Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar hosted Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timotheos in Jerusalem, focusing on enhancing bilateral relations and strategic cooperation against terrorism. Sa’ar plans to reciprocate the visit to Ethiopia, highlighting the importance of collaboration in regional security efforts, especially concerning Al-Shabaab and other extremist groups.
On March 13, Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar welcomed Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timotheos in Jerusalem during the latter’s inaugural visit to Israel. The two ministers engaged in a private meeting followed by an expanded bilateral discussion aimed at enhancing relations between Israel and Ethiopia across various sectors. Minister Sa’ar announced plans for a reciprocal visit to Ethiopia in the near future.
Discussions were centered on strengthening ties with African nations as a strategic goal for Israel by 2025, with Ethiopia being highlighted as integral to this initiative. Sa’ar stated, “Today’s visit is the first visit as part of an initiative that I am leading to strengthen ties with African countries. Ethiopia has a central role in this region.”
The conversation also addressed common security challenges, particularly terrorism. Sa’ar emphasized Ethiopia’s significance in combating Al-Shabaab, a terrorist organization threatening the stability of the Horn of Africa. He pointed out, “Terrorism is a common threat to our people,” underscoring the threats posed to Israel and the broader region by various extremist groups, including Hamas and Hezbollah. He emphasized the need for a unified stance against radical Islamic terrorism, saying, “Terrorism must be eradicated.”
The meeting between Israeli and Ethiopian foreign ministers aimed to strengthen diplomatic and strategic ties, particularly in countering terrorism. Both ministers emphasized the importance of collaboration against mutual threats like Al-Shabaab, with Israel seeking to enhance its relations with African countries as part of a broader initiative for regional stability. The discussions reinforced Ethiopia’s role in addressing security concerns that impact both its region and Israel.
Original Source: www.aninews.in
