Israel’s Foreign Minister, Gideon Sa’ar, hosted Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timotheos in Jerusalem to discuss enhancing bilateral relations. Their discussions highlighted the importance of cooperation against terrorism and Sa’ar’s plans for a reciprocal visit to Ethiopia as part of a broader initiative to strengthen ties with African countries.
On March 13, Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar welcomed Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timotheos to Jerusalem for his first visit to the country. Their discussions included the enhancement of bilateral relations across various sectors, with Minister Sa’ar announcing plans for a reciprocal visit to Ethiopia shortly thereafter.
During a press briefing following their meeting, Foreign Minister Sa’ar emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with African nations as a strategic objective for 2025, highlighting Ethiopia’s significant role in this initiative. He stated, “Today’s visit is the first visit as part of an initiative that I am leading to strengthen ties with African countries.”
Sa’ar addressed the issue of terrorism as a shared concern, particularly noting Ethiopia’s involvement in combating Al-Shabaab, which poses threats to the Horn of Africa. He stated that Al-Shabaab collaborates with the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen, undermining regional stability by launching missiles against Israeli targets and disrupting international trade. Sa’ar concluded that the eradication of terrorism remains imperative for global security, referencing threats from various militant groups in the region, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and jihadists in Syria.
The meeting between Israel’s Foreign Minister and Ethiopia’s counterpart marks a significant step towards enhancing bilateral relations, with particular focus on regional security and cooperation in combating terrorism. Minister Sa’ar’s commitment to visit Ethiopia reflects Israel’s strategic interest in strengthening ties with African nations as part of its broader foreign policy goals.
Original Source: www.aninews.in