The preferential tariff agreement signed between Ethiopia and Norway has increased amount of Ethiopia’s exports to the later, Norwegian Ambassador Andreas Gaarder said.
The Ambassador said this preferential agreement, which was signed in 2011 opens the door for goods originating from Ethiopia to enter into Norwegian market free of duties.
The annual trade volume between the two countries, despite fluctuations every year, has reached 107 million Kroner in 2013 from 50 million in 2009.
The trade balance is in favor of Ethiopia with 95 million Kroner worth exports in 2013.
Horticulture, coffee and honey are some of the products Ethiopia exports to Norway, while it imports mainly building materials.
“The level of trade partnership has a scope to improve; I should point out that the trade balance is solidly and in favor of Ethiopia for many years.”
Regarding Ethiopia’s economy, Ambassador Andreas said the economy is booming. “…the sustained economic growth that Ethiopia has experienced is one of the fastest in the African continent combined with a large population.”
The Ambassador remarked that Ethiopia has the potential to be a voice of the world regarding climate change issues.
“Ethiopia is an important voice globally in matters of climate which is why Norway has engaged actively with Ethiopia on climate issues as part of its development cooperation.” The Ambassador appreciated Ethiopia’s efforts to become middle income country by 2025 by building green economy.
Norway is among Ethiopia’s partners regarding green economy and provides 16 million USD annually to assist Ethiopia’s efforts since 2011.
According to Spokesperson of Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dina Mufti, the two countries should work to improve economic cooperation, although the partnership is progressing.
As Ambassador Dina said the relation between the two countries is growing ‘steadily’, however, there is a need strengthen further the relationship in the areas of trade and investment.
“We would like Norwegian’s involvement in our effort to fight poverty; we hope Norwegian companies could come to invest in Ethiopia because the prospect is very much good. We would like to cooperate with them in the areas of fighting terrorism. We know the Norwegian position; they have a good at standing against the menus of terrorism. We would like also to cooperate in the issues of finding long last peace and stability our diverse… the opportunities for any investment in Ethiopia is very good and we would like to say the Norwegian you will come.”
He stated that Norway is working in promoting the issues of green energy and climate negotiations along with Ethiopia that has been working in these areas on behave of Africa.
“The current relation is growing; there is cooperation in two major areas: in the areas of humanitarian assistance and energy sector, as well. Ethiopia is the target country for the Norwegian international development assistance.”
[TheEthiopianHerald]