Addis Ababa, July 25, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s Ambassador to China, Tefera Derbew, has reaffirmed the long-standing and strategic partnership between Ethiopia and China, highlighting the deepening of ties through cultural and people-to-people diplomacy.
Speaking to the media during the “Kin Ethiopia” cultural showcase in Beijing, Ambassador Tefera described the relationship as “time-honored and enduring,” rooted in mutual respect and cooperation across political, economic, social, and cultural sectors.
“The arrival of our largest cultural troupe from Ethiopia, with 75 delegates, clearly demonstrates the high importance Ethiopia attaches to its relationship with China—particularly in cultural and people-to-people exchanges,” Ambassador Tefera said. “The foundation of bilateral relations between countries is people-to-people relations. This event will certainly further enhance the bond between our two peoples.”
The Ambassador’s remarks came as Ethiopia’s cultural delegation staged its first performance of the “Kin Ethiopia” series in Beijing, drawing attention from Chinese media and audiences. The event forms part of a broader effort to elevate Ethiopia’s global cultural presence while reinforcing diplomatic ties with key partners.
The “Kin Ethiopia” tour is organized by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Culture and Sports as part of the government’s renewed cultural diplomacy agenda. The 75-member delegation—Ethiopia’s largest to China in recent years—includes traditional musicians, dancers, fashion models, circus artists, coffee ceremony performers, and handicraft exhibitors.
Minister of Culture and Sports Shewit Shanka, who is leading the delegation, said the tour reflects Ethiopia’s commitment to reviving its cultural identity while promoting international solidarity through art. “Art and culture are powerful tools that deepen the historic ties between Ethiopia and China,” she noted.
The troupe’s journey follows months of preparation under the coordination of Shakura Production, with extensive training aimed at ensuring the authenticity and richness of the performances.
This latest cultural exchange comes in the context of Ethiopia and China’s broader strategic partnership, which spans infrastructure development, trade, investment, and diplomatic coordination. The two countries marked the 55th anniversary of diplomatic ties earlier this year, with high-level officials reaffirming their commitment to strengthening cooperation under multilateral frameworks such as the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and the Belt and Road Initiative.
The “Kin Ethiopia” tour is expected to continue in other Chinese cities, with future stops in additional BRICS+ partner countries.