The Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (FDRE) in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan hosted a grand reception in Islamabad, highlighting Ethiopia Pakistan relations. Specifically, the event celebrated the Ethiopian New Year (Enkutatash) 2018, the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), and Unity Day.
A large presence from Pakistan, close to 500 people,including higher officials, attended the ceremony, reflecting the strengthening of Ethiopia Pakistan relations. This, in turn, reflected the growing bilateral relations between the two countries.
H.E. Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, Chairman of the Senate, was the chief guest. Meanwhile, H.E. Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Federal Minister for Defence and Aviation, attended as the guest of honor.
Among the distinguished guests were H.E. Musadik Masood Malik, Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination; H.E. Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Federal Minister for IT & Telecommunication; H.E. Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, Federal Minister for Culture and Heritage; H.E. Hamid Asghar Khan, Additional Secretary (Africa), Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Pakistan; and H.E. Murtaza Solangi, Spokesperson for President.
Additionally, ambassadors, diplomatic corps members, government officials, Parliamentarians, media, think tank heads, and members of the Ethiopian diaspora were present.
In his address, H.E. Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, Ethiopia’s Special Envoy and Ambassador to Pakistan, extended New Year greetings. Furthermore, he explained Ethiopia’s unique calendar system, which has 13 months.
“By attending today’s gathering, all of us in this room got seven years younger… because Ethiopia is celebrating the start of 2018 today,” he added.
The Ambassador emphasized that Enkutatash symbolizes hope and optimism.
He spoke about Ethiopia’s rich heritage as the origin of humankind and coffee. In addition, he highlighted its history of religious harmony, diverse culture, and tourism.
Highlighting its influence beyond culture, he noted Ethiopia’s role in pan-Africanism and regional integration. Moreover, he detailed the Medemer philosophy of Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed, which stresses synergizing all resources.
“This philosophy is the driving force behind Ethiopia’s political, economic, social, and legal reforms since 2018. Consequently, these reforms contributed to economic growth,” he said. He described the GERD inauguration as a powerful manifestation of Medemer.
The GERD is entirely financed by Ethiopians, he said.
He added that the dam would not significantly harm any downstream countries. At the same time, Ethiopia’s dedication to equitable and reasonable water use for regional energy connectivity was also underscored.
Reaffirming friendly relations between Ethiopia and Pakistan, he noted growing cooperation in trade, investment, education, cultural exchange, climate change, peace, and security.
The Honorable Chairman of the Senate said that Pakistan and Ethiopia share centuries-old trade and cultural linkages. Importantly, these links are being reinvigorated under Pakistan’s Look Africa Policy.
He stated that both countries share the same objectives: ensuring peace, prosperity, and dignity for every citizen. Looking ahead, he expressed hope for closer partnerships in renewable energy, agricultural innovation, and parliamentary exchanges.
He paid tribute to Ethiopia’s remarkable achievements. In addition, he stressed that both countries can pave the way for prosperity by wisely utilizing their shared resources.
“The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is not merely a structure of concrete and steel — it is a symbol of Ethiopia’s determination, collective vision, and progress,” he said while felicitating Ethiopia on the GERD inauguration.
