Ethiopia advances Turkey- Africa Strategic Partnership: Ambassador

Addis Ababa, April 5, 2011 (Addis Ababa, ENA) -  Turkish ambassador to Ethiopia, Kenan Ipek said Ethiopia is playing key role in promoting Turkey- Africa strategic partnership.
 
In an exclusive interview with ENA, Ambassador Ipek said Ethiopia has always been one of the driving forces in the implementation of Turkey’s development policies with regards to Africa

The Ambassador said the bilateral relations with Ethiopia is complementing to Turkey-Africa cooperation. Prime Minister Meles Zenawi was a co-chair at the first Turkey-Africa Summit held in 2008 in Istanbul.

The ambassador said consultations have always been held between the two governments towards ensuring peace and stability in Africa.

As Ethiopia is playing important role in the region and international forum in advancing the issues of Africa, Turkey considers and appreciates the Ethiopian government’s effort, he said.

Though the relations between Turkey and Africa dates back to 1963 the new partnership has begun in 2005, he said.

Since then Turkey determined to increase the number of embassies in Africa and further deepen the bilateral cooperation with individual countries, he said.

Turkey and Africa have enormous trade and investment potential that has yet to be exploited, he said and adding, Turkey-Africa strategic cooperation would help forge vibrant cooperation.

As part of the follow up of the first summit ,mechanisms and deliberations have been held, he said and adding, high level officers meeting was held in Istanbul in Dec 2010 with the presence of representatives from African countries, AU and regional community blocs.

The ministerial and the second Turkey-Africa Summit would be held in 2011 and 2013 respectively.