Pakistan Strengthens Bilateral Relations with Ethiopia: Chairman Senate Gilani

Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani has reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong commitment to strengthening ties with Ethiopia, emphasizing the need to expand cooperation in trade, investment, defense, and education.

During a meeting with Ethiopian Ambassador Jemal Beker Abdula, Gilani highlighted the long-standing partnership between the two nations on multilateral platforms for global peace and stability. He stressed that enhancing trade and economic collaboration would bring both nations closer and unlock their full potential.

The Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) was introduced as a key initiative to streamline business and investment opportunities, offering a win-win framework for Ethiopia and other friendly nations.

Gilani welcomed the launch of direct flights between Karachi and Addis Ababa, which is expected to enhance people-to-people exchanges and economic linkages. He also encouraged Ethiopia to explore Pakistan’s expertise in digital identity solutions, citing NADRA’s successful projects in Nigeria, Sudan, Kenya, and Somalia.

While acknowledging Ethiopia’s online visa facility for Pakistani citizens, Gilani emphasized the need to boost bilateral trade, particularly in medical and surgical equipment, pharmaceuticals, and high-quality sports goods, including Pakistan-made footballs used in international tournaments.

On education and diplomatic training, Gilani noted that Pakistan offers scholarships to Ethiopian students and provides training for Ethiopian diplomats at its Foreign Service Academy.

The meeting also covered defense cooperation, with both countries facing similar challenges of terrorism and extremism. Gilani reiterated that enhanced defense collaboration could help strengthen security ties.

Recognizing the historical bond between Pakistan and Ethiopia, Gilani recalled Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto’s visit to Ethiopia in 1972, which laid the foundation for bilateral engagement. He invited his Ethiopian counterpart for a parliamentary visit to Pakistan, highlighting the role of parliamentary exchanges in fostering stronger diplomatic relations.

Ambassador Abdula expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s initiatives and reaffirmed Ethiopia’s desire to expand ties in diverse sectors, emphasizing the shared history of cooperation between the two nations.