s resident embassy in Addis Ababa.
He also pointed to recent economic engagements, stating, “Last November, we successfully hosted the landmark Africa Bangladesh Trade Show and Business Summit here in Addis Ababa, connecting exporters and importers in sectors like jute, leather, ICT and more to the Ethiopian market.”
He further highlighted the launch of a direct air link, noting, “The recent commencement of Ethiopian Airlines direct flight to Dhaka has created a vital bridge between our two friendly states, fostering people to people connection and opening a new door of trade, commerce and tourism.”
Addressing global challenges, Nayeem underlined the shared vulnerability of the two countries to climate change. “Both Bangladesh and Ethiopia are on the front lines of the climate crisis. We are nations that produce the least emissions, yet suffer the most. Our voice at the international stage must be collective and firm. We demand climate justice and urgent global action to protect our future generations,” he said.
He added, “The ties between Bangladesh and Ethiopia are rooted in mutual respect and shared aspirations.”
On the Ethiopian side, Ambassador Dewano Kedir, Director General for Middle Eastern, Asian, and Pacific Countries Affairs, reaffirmed Addis Ababa’s commitment to stronger relations.
“Ethiopia reaffirms its commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation with Bangladesh for the mutual benefit of our two nations,” he said.
Highlighting longstanding ties, he stated, “Our two countries enjoy a long history of relations dating back to the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1975.”
Dewano noted that cooperation has expanded in multilateral platforms, including the United Nations, the Group of 77, the Non-Aligned Movement and South South Cooperation, adding that both countries have made significant contributions to UN peacekeeping missions.
He also underscored Ethiopia’s interest in deepening economic collaboration. “Ethiopia is keen to strengthen economic ties with Bangladesh, recognizing Bangladesh’s expertise in industries such as garment and textile technology,” he said.
Calling for increased investment, he added, “To strengthen economic ties between Ethiopia and Bangladesh, we want to invite Bangladeshi businesspersons to invest in Ethiopia,” pointing to ongoing economic reforms and emerging opportunities.
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