Interview

Newsletter 14

 Interview

In an interview held recently with the Amharic magazine, 'Diplomaciachin', Foreign Minister Seyoum Mesfin called upon the Ethiopian people to support the Ministry's international endeavors through massive participation in the development agenda of the country. He also urged the public to contribute to the democratization process furthering national consensus in matters pertaining to the country's effort to come out as a winner in the fight against poverty so that the country could have its voice heard better at international diplomatic fora.   

The following is a short excerpt of the interview.  

Diplomaciachin:- How would you explain Ethiopia's  bilateral and multilateral relationships?

 Foreign Minister Seyoum:- I believe Ethiopia's influence and role  in its relationship with others largely depends on its economic capability and strength. Though Ethiopia is viewed by many African countries as a symbol of freedom, and this contributes to its status, present day world interaction requires that a given country have strong economy. Ethiopia's economy is growing. The harder we work, the better will be the result achieved and thus our status will further be bolstered. 

Diplomaciachin:- Where does Ethiopia stand in its relations with its  neighbors?

 Foreign Minister Seyoum:-  As we all know our ties with our neighbors, particularly Djibouti, the Sudan and Kenya is improving. Especially, we are cooperating with the Sudan and Djibouti in multifaceted sectors. 

      H.E. Seyoum Mesfin

The Ethio-Sudan border demarcation is in progress.  Both countries are also benefiting from trade and investment among others. Likewise, both Ethiopia and Djibouti are working in unison to enhance existing strong ties. Ethiopia considers Djibouti as its natural gate-way for Ethiopian import-export goods.  Furthermore, the political and security cooperation and people- to-people relations are steadly growing.

With regard to Somalia, Ethiopia attempts to play constructive role for sustainable peace and stability in that country through an all inclusive political dialogue.

 However, the Ethio-Eritrean relation is not faring well. Even if the strategic ties of the two people would never change, the leadership in Asmara has been a hindrance for peace with its neighbors.

Unless the regime in Asmara changes its militaristic behavior, cordial relation is unthinkable. Despite this, Ethiopia believes it should be left to the discretion of Eritreans to decide what sort of government they deserve. Nevertheless, Ethiopia would try to mend and further bolster the ties between the peoples of the two nations.

Diplomaciachin:-  How about its relations with the Middle East and Asian  countries?

Foreign Minister Seyoum:-  It is important that we expand the scope of our relations. We want to enhance our relationship with every region based on common interest. Our relationship with the Middle East has by far changed positively compared with the previous regime that used to have a hostile and suspicious approach in its relations with the countries in the region that emanated from its siege mentality.

Ties we have with some of the Asian countries is also quite strong. We have, specially, boosted cooperation with Japan, China and India. We are aware of the need to establish close contact with Far East countries and we give it proper attention.

Diplomaciachin:-  What about ties with Europe and America? 

Foreign Minister Seyoum:-  We have a long-standing relationship with Europe and North America and EU is our main development partner. We need to strengthen this cooperation and get more out of it.