Lahore, February 26, 2025 – Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, Special Envoy and Ambassador Extraordinary of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to Pakistan, met with Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, Governor of Punjab, at Governor House Lahore on Wednesday.
During the meeting, both sides discussed matters of mutual interest and explored avenues for strengthening bilateral, regional, and multilateral cooperation between Ethiopia and Pakistan.
Dr. Jemal highlighted significant progress in bilateral and multilateral collaborations in key sectors, including business, trade, investment, health, education, science and technology, and climate change. He emphasized Ethiopia’s role as a gateway to Africa, aligning with Pakistan’s “Look Africa and Engage Africa” policy, which aims to expand Pakistan’s presence on the African continent.
The Ambassador also noted the recent launch of Ethiopian Airlines in Karachi and announced that operations would soon begin in Lahore. This expansion, he said, would further enhance business-to-business and people-to-people ties between the two nations.
Dr. Jemal reiterated his commitment to connecting Pakistan not just with Ethiopia but with the broader African region, emphasizing the strategic role of Ethiopian Airlines in fostering economic and diplomatic relations.
During the meeting, the Ambassador extended an invitation to the Governor to attend the Single Country Exhibition of Pakistan, scheduled to be hosted by Ethiopia in May this year.
Governor Saleem Haider Khan appreciated the Ambassador’s vision and efforts in promoting bilateral relations and assured full support for initiatives aimed at further strengthening ties. He expressed optimism about the future of Pakistan-Ethiopia relations, which are rooted in longstanding brotherly ties.
The Governor also lauded Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative, launched by Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed, and expressed interest in collaborating on climate-related initiatives to address environmental challenges.