Core Principles of Ethiopia’s foreign Policy: Ethiopia-Kuwait relations
Formal diplomatic relations only started between Ethiopia and Kuwait in 1967, but the people of both nations have known each other for many years. Historical and cultural relations between the two served as a springboard for relations to improve at various times. Indeed, both countries share the same traditional and cultural values that still prevail in both Ethiopia and Kuwait. Respective embassies, in fact, were only opened in 1997, underlining the fact that the blossoming of relations only came after the downfall of the military regime of the Derg, and after the EPRDF's coming to power. A series of high level visits, by Prime Minister Meles, Foreign Minister Seyoum and other officials from Ethiopia, and by Sheikh Nasser, Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait, by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Sheikh Mohamed, and others from Kuwait, have taken place at various times. Among other things, the exchange of visits has resulted in the signing of a number of different agreements and the establishment of a Joint Ministerial Commission to provide for a follow-up mechanism, for implementation of agreements.
Economic relations between the two sisterly countries have been gaining momentum recently. Ethiopia and Kuwait have, of course, been trading with each other long before any trade agreements were signed. Before 1997 the balance of trade was in favour of Ethiopia. These days, however, the volume of trade amounting to over 41 million birr is in favour of Kuwait. The amount, however, is not up to the expectations of either country. There are ample opportunities for very considerable improvement in business links between Ethiopia and Kuwait, provided we work together on the principles of comparative advantage for each others’ benefit. The products of both countries are not competitive but rather supplement each other; and our proximity should be another factor encouraging improved trade relations.
The Kuwaiti Government has put in place mechanisms to encourage Kuwait nationals to invest in Ethiopia. It is another sign of Kuwait's goodwill and cooperation with the people and Government of Ethiopia. Kuwaiti investors have now started to look towards Ethiopia and can be expected to increase the size and volume of projects in Ethiopia, but we have to admit that both countries could do more to attract tourists from Kuwait to Ethiopia.
Another manifestation of the State of Kuwait's assistance to Ethiopia's development efforts has been its willingness to provide jet fuel to Ethiopia on a loan basis. Similarly, Kuwait’s contribution to the development efforts of Ethiopia, in infrastructural development, electrification of rural areas and other projects, is a clear sign of Kuwait's benevolence towards the people and Government of Ethiopia. It is also an assurance of the acceptance of the values of a partnership based on mutual benefit and respect. Today, there are thousands of Ethiopians who live and work in Kuwait, and Kuwait has played an exemplary role in signing a Labour Agreement to protect the rights of Ethiopians living and working in Kuwait. This is certainly another manifestation of sincere friendship based on equality and brotherhood. Ethiopia values this very highly. It is, indeed, committed to bolstering such attitudes both with Kuwait and with others in the region and elsewhere.