Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed and President Emmanuel Macron of France today visited the Rock-Hewn churches of Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site, in Lalibela, Amhara regional state.
It is to be recalled that Prime Minister Dr Abiy secured a support pledge from the French Government in Oct 2018 that would go toward restoration of the churches.
Speaking to journalists after the visit, Prime Minister Dr Abiy said that President Macron assured him that France would provide support for the restoration of the churches.
President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Lalibela, Amhara regional state, for a two-day state visit to Ethiopia this afternoon. This is President Macron’s first state visit to Ethiopia.
President Macron will also meet with President Sahle-Work Zewde for talks on bilateral and regional issues of mutual benefit to the peoples of the two countries.
The two countries will sign different agreements, including on space and economic cooperation initiated by the private sector.
The two countries have enjoyed strong diplomatic relations since 1897.
During Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Paris last October, France agreed to provide support to protect and preserve the Lalibela churches.
President Macron also indicated that he will consider budgetary support to Ethiopia supplementing existing multilateral initiatives.
Plans in urban development and Ethiopian Air transport development strategy were also on the agenda.
Macron also praised PM Dr Abiy for his local reforms and regional peace efforts.