MK socks Ethiopian Ambassador to China (4th from right), meets Ge Lei, secretary-general of the China Tourism Association (CTA) and his party at the Embassy of Ethiopia in China on January 6, 2025. Photo: Courtesy of the Embassy of Ethiopia" src="https://www.globaltimes.cn/Portals/0/attachment/2025/2025-01-09/8839d46f-1552-46e2-b911-1e35f7cadfee.jpeg" />

Tefera Derbew Yimam, Ethiopian Ambassador to China (4th from right), meets Ge Lei, secretary-general of the China Tourism Association (CTA) and his delegation at the Embassy of Ethiopia in China on January 6, 2025. Photo: Courtesy of the Embassy of Ethiopia

Tefera Derbew Yimam, Ethiopian Ambassador to China, met Ge Lei, secretary-general of the China Tourism Association (CTA) and his delegation at the Embassy of Ethiopia in China on January 6. The two sides held in-depth talks on promoting Ethiopian tourism, and cooperation in the tourism industry between China and Ethiopia.

During the talks, Ambassador Yimam introduced Ethiopia's unique tourism offerings, and proposed that the CTA encourage its members and tour operators to promote Ethiopia. 

As the land where mankind, coffee, and the Blue Nile trace their roots, Ethiopia has always been a fascinating destination for holidaymakers. The ambassador also stressed the Ethiopian government's strong support for the tourism industry. Functioning as the gateway to Africa, Ethiopia has continuously improved the construction of tourism supporting facilities and enhanced comprehensive service capabilities in recent years. As a result, the country has gained advantages and great potential to develop international tourism. 

Against the backdrop of deepening China-Africa cooperation, the ambassador suggested that the two sides cooperate in three aspects: In tourism dialogue and activities, inviting Chinese and Ethiopian tourist companies and media sources, encouraging Chinese companies to invest in businesses in Ethiopia, and encouraging Chinese travel agencies to develop Ethiopian tourism routes. 

Ge affirmed the traditional friendship between China and Ethiopia. Meanwhile, he said that with excellent transportation conditions and unique tourism resources, Ethiopia has great potential to become an emerging market for Chinese tourists.

Ge also said that the CTA is willing to take actions by promoting the Ethiopian tourism industry in the Chinese market through the resources and channels created by the CTA, strengthening cooperation and coordination between tourism enterprises from both sides, such as developing in-depth tourism and themed tourism products, and enhancing industry exchanges. 

Ethiopia, a country with a rich cultural heritage, historical significance, and remarkable biodiversity, boasts several UNESCO World Heritage sites. These include the Melka Kunture and Balchit archaeological sites, the Bale and Simien mountains national parks, the obelisks of Aksum, and the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, among others. With a vibrant arts and crafts scene, the country is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for international tourists, including those from China.