On March 13, 2023, Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar held talks with Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timotheos in Jerusalem. Their meeting aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and address security issues such as terrorism, with future cooperation planned. Minister Sa’ar emphasized the strategic importance of Ethiopia in their partnership against threats like Al-Shabaab.
On March 13, 2023, Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar welcomed his Ethiopian counterpart Gedion Timotheos to Jerusalem for Timotheos’s inaugural visit to Israel. The two leaders engaged in a private discussion followed by an extended bilateral meeting. A primary focus of their discussions was the enhancement of relations across various sectors. Minister Sa’ar indicated plans for a forthcoming reciprocal visit to Ethiopia.
Following their meeting, both ministers addressed the media. Minister Sa’ar emphasized, “Today’s visit is the first visit as part of an initiative that I am leading to strengthen ties with African countries. Strengthening relations with these countries is one of our strategic goals for 2025, and Ethiopia has a central role in this region.” He further remarked on the shared threat of terrorism.
Minister Sa’ar stressed the importance of Ethiopia’s role in combating the terrorist group Al-Shabaab, stating that it poses a significant danger to the stability of the Horn of Africa. He highlighted the connections between Al-Shabaab and the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen, which have compromised security and stability in the region. He expressed concern over threats posed to Israeli communities and global trade routes, reinforcing the necessity to address radical Islamist terrorism in various regions, including Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, jihadists in Syria, and Al-Shabaab in Africa.
Terrorism must be eradicated for regional and global stability.
The meeting between Israeli and Ethiopian Foreign Ministers underscored the commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and addressing shared security concerns. With enhanced cooperation against terrorism being a focal point, both nations recognize the significance of their partnership in ensuring stability in the Horn of Africa and beyond. Minister Sa’ar’s upcoming visit to Ethiopia reaffirms this strategic alliance aimed at promoting peace and cooperation.
Original Source: www.aninews.in
