Addis ababa: Ethiopia and China have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in digital and emerging technologies, aiming to accelerate Ethiopia’s digital economy transformation and create jobs. The meeting between ministers from both countries focused on fostering dialogue in digital technology, reflecting their long-standing diplomatic ties.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the MoU signing was attended by Ethiopia’s Innovation and Technology Minister Belete Mola, who highlighted the upgraded bilateral relationship into a strategic partnership in 2023. This partnership has propelled cooperation across key sectors. The Minister emphasized Ethiopia’s commitment to its ‘Digital Ethiopia 2025′ vision, which includes expansion in artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, big data cloud services, satellite communications, fiber-optic infrastructure, and 5G networks to enhance public digital service delivery and create employment opportunities for youth.
China’s Industry and Inform
ation Technology Minister Li Lecheng expressed China’s extensive experience in digital infrastructure development and its desire to deepen ICT cooperation with Africa. He affirmed China’s commitment to sharing expertise to strengthen Ethiopia’s capacity and ensure mutually beneficial outcomes from the partnership.
Both ministers acknowledged the growing importance of digital technology in improving citizens’ quality of life and advancing national development agendas. They agreed that exchanging knowledge and expertise will make the strategic partnership more productive and impactful.
The MoU represents a milestone in Ethiopia-China diplomatic and technological collaboration that dates back to 1970. It is expected to accelerate Ethiopia’s digital transformation and contribute to sustainable socioeconomic development, benefiting both countries and their people. The agreement also aims to boost joint initiatives in telecommunications foundation expansion, emerging technology industries, and cooperative project
s that enhance the digital economy landscape in Ethiopia and the broader African region.