U.S. attaches great attention to Ethiopia’s dev’t, peace: Amb. Yamamoto

Addis Ababa, April 27, 2018 (FBC) –Ethiopia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr Workneh Gebeyehu, today met with the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, Ambassador Donald Yamamoto.

During the meeting, the two sides agreed to cooperate on bilateral, regional and continental issues of mutual interest.

Ambassador Yamamoto said “Ethiopia is a main and an important partner of the United States.”

The United States attaches great attention to its all-rounded relations with Ethiopia, he said, adding his country is keen to work together with the horn of African country particularly in the areas of trade and investment.

The United States wants to support Ethiopia’s industrialization development and encourage the export of value-added agricultural products to the U.S markets, the Ambassador added.

Dr Workneh for his part said Ethiopia and the United States have strong relations, adding, Yamamoto’s visit shows the attention given by the US for its diplomatic relation with Ethiopia.

The visit by the Deputy Assistant Secretary comes at a time when peace and stability have been restored in the country, he said, adding energy and aviation could be potential areas of cooperation between the nations.

Dr Workneh further said the government wants Diaspora Ethiopians to take active part in the development activities of their home country.

The Ethiopian Foreign Minister also briefed Ambassador Yamamoto on the reforms underway in Ethiopia.

As Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed indicated during his swearing-in ceremony, Ethiopia still wants to resolve its disagreement with Eritrea peacefully, he said.