Minister of Foreign Affairs Gideon Sa’ar today (Wednesday, 12 March 2025) hosted Ethiopian Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr. Gedion Timothewos on his first visit to Israel.
The two foreign ministers first met privately and then held an expanded bilateral meeting focused on enhancing relations between the two countries in all areas. Foreign Minister Sa’ar announced that he will soon undertake a reciprocal visit to Ethiopia.
Following their meeting, the two made statements to the media.
FM Sa’ar: “Today’s visit is the first visit in the framework of an initiative I am leading to strengthen ties with African countries. Strengthening relations with these countries is one of our strategic goals for 2025, and Ethiopia has a central role in this region.
Terrorism is a common threat to our nations. Ethiopia plays a critical role in the fight against the terrorist organization Al-Shabaab, which threatens the stability of the Horn of Africa. Al-Shabaab collaborates with the Iranian-backed Houthis in Yemen, undermining security and stability in the region.
The Houthis have launched hundreds of missiles and drones at Israeli communities and civilians since October 7, disrupting international trade routes and are now threatening to prevent Israeli ships from passing through the Red Sea. They pose a threat to Israel, Africa, and the entire world order.
We are witnessing radical Islamic terrorism in our regions: Hamas in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, jihadists in Syria and al-Shabaab in Africa. Terrorism must be eradicated.”
