ADDIS ABABA — President Sahle-Work Zewde hosted a meeting today at her office with the Irish delegation, headed by Ireland's Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Minister of Defence, Micheál Martin. During the meeting, the two sides engaged in extensive discussions on various bilateral and regional matters of mutual importance.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, both parties affirmed the necessity to fully harness the potential for cooperation between the two countries in the economic sphere, particularly in trade, aviation, and tourism. They also deliberated on Ethiopia's potential role in contributing to regional security, considering its influence in the Horn of Africa.

Earlier today, Micheál Martin also held discussions with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on various bilateral issues. Furthermore, Martin conducted several meetings with Ethiopian government officials during his visit. The Deputy Prime Minister's visit to Ethiopia marks the thirtieth anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Ireland.

He is scheduled to conclude his visit tomorrow and return to Dublin.