Anwar invites Ethiopia to open embassy in KL

Malaysia has extended an invitation to Ethiopia to open an embassy in Kuala Lumpur, as both nations work to enhance their relationship following several high-level meetings. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim made the offer during a meeting with his Ethiopian counterpart, Abiy Ahmed, on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, India. The two leaders pledged to hold their first bilateral consultation in Kuala Lumpur the following year to discuss various issues and identify new areas for collaboration.

During their conversation, Anwar and Abiy also examined avenues to boost cooperation in trade, investment, and several burgeoning industries. They explored possibilities in halal products, agriculture, food security, pharmaceuticals, digital services, renewable energy, and tourism. Anwar expressed his delight at the growing ties between the two countries, following reciprocal visits by both prime ministers in recent years.

In 2024, Abiy visited Malaysia, and earlier that same year, Anwar paid an official visit to Ethiopia. To further strengthen their partnership, Malaysia reopened its embassy in Addis Ababa in September 2024, marking 43 years since it was closed. Anwar highlighted Malaysia's commitment to expanding trade with Ethiopia, pointing out that the African nation's reforms, logistics ambitions, and youthful, dynamic workforce offer a solid foundation for deeper cooperation.

In 2023, Ethiopia ranked as Malaysia's 26th largest trading partner in Africa, with bilateral trade valued at RM446.8 million. Trade volumes between the two nations increased by 40.1% in 2024, reaching RM626 million, although they remain relatively limited.