Ethiopia and Malta Enhance Bilateral Ties in Various Sectors

ADDIS ABABA – Malta’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ronald Micallef, recently detailed the burgeoning relationship between Ethiopia and Malta, emphasizing their strengthened ties across several critical sectors during an exclusive discussion with the Ethiopian News Agency.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, the collaborative efforts have particularly flourished in areas like cyber diplomacy, information technology, digital initiatives, tourism, logistics, and international connectivity. He highlighted the successful implementation of agreements in aviation, tourism, and diplomatic education, reflecting the dynamic and productive nature of this bilateral partnership.

Micallef also shed light on the importance of high-level exchanges in bolstering these ties, noting visits by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Malta and consistent engagements from the Maltese foreign minister to Ethiopia. These diplomatic interactions have catalyzed further advancements, with sixteen Maltese businesses actively pursuing ventures and partnerships within Ethiopia, following the inaugural Ethiopia-Malta Business Forum held in Addis Ababa.

The ambassador articulated a strong conviction in trade’s pivotal role in this international cooperation, aspiring that these interactions will not only boost bilateral trade but also foster innovation and new industry creation, especially in the realms of digital technology and education. He viewed this engagement as not just a trade mission but a robust vote of confidence in Ethiopia’s economic potential.

On environmental efforts, Micallef commended Ethiopia’s tree planting campaigns, positioning the country as a commendable example in combating climate change. He juxtaposed this with Malta’s focus on addressing rising sea levels, underscoring the mutual benefits and learning opportunities from shared environmental initiatives.

This diplomatic momentum aligns with Malta’s broader strategic vision for Africa, leveraging their embassy in Addis Ababa as a conduit for multifaceted engagement. Ambassador Micallef accentuated the tangible outcomes of such diplomacy, particularly in fostering direct business dialogues and collaborations that generate employment and spur economic growth, embodying the essence of productive international relations.

The establishment of the Maltese embassy in Addis Ababa in 2021 has marked a significant milestone, building on diplomatic relations that date back to the 1970s, heralding a new era of mutual cooperation and shared aspirations between the two nations.