Cuba's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Elio E. Rodriguez Perdomo, emphasized the historical bonds between Cuba and Ethiopia while expressing admiration for Ethiopia's economic strides and outlining plans for enhanced cooperation. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the Deputy Foreign Minister praised Ethiopia's economic progress, noting, "Ethiopia is among the five most important economies in Africa." He expressed Cuba's recognition of Ethiopian authorities' efforts in developing the country and offered Cuba's support, particularly in terms of human resources. Looking to the future, Rodriguez Perdomo outlined several areas for potential cooperation including, water resource management, healthcare, especially in expanding cooperation, particularly in primary care systems, professional training, and joint research and commercial relationships that enables to widen trade partnerships and promoting investments. The Cuban diplomat also mentioned ongoing efforts to facilitate easier exchanges between the two countries, including work on a visa exception agreement for official service and diplomatic passports. During his visit, Rodriguez Perdomo met with Ethiopia's State Minister of Foreign Affairs, describing the dialogue as "successful and useful." The meeting resulted in the signing of a memorandum of understanding on political consultations between the two ministries, which will allow for higher-level exchanges and assessments of bilateral relations. Acknowledging the longstanding relationship between the two nations, Rodriguez Perdomo recalled Cuba's support for Ethiopia's territorial integrity in the past. He stated a recent visit to a monument honoring fallen Cuban internationalists. Rodriguez Perdomo concluded by expressing Cuba's commitment to strengthening ties with Ethiopia across various sectors. During his visit, Rodriguez Perdomo met with Ethiopia's State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mesganu Arga, describing the dialogue as "successful and useful." The meeting culminated in the signin g of a memorandum of understanding on political consultations between the two ministries, facilitating higher-level exchanges and assessments of bilateral relations. Ambassador Mesganu welcomed the Cuban delegation and highlighted the need to implement existing bilateral agreements in areas such as water management, education, air transport, and trade. He also encouraged further cooperation in healthcare and sugar production. Rodriguez Perdomo expressed gratitude for Ethiopia's recent reopening of its embassy in Havana and reaffirmed Cuba's commitment to strengthening ties. Both sides acknowledged the potential for expanded cooperation and the importance of solidarity in addressing global challenges. The Deputy Foreign Minister's visit to Ethiopia also included participation in the first Preparatory Committee Conference for the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development, held in Addis Ababa last week. The signing of the bilateral political consultation agreement marks a concrete step to wards realizing these shared aspirations and fostering a more robust partnership between Cuba and Ethiopia. As Ethiopia continues its economic growth and increases its global influence, particularly through its recent inclusion in BRICS, Cuba sees significant potential in deepening its historical friendship with this key African nation. Source: Ethiopian News Agency