Ukraine and Ethiopia: the first conversation between the heads of state

For the first time in the history of bilateral relations between Ukraine and Ethiopia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made a phone call to the country's Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed Ali. During the conversation, which took place on February 20, several important issues were discussed.

According to the Ukrainian president's press service, Volodymyr Zelenskyy informed the Ethiopian prime minister of Russia's unilateral withdrawal from the Black Sea Grain Initiative. This initiative allowed Ukraine to send more than 300,000 tons of food to Ethiopia. In addition, another 90 thousand tons of grain were sent as part of a separate initiative called "Grain from Ukraine."

President Zelenskyy also emphasized the problem of Russia's illegal blocking of shipping and shelling of Ukraine's port and energy infrastructure. He invited the Ethiopian Prime Minister to visit Ukraine to discuss further steps to strengthen cooperation between the two countries.

During the conversation, the President emphasized that Ukraine remains ready to be a guarantor of global food security and is interested in developing bilateral ties with Ethiopia, particularly in the areas of security and digitalization.

The parties also discussed preparations for the Global Peace Summit. President Zelenskyy suggested creating a special platform for dialogue with African countries. According to him, "the voice of Ethiopia, the African Union, the whole of Africa is very important to us."

This historic conversation opens up new opportunities for cooperation between Ukraine and Ethiopia. Establishing close ties with African countries is important for the development of diplomatic, economic and cultural relations. Representatives of the two countries reaffirmed their commitment to building mutually beneficial cooperation for the benefit of both peoples.

This call also emphasizes Ukraine's active foreign policy activities aimed at strengthening its international position and partnerships with other countries. We hope that diplomatic efforts on the part of both countries will lead to new successes and cooperation in various fields.

In his role as President, Zelenskyy continues to work to maintain international dialogue, promoting stability and cooperation between states. The conversation with the Prime Minister of Ethiopia was another important step towards reaffirming Ukraine as an active participant in the global arena and a partner for countries in Africa and other continents.