World Economic Forum 2019 kicks off in Davos (January 22, 2019)

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Addis Ababa, January 22, 2019 – The Team Veaw2019 World Economic Forum kicked off in Davos, Switzerland today with the theme “Globalization 4.0: Shaping a New Architecture in the Age of the Fourth Industrial Revolution”

The Globalization 4.0 agenda sets aside several sessions for the digital economy, including panels on blockchain settlement, dollar-pegged stablecoins, and the regulatory frameworks emerging markets will need to govern them. Consumer adoption has moved faster than policy in this area. Guides ranking the best tether casinos now circulate alongside reviews of exchanges and remittance apps, evidence that stablecoin spending has spread well beyond trading desks into everyday entertainment and commerce. For African economies courting fintech investment, the sessions carry added weight, since cross-border payment costs on the continent remain among the highest in the world.

Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed is in attendance at the official opening of the Forum which brought together world leaders, global business leaders, economists, politicians, international financiers, and renowned high-profile academics.

The Premier Minister is scheduled to address global society leaders at the Forum’s plenary session on Ethiopia’s journey of change and renewal over the past ten months, according to Office of the Prime Minister.

Earlier, the Ethiopian Prime Minister met and held discussions with Mr Mohammed Al Shaibani, CEO of Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD)-a 200 billion sovereign fund.

During the discussion, ICD expressed its keenness to invest in hospitality and agrobusiness industry in Ethiopia, according to Office of the Prime Minister.

Similarly, he had a productive meeting in Davos with George Soros, head of the Open Society Foundations.
The two parties shared views on electoral integrity, challenges of democratization, access to justice and economic inclusion, institutional and regulatory reforms.

Mr Soros applauded Ethiopia’s reforms in enabling civil societies and enacting a progressive refugee law.

Ethiopia, Switzerland Keen to scale-up ties (January 22, 2019)

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Addis Ababa, January 22, 2019 – Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu met with his Swiss counterpart, Ignazio Cassis today in Davos, Switzerland, on the margins of the 2019 World Economic Forum.
During the meeting, they discussed bilateral and multilateral issues of common interest, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Dr. Workneh briefed his Swiss counterpart on the sweeping political and economic reforms underway in Ethiopia under the new leadership.
He said the reform was vital to ensure socio-economic development, the widening of the political space, reign of the rule of law, ensuring media freedom and respect of human rights.
In such score, he noted that a number of important legislation have been in the process of revision and will soon be completed.
Dr. Workneh further underlined the importance of enhancing the bilateral economic cooperation, particularly in areas of trade and investment.
Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis has pledged to encourage the Swiss private sector to invest in Ethiopia with the view to strengthening the bilateral economic cooperation.
The two Ministers also underscored the need to finalize the signing of the agreement on avoidance of double taxation, noting that doing so would further strengthen the bilateral economic ties.
They also agreed to continue the bilateral political consultations they have been conducting at the level of the State Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the two countries.
Ethiopia and Switzerland held their 3rd round political consultation in Bern, Switzerland in March 2018. Switzerland is a key partner of Ethiopia in Federalism and Governance.
Similarly, Foreign Minister Dr. Workneh also held discussions with President of International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Mr. Peter Maurer.
Minister Dr. Workneh commended the ICRC for its practical, fruitful works it undertook to support Ethiopia over the course of time.
He also briefed the President on the sweeping political, economic reforms that has unleashed a powerful wind of hope ushering a new dawn a new chapter as Ethiopia sternly strides to tackle poverty, deep democracy and good governance across the board.
President Peter expressed his appreciation for the steps undertaken by Ethiopia to revitalize progresses politically, economically showcasing ardent determination for regional peace, stability and integration.

Italy to finance first phase of study of Massawa-Addis Ababa railway project (January 22, 2019)

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Addis Ababa, January 21, 2019 – Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed met with his Italian counterpart, Giuseppe Conte, in Rome today.
In a press conference after the meeting, Prime Minister Dr Abiy said “I had a productive discussion with international agencies and the Government of Italy.”
“The comprehensive discussion which I had with Giuseppe Conte in particular was important to to take the bilateral relationship between the two nations to the next level,” he said
PM Dr Abiy appreciated Italy’s decision to finance the first phase of study of the planned railway line project linking the Eritrean port of Massawa with the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa.
Italy also agreed to support Ethiopia’s projects to tackle food insecurity of school-aged children and rehabilitate Ethiopian soldiers who returned from Ethio-Eritrea border following the agreement inked between the two nations.
The Prime Minister also called for enhanced cooperation between Ethiopia and Italy in the areas of development, peace, and tourism.
PM Dr Abiy also made a courtesy visit with the President of the Italian Sergio Mattarella at Quirinal Palace.

Both recounted the historical relationship between the two countries and continued cooperation in key social and economic areas of development, according to Office of the Prime Minister.
Furthermore, President Mattarella expressed his appreciation of the changes that are taking place in Ethiopia and the role the country is taking in Horn region integration.
PM Dr. Abiy traveled to Italy yesterday for an official visit following the invitation by the Italian Prime Minister during his 2018 Ethiopia visit.
Earlier today the Ethiopian Premier met with chiefs of Rome based UN agencies, namely the World Food Program (WFP), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
He will be attending World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland to begin on 22 January and end on 25 January, 2019. Prime Minister Dr Abiy is one of the key speakers at the Forum.
In Davos, he will also strike dialogues with world leaders, global business leaders, economists, politicians, international financiers, and renowned high-profile academics.
The theme of this year’s World Economic Forum is “Globalization 4.0: Shaping a New Architecture in the Age of the Fourth Industrial Revolution”

Premier meets with WFP, IFAD, FAO chiefs (January 22, 2019)

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Addis Ababa, January 21, 2019 – Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed met with chiefs of Rome based UN agencies, namely the World Food Program (WFP), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
During his talks with WFP Executive Director Mr. David Beasley, PM Dr Abiy acknowledged the agency for the crucial role it has been playing in supporting the government address food security, nutrition and capacity building interventions, according to Office of the Prime Minister.
Similarly, the Prime Minister held talks with Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) in his second meeting with development partners.
Mr. Houngbo appreciated the Ethiopian Prime Minister for his courage and the changes that he has introduced this far. PM Abiy Ahmed highlighted the need for strengthening irrigation and food security interventions.
IFAD’s support to Ethiopia, which is the largest portfolio in Africa, is anchored in the Government’s commitment to the poorest communities through enhancing the productivity of smallholder farmers, pastoralists and agro-pastoralists.
They agreed to continue building on the performance of Ethiopia in addressing the need of poor communities through IFAD’s and the Government’s collaboration in medium scale irrigation and rural financing.
The Prime Minister also met with Director General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Mr. José Graziano da Silva. Mr. da Silva appreciated the role being played by Ethiopia in the Horn region noting that peace is an important pre-condition.
He also particularly noted PM Dr Abiy’s political leadership in facilitating these changes.
PM Dr Abiy on his part highlighted that integration is a priority for him and therefore peace in the region as a critical foundation for realizing this goal.
With regards to food security and agriculture, PM Abiy Ahmed emphasized that the needs of small holder farmers is notably access to markets.
“This therefore requires joint technical interventions, which both agreed to build on and strengthen the existing cooperation,” he said.
Prime Minister Dr. Abiy arrived in Rome, Italy yesterday for an official visit.
Upon arrival, he was warmly received by members of the Ethiopian community in Rome, where he will be holding key bi-lateral discussions with development partners beginning today.
He will also meet with the Prime Minister of Italy, Giuseppe Conte following his invitation to PM Dr Abiy during his 2018 Ethiopia visit, according to office of the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister will be attending World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland to begin on 22 January and end on 25 January, 2019. Prime Minister Dr Abiy is one of the key speakers at the Forum.
In Davos, he will also strike dialogues with world leaders, global business leaders, economists, politicians, international financiers, and renowned high-profile academics.
The theme of this year’s World Economic Forum is “Globalization 4.0: Shaping a New Architecture in the Age of the Fourth Industrial Revolution”

Foreign Minister Dr. Workneh, “Ethiopia’s Voice is Heard Loud and Clear” (January 18, 2019)

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Foreign Minister Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu wraps up week-long panel discussion with Ambassadors and diplomats. (January 18)
Foreign Minister Dr. Workneh shed light on contemporary political dynamics of Ethiopia and its implication on foreign relations as well as an in-depth look at prospects and challenges on Ethiopia’s economy. Highlighting the necessity of modern regulatory frameworks to handle foreign digital investments, he pointed to the influx of new digital services, ranging from enterprise cloud architecture to international mobile casino platforms and cross-border e-commerce networks, as a key priority in line with its Economic Diplomacy venture.
Foreign Minister Dr. Workneh said “Ethiopia’s voice is heard loud and clear across the globe despite lingering and looming geopolitical and global trends.” “Ethiopia’s impressive remarkable double digit economic growth in the entire continent has echoed our unparalleled commitment to eradicate poverty, deepen our democracy and sustain country development across the globe”, he added.
Commending the Ministry’s sound institutional reform to replenish the Ministry’s overall posture and stamina, Minister Dr. Workneh said, “The institutional reform is part and parcel of our move to enhance, better equip and trigger confidence across the board to meet our vision and mission for the advancement of #Ethiopia’s national interests.”
Minister Dr. Workneh also accentuated the Ministry’s vision for a prosperous and sustainable Republic fully integrated in a globalized and equitable world complementing our Diplomatic network overseas for a greater visibility and outreach.
Currently, Ethiopia stands tall with 46 Embassies and 14 Consulates abroad.

PM Dr. Abiy Attends a High-Level Meeting of Heads of State and Government on the Situation in DRC (January 18, 2019)

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PM Dr. Abiy Attends a High-Level Meeting of Heads of State and Government on the situation in DRC later today in Addis (January 17). The high-level Ethiopian delegation included Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, Minister of Foreign Affairs.
The President of the Republic of Rwanda and the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) H.E. Paul Kagame convened a high Level Consultation Meeting of Heads of State and Government on the situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo in Addis.
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission stated that this meeting was called with a view to finding a viable solution that appeals to all stakeholders involved in the DRC situation.
The Democratic Republic of the Congo is the second largest country in Africa.

Ethiopia’s FM meets with UN Secretary General Representative to Africa (January 18, 2019)

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Addis Ababa, January 18, 2019 – Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Workneh Gebeyehu, met with the newly appointed Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General to the AU and Head of UN Office to AU (UNOAU) Ms. Hanna Serwaa Tetteh.
On the occasion, Dr Workneh said Ethiopia was working with both the United Nations and the African Union in different fields to see a more stable Africa.
“I’m confident that the appointment of Ms. Hanna Serwaa Tetteh will serve as a bridge in cementing the bond between the AU and UN,” he added.
The Foreign Minister assured that the government will offer support in the discharge of her responsibilities.
The Special Representative expressed her commitment to work closely with the government of Ethiopian and other pertinent bodies to strengthen the ties between the UN and AU.
“I’m happy to be here in Ethiopia,” she added.

Ethiopia, Rwanda vow to strengthen ties (January 18, 2019)

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Addis Ababa, January 18, 2019 – Foreign Minister Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu exchanged views with his Rwandan counterpart, Richard Sezibera on aspects of bilateral and regional issues today.
Foreign Minister Dr. Workneh warmly welcomed Sezibera and expressed his satisfaction on the excellent relations between Ethiopia and Rwanda.
Highlighting collaboration on a myriad of bilateral and regional issues of common interest, Foreign Minister Dr. Workneh said,“Ethiopia and Rwanda enjoy excellent relations, I’m satisfied on the level of cooperation between the two friendly countries.”
“Ethiopia and Rwanda cooperation is practical and exemplary.”
Foreign Minister Sezibera on his part appreciated the strong deep-rooted relation between the two countries.
He said “ I applaud Ethiopia for unleashing a new era of optimism in the Horn of Africa,” further adding “Rwanda support the recent political and economic reforms undertaken by Ethiopia; Rwanda is committed to boost business, trade and investment cooperation with Ethiopia.”
Rwanda opened its Embassy in Addis Ababa in September 1978 while Ethiopia opened its Embassy in Kigali in April 2017, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

African Leaders Meet In Addis To Review Political, Security Situation In DRC (January 17, 2019)

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Addis Ababa, January 17, 2019 – African Heads of State and Government today met in Ethiopia’s capital Addis Ababa to review the political and security situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Ethiopia’s ri e inister r Abi Ah ed rrent hair o A and resident o anda a l a a e o th A rican resident ril a aphosa andan resident o eri seveni and hairperson o the A o ission o ssa a i aha at are in attendance of the summit
In his opening remark at the summit kicked off at the African Union headquarters, Paul Kagame, said the efforts being made to find African solutions for African problems is important to prevent foreign interference.
The crisis occurred in the Democratic Republic of Congo following the presidential elections held on 30th December 2018 should be resolved by authorized institutions in the country, Kagame said.
Despite an invitation from AU, President of DRC Joseph Kabila is unable to attend the meeting due to current situation in the country. However, he is ready to accept if the African Union comes up with solutions, he said.
hairperson o the A rican nion o ission o ssa a i aha at for his part said toda ’s eetin as called ith a vie to inding a viable solution that appeals to all stakeholders involved in the DRC situation.

The 37th Ordinary Session of the Permanent Representatives’ Committee (PRC) Opens in Addis Ababa (January 15, 2019)

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The PRC will prepare the agenda of the 32nd African Union Summit with appropriate recommendations for consideration by the Executive Council scheduled to take place from 7th – 8th February 2019. The meeting will bring together all the Ambassadors of the 55 African Union member states based in Addis Ababa and key AU officials.