FAISALABAD: The Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Jemal Beker Abdula, urged Pakistani banks to open branches in Addis Ababa to facilitate business-related transactions. Addressing the business community at the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FCCI) on Saturday, the Ethiopian envoy stated that his government would provide full support in the process to promote bilateral trade between the two countries.
He acknowledged that establishing banking channels would pose a significant challenge, but if successful, it could be a game-changer for promoting bilateral trade and assisting Pakistani exporters in accessing African markets. Furthermore, he noted that Karachi and Lahore are already linked with Addis Ababa through Ethiopian Airlines, and flights from Sialkot and Faisalabad would commence soon.
The ambassador informed participants that Ethiopia produces 98% green energy, which is also exported to three neighboring countries. He highlighted Ethiopia’s historical significance, mentioning its direct connection to humans of the prehistoric age and the origin of the River Nile from his country. He also praised the FCCI’s role in fostering mutual trade between Ethiopia and Pakistan, emphasizing Ethiopia’s resilience as a non-colonized nation with a 10% growth rate.
Jemal Beker discussed Ethiopia’s industrial capabilities, mentioning its ten industrial parks suitable for various industries. He portrayed Ethiopia as the mother of Africa, stressing its lack of discrimination between Black and White and its reputation for producing quality coffee consumed globally. He described Ethiopia as a gateway to Africa, facilitating access to other African countries through Addis Ababa.
Additionally, the ambassador mentioned Hazrat Bilal Habshi and presented pictures of the historic Mosque of “Najashi” and coffee packs to Dr. Khurram Tariq, Dr. Sajjad Arshad, and Mian Muhammad Idrees. Finally, he recorded his impressions in the FCCI visitor’s book.
Grateful to Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Dr. Khurram Tariq for dedicating a long Enclave in front of @FCCIOfficial for plantation of different indigenous plants under our #Ethio_Pakistan Fraternity Under #GreenLegacy to foster unity & brotherhood b/n 2… pic.twitter.com/UsTTcu7ZQL
— Ambassador Jemal Beker (@JemalBeker1) April 26, 2024
Delighted to see overwhelming response of Faislabad's Business community to #Hijra Trip 2.0 to land of origins & opportunities 🇪🇹 from #Karachi to #AddisAbaba
Lets Go to to explore Extraordinary business & investment opportunities, eco-tourism, diverse culture & heritage from… pic.twitter.com/bUiiatYlMs— Ambassador Jemal Beker (@JemalBeker1) April 27, 2024
