Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim arrives in Ethiopia for his first Africa tour, marking 60 years of diplomatic ties and new cooperation agreements.
ADDIS ABABA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim arrived in Ethiopia’s capital on Sunday afternoon, commencing his inaugural official visit to the African continent.
The Malaysian delegation landed at Bole International Airport, where Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed Ali personally welcomed Anwar.
Anwar’s delegation includes Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department Datuk Seri Zaliha Mustafa.
This landmark visit signals Malaysia’s renewed commitment to strengthening engagement with Africa through the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa.
The three-day visit reciprocates Dr Abiy Ahmed’s trip to Malaysia in October last year.
It celebrates six decades of diplomatic relations established between Malaysia and Ethiopia in January 1965.
The reopening of Malaysia’s embassy in Addis Ababa on September 23 after 42 years underscores Malaysia’s intention to deepen bilateral relations.
Malaysian officials anticipate signing several agreements covering health cooperation, air services, and tourism.
A collaboration document between Kuala Lumpur City Council and Addis Ababa City Administration will formalise strategic dialogue mechanisms.
Anwar will pay a courtesy call on Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie during his stay.
He will also meet African Union Commission chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf to discuss regional cooperation.
The Prime Minister will deliver a special lecture titled “Bridging Civilisations, Building Futures” for youth organisations.
Ethiopia ranked as Malaysia’s 26th largest trading partner in Africa during 2023.
Bilateral trade reached RM446.8 million, with Malaysian exports valued at RM358.6 million.
Malaysian exports to Ethiopia increased by 24.6% compared to the previous year.
Following his Ethiopia visit, Anwar will travel to Johannesburg for the G20 Leaders’ Summit.
He will conclude his Africa tour with a visit to Nairobi, Kenya before returning to Malaysia. – Bernama
ALSO READ: Anwar to champion Malaysia’s interests on three-nation Africa tour
