ISLAMABAD: In a meeting held at the residence of Chairman Senate Syed Yousaf Raza Gilani, H.E. Dr. Oumer Hussein Oba, Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to Pakistan, discussed the enhancement of bilateral relations between Pakistan and Ethiopia. The discussions focused on deepening diplomatic, economic, and cultural ties between the two nations.

According to Senate of Pakistan, Chairman Senate welcomed the Ethiopian Ambassador, expressing goodwill and reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening relations with Ethiopia. He highlighted the historical foundations of the partnership, noting the pioneering role of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto in establishing diplomatic engagement through his 1973 visit to Ethiopia and the opening of Pakistan’s Embassy in Addis Ababa.

The meeting emphasized the forthcoming Bilateral Political Consultation Agreement as a means to institutionalize diplomatic engagement and broaden cooperation on regional and international matters. Chairman Senate underscored the importance of parliamentary diplomacy and the establishment of the Pakistan-Ethiopia Friendship Group in the Senate of Pakistan, which he believed would enhance dialogue and parliamentary engagement between the two countries.

Economic cooperation was a focal point of the discussion, with Chairman Senate highlighting Pakistan’s “Engage Africa Policy” as a framework for expanding strategic and economic ties with African nations. He stressed the need to strengthen trade partnerships in various sectors, including agriculture, engineering, and information technology, among others. Additionally, he welcomed Ethiopia’s new Embassy in Islamabad and the increased connectivity through direct air links.

Cultural and educational linkages were also discussed, with Chairman Senate advocating for expanded scholarship opportunities and academic partnerships between institutions in Pakistan and Ethiopia. He noted the successful “Ethio-Pakistan Green Dialogue on Climate Resilience and Environmental Sustainability” as a step forward in climate cooperation.

Both parties reiterated their commitment to enhancing cooperation across political, parliamentary, economic, educational, environmental, and cultural domains. Ambassador H.E. Dr. Oumer Hussein Oba expressed gratitude for the warm reception and appreciated Pakistan’s dedication to engaging with Ethiopia and the broader African continent.