Italian and Greek investors are in Addis Ababa, capital of Ethiopia, to assess business and investment opportunities and discuss with Ethiopian counterparts on possible partnerships.
Companies engaged in floriculture, coffee, leather, mining and energy are taking part in the Ethio- Italy/Greek joint business forum, which was kicked off here yesterday.
Speaking on the occasion, Ethiopian State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dewano Kedir expressed hope that the forum would create opportunity for the companies to work in partnership.
Ethiopia has been on the investment radar for many investors, due to the development of the country, Dewano said.
The political stability and economic development, conducive investment atmosphere and favorable policy, combined with abundant natural resources and cheap labor makes the nation favorable investment destination, he said.
Regarding investment, Italy has already become one of the major FDI sources, Italian investment in different sectors including industry, agricultural and construction is growing, he said.
Some 200 investment projects with an aggregate capital 6.2 billion Birr owned by Italy companies are operating in Ethiopia between 1994 and 2014, adding, the government is keen to support investors. “We in Ethiopia are committed to work hard to encourage Italian involvement in investment areas.”
Although there are projects owned by Geeks with a combined capital of close to 350 million Birr, but it is not as desired, he said.
“We also have very positive relationship with Greek. So we have to develop this relationship particularly in the areas of economy, investment and trade. In this regard we need to work hard to further strengthen that situation,” he said.
“Ethiopia has everything that you need, … including conducive business environments, political stability and cleaner business climate,” he said.
Representative of Natalepelli, an Italian leather company, Rorberto Natale told ENA that Ethiopia is conducive for investment. “Ethiopia is very good for investment, to do business and its airlines play vital role in this regard.
“I found Ethiopia very good for investment and do business” he said.
[EthiopianNewsAgency]