Malaysian Official Visit: Abiy Ahmed Ali Arrives in Kuala Lumpur
Prime Minister of Ethiopia Begins Two-Day Official Visit
Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali arrived in Malaysia today to begin a two-day official visit, marking his first visit to the country. Abiy’s visit to Malaysia aims to strengthen relations between the two nations.
Welcome Ceremony
The aircraft carrying Abiy, First Lady Zinash Tayachew Bere, and his delegation landed at Kompleks Bunga Raya, Kuala Lumpur International Airport at 8:30 a.m. Deputy Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir, and Chief of Protocol from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Datuk Yubazlan Yusof, were among those present to welcome him. Upon his arrival, Abiy inspected a guard of honour formed by 28 officers and personnel from the First Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (Ceremonial), led by Capt Nur Ahmad Zaim Zahari.
Bilateral Meeting and Discussion
In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Wisma Putra, announced that Abiy will be welcomed by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in an official ceremony, followed by a bilateral meeting. The leaders’ discussions will focus on strengthening bilateral relations, particularly in the areas of trade and investment, agriculture and commodities, the halal industry, sustainable development, health, tourism, and education. They are also expected to address regional and international issues of mutual concern. A joint press conference will be held after the meeting.
Economic Ties
Ethiopia was Malaysia’s 26th largest trading partner in the African continent in 2023, with the trade balance in Malaysia’s favour. Trade between Malaysia and Ethiopia was recorded at RM446.8 million, with Malaysia’s exports to Ethiopia amounting to RM358.6 million, an increase of 24.6 percent compared to the previous year. Malaysia’s exports to Ethiopia include electrical and electronic products; palm oil and palm oil-based agricultural products; chemicals and chemical-based products; as well as textiles, clothing, and footwear.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Abiy’s visit to Malaysia marks a significant milestone in strengthening ties between the two nations. The two leaders’ discussions will focus on areas such as trade and investment, agriculture, and sustainable development, among others. This visit is expected to benefit both countries and further strengthen their economic and social ties.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of Prime Minister Abiy’s visit to Malaysia?
A: The purpose of the visit is to strengthen relations between the two nations, particularly in areas such as trade and investment, agriculture, and sustainable development.
Q: Who will meet with Prime Minister Abiy during his visit?
A: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim will welcome Prime Minister Abiy in an official ceremony and then hold a bilateral meeting with him.
Q: What are the main areas of discussion during the bilateral meeting?
A: The leaders will discuss trade and investment, agriculture and commodities, the halal industry, sustainable development, health, tourism, and education, as well as regional and international issues of mutual concern.