Pakistani President Hails Ethiopian Airlines Link, Expresses Interest in Strengthening Ties

Addis Ababa, August 20, 2025 (FMC) — Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari has praised the launch of Ethiopian Airlines’ direct flights to Pakistan, describing it as a key milestone that will invigorate trade, tourism, and people-to-people ties between the two countries.

The remarks came during a meeting with Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Jemal Baker, in Islamabad, where the two sides discussed opportunities to further strengthen bilateral relations.

Ambassador Jemal conveyed the condolences of the Ethiopian government and people over the recent floods in Pakistan, reaffirming Ethiopia’s solidarity with the nation. He also briefed President Zardari on Ethiopia’s comprehensive reforms in the political, economic, environmental, and legal spheres.

Highlighting the country’s domestic economic reform agenda, the Ambassador noted that Ethiopia has created a favorable environment for foreign direct investment, with significant potential in tourism, agriculture, trade, and the banking sector. He also underscored the international recognition of Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative, describing it as a milestone in combating soil erosion, advancing reforestation, and enhancing food security.

President Zardari welcomed Ethiopia’s progress and expressed his desire to visit Addis Ababa soon to witness the country’s transformation firsthand and to further consolidate the expanding partnership, according to information shared with FMC by the Ethiopian Embassy in Islamabad.