Anwar Arrives in Ethiopia for Historic Three-Day Official Visit

ADDIS ABABA: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has arrived in Ethiopia’s capital for a three-day official visit aimed at strengthening Malaysia’s ties and cooperation not only with Ethiopia but also with the African continent as a whole.

Anwar’s special aircraft, carrying senior officials including Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz and a delegation of Malaysian business leaders, landed at Bole International Airport at 4.10pm local time (9.10pm Malaysia time) on Tuesday (Nov 18).

The Prime Minister was warmly welcomed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed Ali, accompanied by children waving both nations’ flags to the tune of a local song and Malaysia’s patriotic anthem, Saya Anak Malaysia.

During the visit, Anwar is scheduled for a packed program in Addis Ababa, including bilateral meetings with Abiy and Ethiopia’s President Taye Atske Selassie. He will also deliver addresses to the Pan-African Youth Union and the Ethiopia Youth Council, underscoring Malaysia’s commitment to youth empowerment and South-South cooperation.

The trip marks a historic milestone, as it is the first-ever official visit by a Malaysian Prime Minister to Ethiopia.

According to official records, bilateral trade between Malaysia and Ethiopia reached RM446.8 million, with Malaysian exports valued at RM358.6 million, reflecting a 24.6% year-on-year increase. Malaysia’s main exports to Ethiopia include electrical and electronic products, palm oil and palm-based agricultural goods, as well as textiles.

Officials say the visit is expected to pave the way for expanded economic partnerships, deeper political cooperation, and stronger engagement between Malaysia and African nations.