Iran’s Parliament Speaker, Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, visited Ethiopia to strengthen ties. He met with Ethiopian counterparts to discuss improving economic and political collaboration, emphasizing the need for an Ethiopian embassy in Tehran. Qalibaf acknowledged Ethiopia’s key role in East Africa and highlighted Iran’s religious diversity during his discussions. This visit aims to fortify the long-standing relationship between the two nations.
Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf, the Speaker of Iran’s Parliament, began a two-day visit to Ethiopia on Thursday, following an invitation from his Ethiopian counterpart. In Addis Ababa, he engaged with Ethiopian Parliament Speaker Tagesse Chafo to explore methods for enhancing economic, political, and parliamentary cooperation, particularly aiming to eliminate obstacles to private sector participation.
During the discussions, Qalibaf emphasized the strategic necessity of establishing an Ethiopian embassy in Tehran as a pivotal move to strengthen economic and political relations. Moreover, he referenced the recent release of four Ethiopian sailors from Iranian custody, suggesting that an embassy could facilitate similar diplomatic efforts in the future.
In his remarks, Qalibaf recognized Ethiopia’s significant influence in East Africa, particularly regarding regional security and stability. The relationship between Iran and Ethiopia has been cooperative since the 1970s, with both countries keenly interested in expanding their economic, political, and cultural connections.
Ethiopia, often referred to as the “Gateway to Africa,” is geopolitically essential due to its location in the Horn of Africa and its status as a rapidly developing economy and regional stabilizer. Qalibaf further discussed religious diversity in Iran during a meeting with Sheikh Ibrahim Tufa, the Head of the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council.
Sheikh Tufa acknowledged Iran’s active support for oppressed Muslims globally, viewing Iran as a guiding light for the Muslim community. He commended the representation of various religious groups within Iran’s parliament, including Shia, Sunni, Christian, Jewish, and Zoroastrian members.
Iran and Ethiopia have maintained a cooperative relationship since the 1970s, focusing on trade, political alliances, and cultural exchanges. This partnership is particularly crucial given Ethiopia’s geopolitical significance in the Horn of Africa. As a rapidly growing economy and stabilizing force in the region, Ethiopia plays a vital role in East African politics and security. Strengthening ties with Iran could enhance both nations’ influence and collaboration on shared international issues.
In summary, Qalibaf’s visit to Ethiopia underscores a commitment to deepening bilateral ties between Iran and Ethiopia across various sectors. The establishment of an Ethiopian embassy in Tehran is viewed as a strategic necessity to build stronger economic and political connections. Both nations recognize each other’s regional roles and potential for greater collaboration moving forward.
Original Source: www.tehrantimes.com
