Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos has met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi for key talks, on the sidelines of the first BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Rio de Janeiro, Their engagement on Monday underscored the enduring "all-weather strategic partnership" between Ethiopia and China, with both ministers reaffirming their dedication to its strength and committing to enhanced collaboration on bilateral, multilateral, and BRICS-related matters.
China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi conveyed his country's support for Ethiopia taking on a greater role internationally and regionally. He highlighted China's backing for Ethiopia's efforts to contribute to the development and revitalization of the African continent. Wang Yi also noted Ethiopia's standing as a major African nation and an important voice for emerging economies.
Minister Gedion Timothewos commended China's modernization achievements, describing them as having attracted global attention and serving as a model for human progress and the collective modernization journey of the Global South. He voiced appreciation for China's long-standing cooperation with Ethiopia, particularly in its economic development and livelihood improvement efforts, as well as China's strong support for peace and development across Africa.
Looking ahead, the Ethiopian Foreign Minister stated that Ethiopia is eager to strengthen synergy with China under the Belt and Road Initiative, proposed by China. He emphasized the goal of ensuring that the all-weather strategic partnership between the two nations yields more tangible benefits for the Ethiopian people.
Minister Gedion also conveyed Ethiopia's deep concern regarding the rise of unilateral protectionism. He affirmed Ethiopia's readiness to work closely with BRICS partners to safeguard the common interests of developing countries.
For his part, Foreign Minister Wang Yi stated that China is prepared to implement the outcomes of the 2024 summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Beijing. He articulated China's desire to advance the bilateral all-weather strategic partnership to achieve new results that bring greater benefits to the peoples of both countries.
Wang Yi noted that the 21st century is poised for development and revitalization among developing nations, viewing the African continent as on the path to modernization with a bright future. He asserted that China's cooperation with Africa is free of selfish motives, does not involve major-power competition, and avoids geopolitical rivalry, positioning China as Africa's most reliable development partner. Wang Yi concluded by stating China's willingness to share modernization opportunities with African nations, help them enhance their capacity for independent development, and jointly forge a brighter future for the Global South through unity and self-strengthening.