Developing the tourism sector is one of the pillars of job creation and attracting investments for the government of Ethiopia.
Preservation of heritage sites is therefore one of key priority areas in the sector. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed met with the Minister of Culture of the French Republic, Franck Riester this morning to discuss progress on the restoration work of the Rock Hewn Churches of Lalibela and the Jubilee Palace, currently being supported by France.
Noting the strengthened relations between the two countries PM Abiy recounted the immense support of President Emmanuel Macron and encouraged expediting the restoration works.
Mr. Riester expressed his visit as a commitment of President Macron to the preservation of heritage important to both countries, and to sharing technical expertise and skills.
While studies to determine restoration needs are nearing completion for the Jubilee Palace, the technical work is expected to begin in a few months towards readying the Palace for tourism.