Statement by President Barroso following his meeting with Mr Hailemariam Dessalegn, Prime Minister of Ethiopia

(Event Date: 18/04/2013, (Brussels))--Good morning ladies and gentleman, It is a great pleasure to welcome Prime Minister Hailemariam Dessalegn on his first official visit to Europe.

Statement by President Barroso following his meeting with Mr Hailemariam Dessalegn, Prime Minister of Ethiopia (Getty Images)

I also know this is the first official visit that he pays outside of Africa after his election, and I thank you for that. I think this is a signal of the commitment of Ethiopia to the good relationship with the European Union. Let me also stress on behalf of the European Union our interest to further deepen our political and economic relations, and to tackle wider regional security challenges.

Today we had a very open and friendly discussion on a number of issues related to our bilateral relations. I have congratulated Ethiopia on its continued significant and broad based economic performance as well on its impressive progress in poverty reduction and Millenium Development Goals' achievements.

But Ethiopia still has potential do more and better. I have heard the Prime-Minister's plans for the next stages of development of the country. I had the opportunity to recall that this ambitious agenda also requires the widest possible participation and support throughout society.

Ultimately economic growth can only be sustained if it is achieved in an open society respectful of fundamental rights and also freedom, from freedom of expression to freedom of the press. Read the full statement  from Press point/Brussels » 

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