President Taye: First-ever Ethiopia-Malaysia business forum marks new era of economic collaboration

Addis Ababa, November 19, 2025 (FMC) — President Taye Atske Selassie described today’s first-ever Ethiopia-Malaysia High-Level Business Forum as marking a new era of economic collaboration, underlining the historic significance of the event in strengthening trade, investment, and mutual prosperity between the two countries. The forum was attended by Malaysia’s Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Speaking at the event, President Taye highlighted that although Ethiopia and Malaysia established diplomatic relations in 1965, the rapidly changing geo-economic and geopolitical landscape demands deeper and more strategic cooperation.

“We must strengthen our diplomatic relations through trade, investment, agriculture, livestock, mining, and other critical development sectors,” he said, urging Malaysian companies to actively explore Ethiopia’s growing opportunities.

The President also emphasized Ethiopia’s rapid progress in digitalization, noting that initiatives to modernize the economy are driving financial inclusion and transforming key sectors at an unprecedented pace.

He described the forum as a historic milestone that not only reaffirmed the long-standing friendship between Ethiopia and Malaysia but also laid the groundwork for a future defined by deeper economic collaboration, mutual understanding, and shared prosperity.

“Malaysian companies have a favorable environment to take full advantage of Ethiopia’s trade and investment opportunities,” President Taye added, highlighting the potential for mutually beneficial development that would create lasting value for both nations.

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim praised Ethiopia’s reform and development trajectory, acknowledging the strong diplomatic relationship and shared perspectives on global affairs.

He reflected on Ethiopia’s history, recalling the story of the Christian emperor offering sanctuary to Muslims, emphasizing the importance of mutual understanding and cooperation in today’s world.

“It would be a loss if we do not actively foster the relationship between our countries,” the Prime Minister said, stressing that deeper economic collaboration represents a strategic opportunity for both nations and the wider region.

He also identified digital transformation, energy transition, data, and artificial intelligence as key areas to address contemporary economic challenges.

Expressing gratitude to the Malaysian business delegation for attending the forum, he noted, “We have a serious plan. We must do whatever is necessary to facilitate this relationship,” highlighting the critical role of economic diplomacy in strengthening bilateral ties.