Prime Minister Lawrence Wong celebrated the visit of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, marking the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Singapore and Ethiopia.
On June 5, 2024, Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong hosted an official dinner in honor of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed at the Istana. This visit, the first by an Ethiopian Head of Government to Singapore since 1968, coincides with the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
During his toast speech, PM Wong highlighted the unique yet significant connections between Singapore and Ethiopia. Despite the geographic and cultural differences, both nations share a deep appreciation for multiculturalism and resilience. He noted Ethiopia’s ancient civilization and its status as the birthplace of humanity, paralleling Singapore’s history as a multicultural immigrant society.
“Ethiopia is an ancient civilization. You are the birthplace of humanity, and so in many ways, we spring from the same root of life. We are both multicultural societies,” Wong said. He emphasized that both countries have the lion as a national symbol, representing courage and strength. Wong pointed out the mutual admiration for Ethiopia’s renowned coffee and athletes, as well as the cultural and economic exchanges that enrich both nations.
PM Wong expressed enthusiasm for deepening bilateral ties, with Singapore-based companies looking to expand operations in Ethiopia’s agriculture, logistics, and aircraft maintenance sectors. He mentioned the potential for Singapore and Ethiopia to serve as gateways to Southeast Asia and Africa, enhancing regional connectivity.
“Singapore-based companies are interested to expand their operations in Ethiopia in the agriculture, logistics and aircraft maintenance sectors. And, as hubs to our respective regions, there is scope for Singapore and Ethiopia to serve as gateways to enhance links between Southeast Asia and Africa,” Wong stated.
The leaders agreed to establish bilateral consultations between their foreign ministries to explore new areas of cooperation, including transport, connectivity, digitalization, and capacity-building. PM Wong reiterated the commitment to elevate the bilateral relationship to greater heights, ensuring continued collaboration and mutual growth.
Concluding his speech, PM Wong proposed a toast to the good health of Prime Minister Abiy and First Lady Zinash Tayachew, the peace and prosperity of Ethiopia and Singapore, and the enduring friendship between the two countries.
Source – PMO
