ADDIS ABABA – Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has embarked on a historic visit to Ethiopia, marking the first time a Malaysian leader has officially travelled to the Horn of Africa nation.
The three-day programme, which began on 18 November, is aimed at deepening diplomatic, economic and cultural ties between Malaysia and Ethiopia, while also strengthening engagement with the African Union headquartered in Addis Ababa.
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, Anwar was warmly received by Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed Ali, who personally drove him to the Ethiopian Science Museum.
The museum, a flagship institution showcasing Ethiopia’s progress in technology and artificial intelligence, reflects the government’s ambition to position the country as a regional hub for innovation.
Anwar and his delegation expressed admiration for Ethiopia’s achievements, noting its rapid growth as one of the fastest-developing nations in the region.
The Malaysian leader also visited Friendship Park, a sprawling recreational space that combines leisure facilities with cultural landmarks, including a zoo and the national history archive.
The park symbolises Ethiopia’s commitment to community development and heritage preservation. Anwar highlighted the warmth of Ethiopian hospitality, describing the visit as a step towards expanding opportunities for collaboration between the two countries.
Beyond cultural engagements, the visit carries significant diplomatic weight. Anwar is scheduled to meet Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie and participate in the Malaysia–Ethiopia High-Level Business Forum.
The forum is expected to explore trade, investment and technology partnerships, with Malaysia keen to tap into Africa’s fast-growing markets.
The Prime Minister will also attend an official welcoming ceremony at the National Palace, where he will plant a “Tree of Friendship” to symbolise enduring bilateral relations.
The visit reciprocates Dr Abiy Ahmed’s trip to Malaysia in October 2024, underscoring the momentum in Malaysia–Ethiopia ties. Both nations are seeking to build a resilient partnership that spans economic cooperation, cultural exchange and shared aspirations in global diplomacy.
Anwar’s African tour, which also includes stops in South Africa and Kenya, reflects Malaysia’s broader strategy to diversify international relations and strengthen its presence across emerging economies.
Observers note that Ethiopia’s focus on science, technology and climate resilience aligns with Malaysia’s own development priorities. The collaboration could pave the way for joint initiatives in education, research and sustainable growth.
For Sarawak and Malaysia more broadly, the engagement offers fresh avenues to expand trade networks and foster people-to-people connections with Africa.
As Anwar continues his engagements in Addis Ababa, the visit is being seen as a milestone in Malaysia’s foreign policy, signalling a renewed chapter in its outreach to the African continent.
