Diaspora (Commonwealth Union) _ Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to Pakistan, has urged the Pakistani business community to harness Ethiopia’s strategic position as a gateway to Africa’s expanding market of 1.5 billion people. During an address to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) on Monday, Dr. Abdula outlined an ambitious roadmap for economic collaboration between the two countries and invited Pakistani entrepreneurs to participate in the upcoming Invest in Ethiopia 2025 conference and Pakistan’s Single Country Exhibition in Addis Ababa this May.
“We see immense potential for mutual growth. Ethiopia is not just a destination for trade it’s a launchpad into the vast and emerging African continent,” said Dr. Abdula, highlighting opportunities awaiting Pakistani businesses in a rapidly developing region with a combined GDP exceeding $3 trillion.
Unlocking a Continent Through Ethiopia
The ambassador underscored Ethiopia’s unique position in Africa not merely geographically, but economically. Positioned in East Africa, Ethiopia has transformed from a landlocked state to a “land-linked” economy, connected via an efficient railway and port network through Djibouti, offering swift six-hour transit times for imports and exports. With seven operational dry ports and robust infrastructure, Ethiopia presents itself as an ideal logistics and investment hub.
“Ethiopia today is one of the fastest-growing economies globally,” Dr. Abdula noted. “We recorded an impressive GDP growth of 8.2% last year, and we’re projected to grow even further to 8.4% in 2025. Our economy stands at $400 billion, making us East Africa’s largest economy.”
The ambassador also spotlighted Ethiopia’s preferential access to major markets. Products manufactured or processed in Ethiopia benefit from duty-free and quota-free entry into both the European Union and the United States, presenting a strategic incentive for foreign investors, including those from Pakistan.
‘Invest in Ethiopia 2025’: A Global Opportunity
Dr. Abdula extended an open invitation to Pakistani businesses to attend Invest in Ethiopia 2025, taking place on May 12–13 in Addis Ababa. The event will serve as a global platform, bringing together investors, policy influencers, and supply chain stakeholders to foster cross-border partnerships and drive economic synergy.
The symposium will be followed by Pakistan’s Single Country Exhibition, from May 15–17, where a wide array of Pakistani products, from textiles to surgical instruments, will be showcased to Ethiopian buyers and the wider African market. Ethiopian Airlines will offer a 12% discount to event attendees, with affordable accommodations arranged to encourage maximum participation.
“The African market is hungry for innovation, quality, and affordability traits Pakistani products are known for,” the ambassador emphasized.
Tourism and Trade: A Dual Gateway
Beyond trade, Dr. Abdula highlighted Ethiopia’s emergence as a top African tourist destination. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, tourist arrivals surged by 40%, fueled by a stable security situation and Ethiopia’s rich historical and cultural heritage. This, he suggested, opens additional channels for Pakistanis not only in trade but also in tourism, hospitality, and services.
Longstanding Ties, New Momentum
Reflecting on nearly 70 years of diplomatic relations, Dr. Abdula commended Pakistan’s “Look Africa and Engage Africa” policy as a visionary step toward building stronger South-South partnerships.
“We appreciate Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening ties with African nations. Ethiopia, as Africa’s gateway, offers an ideal platform for this engagement,” he stated.
In response, Zubair Motiwala, chairperson of the Businessmen Group (BMG), welcomed the ambassador’s remarks, expressing hope for a new era of economic cooperation. He acknowledged that, despite their historical ties, trade between the two countries remains imbalanced.
“Pakistan currently exports just $4.5 million worth of goods to Ethiopia,” Motiwala noted, “while Ethiopia exports a significantly higher volume, especially in soybeans, to Pakistan. This trade gap must be addressed.”
Motiwala called on Pakistani exporters to explore the untapped African market through platforms like Invest in Ethiopia 2025, leveraging the support extended by the Ethiopian government and logistical conveniences offered by Ethiopian Airlines and infrastructure.
Looking Forward
With shared goals and growing diplomatic goodwill, both nations appear poised to unlock a new chapter in bilateral relations. The upcoming conference and exhibition could mark a turning point not only in strengthening Pakistan’s foothold in Africa but also in elevating Ethiopia’s role as a dynamic trade partner and investment hub for South Asia.
