- The presence of Pakistan’s top leadership at the event — a first for any African reception in Islamabad — underscores the remarkable success of Ambassador Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula’s diplomacy.
ISLAMABAD – The Embassy of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia (FDRE) in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan hosted a grand reception in Islamabad to celebrate three significant occasions: the Ethiopian New Year (Enkutatash) 2018, the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), and Unity Day.
The event drew an impressive gathering of nearly 500 attendees, reflecting the growing depth of bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Pakistan. High-ranking officials, members of the diplomatic corps, parliamentarians, members of think tanks, the media, and representatives of the Ethiopian diaspora graced the occasion.
The Honorable Chairman of the Senate, H.E. Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, served as the chief guest, while H.E. Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Federal Minister for Defence and Aviation, attended as guest of honor. Other distinguished guests included:
- H.E. Dr. Musadik Masood Malik, Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination
- H.E. Ms. Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Federal Minister for IT and Telecommunication
- H.E. Aurangzeb Khan Khichi, Federal Minister for Culture and Heritage
- H.E. Hamid Asghar Khan, Additional Secretary (Africa), Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- H.E. Murtaza Solangi, Spokesperson to the President of Pakistan
In his keynote address, H.E. Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, Ethiopia’s Special Envoy and Ambassador to Pakistan, extended warm New Year greetings to the attendees, offering insights into Ethiopia’s unique calendar, which consists of 13 months.
“By attending today’s gathering, all of us in this room have become seven years younger,” he said humorously, noting that Ethiopia was now celebrating the start of the year 2018.
Ambassador Dr. Jemal highlighted the cultural and historical significance of Enkutatash, describing it as a symbol of hope and renewal. He emphasized Ethiopia’s deep historical roots as the cradle of humankind and the birthplace of coffee, praising its longstanding traditions of religious harmony, cultural diversity, and tourism potential.
He further elaborated on Ethiopia’s legacy in Pan-Africanism and regional integration, citing the country’s continued role in promoting continental unity and cooperation. Central to his address was the “Medemer” philosophy of Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Abiy Ahmed, which promotes synergy and inclusive development.
“This philosophy is the driving force behind Ethiopia’s political, economic, and legal reforms since 2018,” said the Ambassador. He underscored that the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is a monumental expression of Medemer and national unity, financed entirely by the Ethiopian people.
He assured attendees that the GERD project would not adversely affect downstream countries and reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to the equitable and reasonable utilization of shared water resources. The dam, he noted, would contribute to regional energy integration and connectivity.
The Ambassador also emphasized the growing multifaceted cooperation between Ethiopia and Pakistan, especially in the areas of trade, investment, education, cultural exchange, climate action, peace, and security.
In his remarks, Senate Chairman H.E. Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani praised the longstanding cultural and trade ties between Pakistan and Ethiopia, which date back centuries. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening these relations under its “Look Africa” policy.
“Pakistan and Ethiopia share common goals — peace, prosperity, and dignity for all citizens,” he stated. He expressed optimism about future collaboration in areas such as renewable energy, agricultural innovation, and parliamentary diplomacy.
Hailing the inauguration of the GERD as a milestone achievement, Chairman Gilani said, “The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is not merely a structure of concrete and steel — it is a symbol of Ethiopia’s determination, collective vision, and progress.”
The evening concluded with a cultural showcase, including Ethiopian music and cuisine, offering guests a glimpse into the rich and diverse heritage of Ethiopia.
BY: The Times Union
