China's historic and enduring relationship with Ethiopia and the broader African continent has evolved over the years into an "all-weather" partnership with win-win outcomes for both sides, Ethiopian Former Prime Minister Hailemariam Dessalegn told Xinhua.
"China is a friend to us. The Chinese government and people have provided tremendous opportunities in Africa, and the intention is win-win," Hailemariam he said.
He said engagements with Chinese leaders "has taught me a lot about how the Chinese are looking into things carefully and cautiously and navigating through all the ups and downs."
Hailemriam emphasized the similarities between the two ancient civilizations, saying that Ethiopia and China share a deep historical connection characterized by mutual respect and shared aspirations.
Bilateral relations have seen new heights in recent years, including Ethiopia's membership in the BRICS alongside China and other like-minded nations, signaling the growing importance of the Global South, he said.
In October 2023, China and Ethiopia announced the elevation of their ties to an “all-weather strategic partnership” during Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's visit to Beijing. Abiy also attended the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.
Hailemariam underscored the importance of Chinese engagement in Ethiopia's holistic socio-economic development, which includes robust infrastructure development and building the capacity of Ethiopians, particularly among the country's burgeoning youth.
He singled out the 752-km Ethiopia-Djibouti Standard Gauge Railway as one of the early harvests of Ethiopia's cooperation with China under the China-proposed Belt and Road Initiative.
The former prime minister further called on China and Africa to collaborate in strengthening the South-South Cooperation framework, stressing that such cooperation can significantly enhance the collective capacity of the Global South and have a greater impact on the global stage.