Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar hosted Ethiopian counterpart Gedion Timotheos in Jerusalem to discuss enhancing diplomatic relations and cooperation against terrorism. Sa’ar announced plans for a reciprocal visit to Ethiopia, emphasizing the country’s role in regional stability and security issues. Both ministers recognized terrorism as a common threat, necessitating collaborative efforts to combat it.
On March 13, Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar hosted Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timotheos in Jerusalem, marking the latter’s inaugural visit to Israel. The two officials engaged in a private meeting, followed by a broader bilateral discussion aimed at enhancing diplomatic relations across various sectors. Minister Sa’ar announced plans for a reciprocal visit to Ethiopia, emphasizing the importance of the partnership.
The discussions underscored Ethiopia’s strategic importance in the region. Minister Sa’ar articulated that the visit is a component of a larger initiative to foster ties with African nations, aligning with Israel’s strategic objectives for 2025. He stated, “Strengthening relations with these countries is one of our strategic goals for 2025, and Ethiopia has a central role in this region.”
Both ministers addressed shared concerns regarding terrorism, which they identified as a mutual threat. Minister Sa’ar noted Ethiopia’s significant role in combating Al-Shabaab, a terrorist organization posing a danger to the stability of the Horn of Africa. He highlighted the connections between Al-Shabaab and Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen, stating, “Terrorism is a common threat to our people.”
Sa’ar elaborated on the implications of these terrorist threats, emphasizing that the activities of the Houthis, which include missile and drone attacks on Israeli territories, could disrupt international trade and endanger maritime security in the Red Sea. He reaffirmed the need to eradicate radical Islamic terrorism, linking it to various groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and jihadists active across different regions, including Africa.
This meeting illustrates Israel’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic and security ties with African nations such as Ethiopia, which is viewed as a pivotal ally in addressing regional instability and countering terrorism.
The meeting between Israel’s and Ethiopia’s foreign ministers symbolizes a significant step in enhancing bilateral relations, with a focus on cooperation against terrorism and regional stability. Minister Sa’ar’s initiative to strengthen ties with African nations aligns with Israel’s strategic goals for the next few years. By reinforcing their partnership, both countries aim to tackle shared threats and promote security in Africa and the broader region.
Original Source: www.aninews.in
