Ethiopia and Brazil have held talks to boost cooperation in their sugar industries, highlighting the sector's economic significance.
A high-level delegation from Ethiopia, led by Melekit Sahlu, the Deputy CEO of Ethiopian Investment Holdings, accompanied by Leulseged Tadesse, the Ethiopian Ambassador to Brazil, undertook a significant working visit to Brazil. The delegation aimed to explore partnerships with private companies in Brazil that specialize in the sugar sector.
During this visit, which was both strategic and informative, the Ethiopian delegation sought to gain insights into modern production processes and advanced technologies that could foster the growth of Ethiopia’s sugar industry.
By learning about the innovative techniques used in Brazil, the delegation aimed to build a competitive sugar industry back home, which is essential not only for economic growth but also for enhancing food security.
In addition to technology transfer, the delegation expressed interest in understanding the energy benefits derived from sugar byproducts, which could potentially offer sustainable solutions for energy production in Ethiopia.
To facilitate these goals, they engaged in constructive discussions with Samo Tosati, the Head of International Relations of the Brazilian Sugarcane and Sugar Industry Region. These discussions were centred around strengthening bilateral relations through comprehensive knowledge sharing and technological support.
Throughout their stay, the Ethiopian delegation met with senior policymakers and high-ranking officials within Brazilian executive institutions. These meetings were aimed at exploring various avenues for cooperation, allowing the Ethiopian representatives to learn from Brazil’s extensive experience and robust practices in the sugar sector.
Furthermore, the Ethiopian delegation expressed a strong interest in receiving support from Brazil to facilitate the exchange of technological innovations and knowledge that Brazil has successfully implemented in its sugar industry. They emphasized the importance of a collaborative approach to build capacity and enhance the productivity of Ethiopia’s sugar production.
For their part, the Ethiopian Investment Holdings announced its intention to collaborate closely with the Brazil-Africa Institute.
This partnership is expected to bolster Ethiopia’s efforts to expand its global partnerships and leverage Brazil’s expertise in the sugar industry, contributing to the overall strategic goals set forth by the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Through these multi-faceted efforts, Ethiopia aims to revolutionize its sugar industry while fostering lasting ties with Brazil.