President Xi meets with foreign dignitaries

Ethiopia

While meeting with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Xi said China will deepen its comprehensive strategic partnership with the African country via promoting Belt and Road construction and implementing outcomes of the 2018 Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.

Calling Ethiopia a significant partner in Africa, Xi said China supports Ethiopia in its efforts to safeguard stability, develop its economy and improve people's livelihoods.

China is willing to maintain the good momentum of high-level exchanges with Ethiopia, and the two countries will continue to understand and support each other on issues concerning their respective core interests and major concerns, he said.

While pushing for two-way cooperation, China will help Ethiopia raise its level of industrialization and improve its export capacity, Xi said, adding that the two sides should strengthen communication and coordination on climate change and other regional and international issues.

Calling China its most reliable friend and most cherished partner, Abiy said his country is willing to move its friendly ties with China forward and actively participate in the Belt and Road Initiative.

China always respects African countries and never imposes itself on others, he added.

Premier Li Keqiang also met with the Ethiopian prime minister on Wednesday.