Islamabad: The First Lady of Pakistan, Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, welcomed Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, the Ethiopian Ambassador, at the Aiwan-e-Sadr in a farewell meeting, marking the end of his tenure. The meeting underscored the strengthening ties between Pakistan and Ethiopia.

Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari acknowledged the Ambassador’s efforts in fostering friendly relations between the two countries. She highlighted the historical significance of Pakistan’s ties with Ethiopia, recalling the visit of former Prime Minister Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto to Ethiopia. The First Lady emphasized the need to build on these foundations to enhance bilateral relations.

The discussion also covered environmental challenges, with the First Lady noting Pakistan’s status as one of the top ten environmentally stressed nations. She shared ongoing initiatives in her constituency aimed at flood recovery and emphasized potential collaboration on climate-smart agriculture and renewable energy between the two countries. These efforts align with Pakistan’s Green Pakistan Initiative and Ethiopia’s reforestation achievements.

In the realm of economic cooperation, Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari congratulated Ethiopia on its recent inclusion in BRICS and expressed Pakistan’s commitment to expanding trade and investment ties. She highlighted the significance of a new Bilateral Trade Agreement, an upcoming Single Country Exhibition in Addis Ababa, and the resumption of direct flights between Karachi and Addis Ababa, which are expected to enhance connectivity and economic linkages.

Ambassador Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula lauded the First Lady’s contributions to promoting Pakistan’s image and bilateral relations. He outlined Ethiopia’s progress as an emerging market and emphasized the potential for increased trade and investment opportunities for Pakistan in the African region. The Ambassador also extended an invitation to the First Lady to visit Ethiopia, suggesting collaboration with Ethiopia’s First Lady on shared interests.

The meeting concluded with the First Lady wishing Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula success in his future endeavors, expressing optimism for the continued growth of the Pakistan-Ethiopia partnership. Senator Sherry Rehman also attended the meeting, underscoring the importance of the diplomatic engagement.