Addis Ababa, November 27, 201(WIC) — Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Dessalgen has urged the Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA) to encourage more Japanese investment in Ethiopia.
During a meeting with visiting JICA President Dr. Shinichi Kitaoka here Wednesaday, Hailemariam said Japan was among Ethiopia’s strategic partners which had a special role in disseminating the Kaizen philosophy of continuous improvement in the country’s industrial sector.
The Prime Minister further indicated that Ethiopia needed JICA to play a role, particularly in convincing Japanese investors who have shown interest to take part in Ethiopia’s geothermal energy development.
He said the country also anticipates the agency’s support to attract the engagement of large Japanese companies to the country’s industrial sector.
The premier stated that the continuation of industrial development dialogue with Japan, particularly in expanding the implementation of the Kaizen philosophy at work places, was among the issues Ethiopia had given priority to.
Dr. Kitaoka said Ethiopia is among the leading countries which had strong co-operation with JICA.
The success Ethiopia had registered in implementing the Kaizen philosophy at workplaces was the manifestation of the strong relationship between the country and the agency, he added.
According to him, JICA has a plan to support Ethiopia’s geothermal and industrial development and to encourage the participation of Japanese investors in Ethiopia (BERNAMA-ENA).