Second India-Ethiopia Joint Commission to enhance Defence, culture, trade

New Delhi: The Second Joint Commission Meeting (JCM) between the Republic of India and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia was held today in New Delhi. The Indian delegation was led by Sushma Swaraj, External Affairs Minister and the Ethiopian delegation was led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Workneh Gebeyehu.

An MEA release stated, 'During the JCM, both sides discussed various bilateral, regional and multilateral issues. The discussions focused on building closer cooperation in areas of defence cooperation, Lines of Credit, human resource development, capacity building, trade and investment, cultural exchanges and enhancing people to people contact. India reiterated its commitments towards development partnership with Ethiopia.

'The two sides also exchanged views on issues of mutual interest at regional and multilateral levels including cooperation at the United Nations and other international organizations.

'A Memorandum of Understanding between the Foreign Service Institute of India and the Foreign Service Training Institute of Ethiopia was signed between the two countries after the conclusion of JCM. JCM was preceded by a meeting of Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM) a day earlier.

'Sources say both sides expressed satisfaction on enhanced engagement at all levels between the two countries. Both sides underlined that India-Ethiopia partnership is underpinned by our shared values and strong economic and commercial partnership. The JCM held today has an added significance as we embark on the celebration of 70 years of diplomatic relationship with Ethiopia.