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ISLAMABAD, Jan 16 (APP):The Institute of Strategic Studies Islamabad (ISSI) formalized an institutional relationship with Ethiopia’s Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA), based in Addis Ababa, by concluding a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
The MoU was signed by Ambassador Khalid Mahmood, Chairman Board of Governors ISSI, and by H.E Jafar Bedru Geletu, Executive Director, IFA, for their respective sides, said a press release issued on Friday.
The MoU was facilitated by the Centre for Afghanistan, Middle East and Africa (CAMEA). The signing ceremony was also attended by Atif Mian Sharif, Ambassador of Pakistan to Ethiopia; and Ambassador Dr. Oumer Hussein Oba, Ambassador of Ethiopia to Pakistan.
Director CAMEA Dr. Amina Khan, while giving her introductory remarks, stated that the signing of the MoU was a reflection of warmth and desire on both sides to expand the scope of bilateral interaction. She hoped that the MoU would help further the relationship between Pakistan and Ethiopia, through institutional linkages for collaborative research and dialogue on issues of mutual interest.
Welcoming the MoU, Ambassador Khalid Mahmood said Pakistan and Ethiopia share cordial and long-standing relations, and strengthening ties with the Institute of Foreign Affairs aligns with Pakistan’s Engage Africa policy, promoting dialogue, research, and knowledge exchange. He highlighted that this partnership reflects ISSI’s commitment to fostering regional cooperation and informed policy engagement.
H.E. Jafar Bedru Geletu described the MoU as a historic step that renews a decades-old friendship, turning goodwill into action and strengthening research and institutional cooperation, while creating opportunities for deeper dialogue and joint initiatives between the two countries.
Ambassador Atif Mian Sharif said the agreement would encourage joint research, knowledge sharing, and informed policy discourse, noting improvements in bilateral ties through direct flights, consultations, and exhibitions.
Dr. Oumer Hussein Oba highlighted the MoU’s potential to bridge gaps in relations and stressed practical cooperation through training and institutional engagement, noting that it would pave the way for sustained collaboration and mutual benefits for both countries.
The ceremony concluded with the signing of the MoU by both sides