“The diaspora needs to reinforce its involvement in national development.” Ambassador Misganu Arega
Bahir Dar, 17 July, 2023 (AMECO) – Ambassador Misganu Arga, State Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated that the impact of the diaspora to national development should be strengthened.
A discussion was held on how to build long-term national relationships and participation with members of the North American diaspora community residing in and around Washington, DC.
The talk was attended by State Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Misganu Arga, Director General of Ethiopian Diaspora Service Dr. Mohamed Endris, Ambassador of Ethiopia to the United States of America Selshi Bekele, and representatives of the diaspora community.
At the occasion, Ambassador Misganu complimented the diaspora for its contributions, including standing up for and supporting the country, being the country’s voice, and putting its stamp on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, and added that efforts should be stepped up.
Dr. Mohamed Andris, Director General of Ethiopian Diaspora Service, stated that the Diaspora’s commitment to the country’s image building, economy and culture development, and public diplomacy as ambassadors is ageless.
Selshi Bekele, Ethiopia’s ambassador to the United States stated that the diaspora should participate more in national development, image building, and knowledge and technology transfer.
Participants in the debate raised questions and suggestions about national and current agendas, access to information, hurdles to investment involvement, diaspora rights, service delivery, and other concerns, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated.
It was claimed that the Diaspora should observe, understand, and support the operations of the National Consultative Commission, the transitional justice process, and reconstruction efforts so that the country’s difficulties can be handled via openness and engagement.
