G. Y. CHEPIK, Head of the North-East Africa Department of the DAF of the Russian Foreign Ministry Keywords: Russia, Ethiopia, diplomatic relations, trade and economic cooperation Cooperation between our countries has more than a century of history and goes back to the era of pre-revolutionary Russia and the rule of Menelik II in Ethiopia. The date of establishment of diplomatic relations is considered to be March 14, 1898. This is almost a unique case for our relations with sub-Saharan Africa (there are only two countries with which Russia has such long - standing relations-Ethiopia and South Africa). The beginning of the 20th century was full of complex and tragic events for both countries. In 1917, diplomatic relations were interrupted and resumed only in 1943. But despite all the historical vicissitudes, the contacts between our countries have always remained sincere, warm and friendly, based on mutual respect. During the Soviet period, with the assistance of our country, a number of industrial facilities were built in Ethiopia, and a large amount of geological exploration was carried out. More than 20 thousand Ethiopian citizens were educated in the USSR, and 5 thousand specialists were trained at the cooperation facilities. Today, the high level of Russian-Ethiopian political dialogue is an important factor for stability on the African continent. Last year alone, the foreign ministers of the two countries met twice - in Moscow and New York-to discuss a wide range of international and regional issues. This practice will undoubtedly continue this year. Ethiopia, as the political "heavyweight" of Africa, always remains among Russia's priority partners on the continent. It is enough to recall the role that Addis Ababa plays in the African Union, in sub-regional structures, and in its peacekeeping activities. We note with satisfaction the steady development of bilateral economic cooperation. Currently, large Russian companies in Ethiopia are working on or already im ... Read more