Jaishankar charts strategic course with Ethiopia, eyes deeper trade ties

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held comprehensive discussions with Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos Hessebon on Friday, marking the final stop of his three-nation African visit. The talks encompassed a broad agenda including trade, investment, infrastructure development, maritime security, technology partnerships and cultural exchange, underscoring New Delhi's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations on the continent.

Jaishankar, who arrived in Addis Ababa from Côte d'Ivoire, described the meeting as an opportunity to deepen India-Ethiopia's strategic partnership. "The India-Ethiopia Strategic Partnership is based on our shared values, common aspirations and historic South-South solidarity," the minister stated, highlighting the foundation upon which the two nations seek to build expanded cooperation.

Beyond bilateral matters, the two foreign ministers also discussed broader global developments and prospects for enhanced multilateral engagement. The conversation encompassed strengthening the India-African Union partnership, reflecting India's broader engagement strategy with the continental body headquartered in the Ethiopian capital.

Jaishankar was received at Addis Ababa airport by State Minister of Foreign Affairs Berhanu Tsegaye, signaling the diplomatic importance attached to the visit by the Ethiopian government.