ADDIS ABABA — Ethiopia has achieved significant diplomatic successes in safeguarding its national interests in the concluded Ethiopian fiscal year (EFY), according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Briefing the media on the performance of 2016 today, Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Nebiyu Tedla said Ethiopia has carried out various achievements at bilateral and multilateral arenas.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, a lot of efforts have been exerted to augment Ethiopia’s cooperation with neighboring countries based on common interests. For instance, 12 agreements have been signed to forge Ethiopia’s relations with neighboring countries in various spheres, including tourism and transport, among others.

The spokesperson also stated that Ethiopia has actively reflected its positions in different forums and the decisions passed have made it possible for Ethiopia to protect its national interests. He recalled the several visits made and agreements signed by high-ranking leaders in the fiscal year in order to strengthen Ethiopia’s bilateral and multilateral diplomatic relations. More than 71 agreements have been signed, which have enhanced Ethiopia’s national interests through visits conducted by leaders and ministers, he added.

Ethiopia’s joining the BRICS is considered the biggest success in multilateral diplomacy in the concluded fiscal year. In terms of investment, 507 foreign investors made pre-investment visits, and 18 joint ventures were created with foreign investors. Diplomatic success was also registered in reducing loans, debt treatment, and extension of repayment periods. More than 114 market linkages were created to promote Ethiopian products to the world.

Above all, the fiscal year marked a time when Ethiopia expressed its rightful request to access the sea, Nebiyu noted. He also highlighted activities carried out to protect the rights of citizens in the Middle East, Sudan, and other countries. Over 40,000 people were repatriated from various countries, including Saudi Arabia and Sudan, in the stated period.