Addis Ababa – Ethiopia has been actively engaging in fostering regional integration and development across East Africa, while also focusing on ensuring peace in the area.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Fisseha Shawel, the Director-General of African Affairs, during an interview with ENA, highlighted that Ethiopia’s foreign policy is deeply committed to building strong, cooperative relationships with its neighboring countries. This approach is designed to boost bilateral and regional cooperation across various sectors including political diplomacy, economic partnerships, security collaboration, cultural exchanges, and environmental sustainability. Shawel stressed that Ethiopia prioritizes its neighboring countries with the goal of promoting regional stability, mutual prosperity, and sustainable development, which are beneficial for all parties involved.
Ethiopia’s proactive role in the region is part of a broader strategy to address shared challenges and promote peace by leveraging collective strengths to achieve shared goals within the Horn of Africa and beyond. Fisseha noted the importance of close cooperation with neighboring countries to drive positive development outcomes and lasting peace. He added that the relationships between Ethiopia and its neighbors in political, economic, and social spheres are strong and continually growing.
Shawel further detailed that various countries, including Sudan, South Sudan, Kenya, and Djibouti, are benefiting from infrastructure such as power supply, railway lines, telecommunications, and water pipelines provided by Ethiopia. He emphasized the ongoing efforts to strengthen Ethiopia’s influence and impact in the region. Upon the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, the neighboring countries are expected to significantly benefit from increased energy resources.
Ethiopia continues to ensure its commitment to sustainable peace and development through increased cooperation among the countries in the region, aiming to further strengthen its foundational role in East Africa’s path towards integration and mutual development.