Addis Ababa, July 17, 2025 (FMC) – A national Ethiopian art troupe will travel to China this coming Sunday, marking a major cultural diplomacy initiative to showcase the country’s diverse heritage and creative identity on the international stage.
The announcement was made in a joint press briefing by Tesfahun Gobezay, State Minister of Government Communication Services; Nebiyou Baye, State Minister of Culture and Sports; and acclaimed artist Kamuzu Kassa.
State Minister Tesfahun Gobezay emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to elevate the role of the arts in nation-building. He noted that Ethiopia’s image and influence abroad should be supported through cultural expression, adding that this initiative reflects the theme “Ethiopian Arts – Heralding Ethiopia’s Renaissance.” He said the troupe’s first stop will be in China, where performances will take place in Beijing and Nanjing.
The program, supported by strong government-to-government ties between Ethiopia and China, is expected to bolster cultural exchange, strengthen diplomatic relations, and contribute to tourism and investment promotion.
For his part, State Minister Nebiyou Baye described the event as a historic undertaking — the first of its kind in nearly 40 years. He noted that more than 70 artists representing over 50 nationalities will participate, offering a rich mosaic of music, dance, and artistic expression.
The cultural showcase will also include exhibitions of Ethiopian fashion, traditional cuisine, and coffee ceremonies — giving audiences a deeper insight into Ethiopia’s living traditions.
Artist Kamuzu Kassa stated that a four-month preparation process preceded the launch of the program. He revealed that the performances will include original works that reflect Ethiopia’s vibrant and often underrepresented cultural expressions, such as tuba music and regional folk arts.
Officials further noted that similar cultural outreach efforts will follow in other countries, as Ethiopia expands its use of the arts as a strategic tool for global engagement and soft power diplomacy.