Indian Ambassador to Ethiopia, Shri Anil Kumar, has highlighted the rapid growth of Ethiopia's pharmaceutical sector, emphasizing the significant opportunities this presents for Indian companies to contribute to the nation's efforts to boost domestic drug production. Speaking at the inaugural India-Ethiopia Pharmaceutical Business Forum in Addis Ababa today, Ambassador Kumar stated that such collaborations would be instrumental in strengthening Ethiopia's healthcare system and improving access to essential medicines for its citizens.
The forum, which brought together key stakeholders from both India and Ethiopia, served as a platform to discuss potential partnerships and investment prospects within the pharmaceutical industry.
Ethiopian Minister of Health, Dr. Mekdes Daba, underscored the Ethiopian government's strong commitment to increasing domestic pharmaceutical production. She detailed the favorable investment conditions created by the government, including the establishment of the Kilinto Special Industrial Zone, specifically designed to support the growth of the sector. "The pharmaceutical sector in Ethiopia is poised for significant growth, which will undoubtedly create substantial opportunities for Indian companies," Dr. Mekdes affirmed, adding, "India is a reliable and crucial pharmaceutical supplier for Ethiopia, and we are eager to further strengthen this vital partnership."
Reiterating this sentiment, Ambassador Shri Anil Kumar Rai stressed the importance of fostering robust relationships between Indian pharmaceutical manufacturers and the burgeoning Ethiopian industry. He noted India's position as a global leader in pharmaceutical production and its potential to support Ethiopia's ambitions.
Addressing the forum participants, Commissioner of the Ethiopian Investment Commission, Zeleke Temesgen, extended a direct invitation to Indian pharmaceutical manufacturers to invest in Ethiopia. He emphasized the immense benefits Ethiopia could gain from India's extensive experience and expertise in the pharmaceutical sector. Commissioner Zeleke assured attendees that the Ethiopian government would prioritize providing comprehensive support to Indian companies seeking to enter the Ethiopian market.
The India-Ethiopia Pharmaceutical Business Forum signifies a growing partnership between the two nations, with a shared vision of strengthening Ethiopia's healthcare infrastructure and ensuring greater access to quality and affordable medicines through enhanced local production and international collaboration.