RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil – Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa announced expanded bilateral cooperation with Ethiopia in tourism and healthcare, along with joint efforts to combat human trafficking.
During his visit to Brazil for the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, Minister Maris met with Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos to discuss key areas of cooperation. The two sides agreed to enhance collaboration, particularly in medical tourism, which is gaining popularity among Ethiopian citizens.
Minister Maris also shared his pleasure in Thailand’s invitation to 15 African nations, including Ethiopia, to attend the first Thailand Development Forum for Africa, to be held in Bangkok from May 11–16. The forum aims to share Thailand’s development model and foster closer partnerships with African countries. Ethiopia has confirmed its participation, and Minister Gedion expressed keen interest in learning from Thailand’s experience and expanding cooperation.
A critical issue raised during the meeting was the assistance in repatriating Ethiopian nationals who had been deceived into working in Myanmar. So far, 135 Ethiopians have been safely returned home, and both sides stressed the importance of addressing this issue and working together to eradicate human trafficking. (TNA)
