By HAN News Desk
ADDIS ABABA – Malaysia and Ethiopia have expanded their diplomatic and economic cooperation after signing four memoranda of understanding (MoUs) covering air services, health, tourism, and a new city-to-city partnership between Kuala Lumpur and Addis Ababa.
The agreements were signed during a bilateral meeting between Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who both described the pacts as a significant step forward in strengthening ties between the two countries.
Prime Minister Anwar said the air services agreement will improve flight connectivity between Southeast Asia and the Horn of Africa, potentially increasing trade, business travel, and tourism flows. He emphasized that enhanced connectivity is “crucial for economic expansion” and will support Malaysia’s broader goal of becoming a regional aviation hub.
On health cooperation, Anwar noted that the MoU will enable the exchange of medical expertise, training programs for healthcare professionals, and collaboration in public health management. This is expected to benefit both countries by improving healthcare systems, strengthening medical capacities, and expanding research partnerships.
The tourism agreement aims to promote joint marketing campaigns, cultural exchanges, and investment in the tourism sector. Officials say the partnership will help both countries access new tourism markets while showcasing cultural and natural attractions.
The fourth MoU establishes a city-to-city cooperation framework between Kuala Lumpur and Addis Ababa. The initiative will allow the two capitals to collaborate on urban development, smart-city solutions, environmental management, and public service improvement. Authorities in both cities will share best practices on transport, waste management, housing, and digital governance.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed described the agreements as an important boost to South-South cooperation—an approach focused on strengthening collaboration among developing countries to promote shared economic growth and innovation.
“These pacts open a new chapter in our partnership,” Abiy said, adding that the agreements reflect a shared commitment to sustainable development and stronger people-to-people ties.
Officials from both sides said they expect the new cooperation frameworks to deepen economic, social, and diplomatic engagement over the coming years.
