Africa

President Erdoğan was welcomed with a ceremony at the National Palace in Addis Ababa of Ethiopia, the first stop of his 4-day tour in the Horn of Africa. Holding a joint press conference with Ethiopian Prime Minister Desalegn, President Erdoğan underscored that the two countries have a strong brotherhood that stems from historical and cultural ties. Attending the Turkey-Ethiopia Business Forum, President Erdoğan was presented an Honorary Doctorate Degree by Addis Ababa University.

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan was welcomed with an official ceremony in Ethiopia, the first stop of his 4-day tour in the Horn of Africa that also includes Djibouti and Somalia.

President Erdoğan, his wife First Lady Emine Erdoğan and their accompanying delegation were welcomed by the Ethiopian Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn and Turkey's Ambassador to Addis Ababa Osman Rıza Yavuzalp at Addis Ababa International Airport.

PRESIDENT ERDOĞAN AT THE NATIONAL PALACE IN ADDIS ABABA

Upon their arrival at the National Palace, President Erdoğan and First Lady Erdoğan were welcomed at the door by Prime Minister Desalegn and his wife.

After President Erdoğan and Prime Minister Desalegn took their place at the ceremony, the national anthems of the two countries were played. President Erdoğan, who inspected the guards of honor, had a tete a tete with Prime Minister Desalegn. Following their talk, President Erdoğan and Prime Minister Desalegn chaired the meetings between delegations.

"WE ARE IMPROVING OUR HIGH-LEVEL RELATIONS WITH ETHIOPIA, ONE OF THE LEADING COUNTRIES IN AFRICA"

President Erdoğan held a joint press conference with Prime Minister Desalegn in Ethiopia.

Pointing out in his statement that Ethiopia is one of the leading countries in Africa with its area of approximately 1.12 million km², 97 million population, President Erdoğan expressed that high-level visits between Turkey and Ethiopia have helped improve the relations. "The relations between Turkey and African countries have been strongly solidified as a result of the 1st and 2nd Africa summits. Countries expressed their views regarding their problems and how a world of peace can be built in the future during the 2nd Turkey-Africa Summit in Malabo." stated President Erdoğan and said that Turkish entrepreneurs assume a significant role to represent Turkey in African countries.

"TURKEY AND ETHIOPIA TARGET $500 MILLION TRADE VOLUME"

Noting that the investments of the Turkish companies in Ethiopia and other African countries are pleasing, President Erdoğan said: "We will reach a trade volume of $400 million with Ethiopia by the end of 2014. Our wish is to increase it to $500 million as soon as possible. The total population of the two countries is almost 170 million. This trade volume is too low for this."

Expressing that they can send Turkish entrepreneurs to Ethiopia for energy investments, particularly hydroelectricity, President Erdoğan reminded that a large group of businessmen led by Foreign Economic Relations Board (DEIK) is accompanying him during his visit and expressed his belief that with today's talks, a new era will begin between Turkey and Ethiopia in the fields of economy and cooperation.

TURKEY'S CONTRIBUTION TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF ETHIOPIA

Stating that he will address to businessmen with Prime Minister Desalegn at the Business Forum, which will be organized by DEIK, President Erdoğan said: "We will encourage our businessmen, they can develop joint ventures in Ethiopia or they can invest in other countries together. Our construction companies can significantly contribute to the infrastructural and superstructural projects of Ethiopia. We can take joint steps in defense industry and military cooperation." Voicing his wish for the establishment of a Turkology department in Addis Ababa University, President Erdoğan stated that they would like to prepare the grounds for the joint studies of the Yunus Emre Institute.

PARALLEL STATE STRUCTURE: "TURKEY AND ETHIOPIA IN SOLIDARITY"

Expressing that the activities of the parallel state structure came up during his meeting with Desalegn, President Erdoğan said: "We discussed the parallel state structure with my dear friend Desaleng. He said 'we cannot have a positive approach towards those conducting such activities against a friendly country', regarding the illegal organization under legal disguises, the elements threatening our national security. I believe that our solidarity in this issue will add a different strength to our view of the future"

"THE ABYSSINIAN KING NECASI HAS A SPECIAL PLACE IN OUR WORLD"

When the Muslims were being oppressed, Prophet Muhammed considered Abyssinia as a secure zone and said 'The king in Abyssinia is reliable and trustworthy, you will go there', stated President Erdoğan saying: "Muslims then came here. The Abyssinian King Necasi has such a meaningful and special place in our world. Therefore, this is a secure zone."

PRIME MINISTER DESALEGN: "WE WILL NOT ALLOW ANY DIFFERENT FORMATION AND PARALLEL STRUCTURE"

Expressing in his statement that they will make direct contact with and directly talk to the Turkish government concerning any issue, Prime Minister Desalegn said: "We have shared that we will not allow any different formation and parallel structure, we will only evaluate investment opportunities directly from governments. Without the approval of the Turkish government, there will be no cooperation. Our message to all institutions and organizations, founded in Ethiopia, is very clear: As we always have done, we will require the support and approval of the Turkish government before cooperating with an institution. Our future steps, how we will act in the future are very apparent. Despite our previous cooperation based on good-will, if their nature and structure have changed, we will intensify our contacts with the Turkish government and exercise our authority according to their guidance. If we receive a different suggestion from the Turkish government, we will take all necessary measures and actions."

TURKEY-ETHIOPIA BUSINESS FORUM

President Erdoğan attended to the Business Forum with Ethiopian Prime Minister Desalegn and addressed to the businessmen.

In his speech, President Erdoğan expressed that Turkey would like to improve its relations with Ethiopia, to which it have deep-rooted historical and cultural ties, in all areas. Pointing out that as Turkey, they especially value their relations with Africa and African people, President Erdoğan said: "We initiated an opening to Africa policy 10 years ago in order to rapidly compensate for the a-century-long interval in our relations. We have successfully completed this opening policy. We would like to strengthen our relations with Africa in an understanding of an increasingly deepening partnership policy from now on."

Noting that embracing Africa does not only mean trade or economy for Turkey, President Erdoğan stated that Turkey always stands by Africa in every platform with an awareness of its problems and potential.

"ETHIOPIA, A COUNTRY OF SIGNIFICANT PRESTIGE IN INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS, SETS AN EXAMPLE FOR MANY AFRICAN COUNTRIES"

Ethiopia has a different place and importance in Africa, voiced President Erdoğan saying: "Ethiopia, which distinguishes itself with its potential and manpower, hosts the African Union, which makes it the center of the Continent. Ethiopia, a country of significant prestige in international relations, sets an example for many African countries with its development goals and exemplary practices. We regard our historical and cultural ties to Ethiopia as a privilege. Last month, our Minister of Economy paid a visit to Ethiopia with a delegation of commerce and construction. Business Forum, which was held during this visit, attracted great attention and led to productive business contacts. The trade volume between Turkey and Ethiopia had exceeded $421 million in 2013. However, there is a decline in 2014. I estimate that it will be around $400 million in 2014. The data of the first 11 months of 2014 indicate that."

"TURKEY INVESTS THE MOST TO ETHIOPIA IN AFRICA"

Expressing his belief that the trade volume between the two countries can be increased much more, President Erdoğan said: "I think, we should increase it to $500 million as soon as possible. There are almost 96 million Ethiopians and 77 Turks which in total equals to approximately 173 million people. That's why the trade volume between Turkey and Ethiopia should increase much more. As the leading economic actors in our regions, I believe we should start working towards signing an "Economic Partnership Agreement" to establish a free trade zone. We have discussed these matters today. Turkey invests the most to Ethiopia in Africa, with investments figures reaching $3 billion."

Voicing his pleasure over seeing Turkish contractors, who have a well-deserved international prestige, efficiently and actively operate in Ethiopia, President Erdoğan stated that Turkish companies have undertaken 14 projects, worth $2.5 billion in Ethiopia and emphasized that when the "Avas-Veldia Railway Project", which is the most important of all, is completed, it will be remembered as one of the most important achievements of the Turkish construction sector.

"AS TURKEY, WE ACT ON THE PRINCIPLE OF MUTUAL BENEFIT IN EVERY COUNTRY WE OPERATE"

President Erdoğan further stated: "We believe that a relation, in which only one side gains, is unethical, unhealthy and temporary. As Turkey, we act on the principle of mutual benefit in every country we operate. That's why we would like to base our economic relations not only on trade but also on investments. Investment means technology transfer, employment and export. I am pleased to see that Ethiopia is among the African countries that attract the most investment from Turkish business world. This is thanks to the convenient conditions provided by the Ethiopian authorities. I invite our companies, businessmen and entrepreneurs to invest more in this beautiful country. There is a sincerely welcoming country here, which is ready to provide all kinds of conveniences for you. I want you to do business here by integrating with the Ethiopian people in accordance with the conditions and realities of the country. I particularly would like you to act in an understanding, from which you, Turkey and Ethiopia would benefit. I believe that our cooperation will strongly improve."

COOPERATION OPPORTUNITIES IN ENERGY AND AGRICULTURE

President Erdoğan said: "The operational existence of Turkey's most powerful bank, Ziraat Bank is a crucial stepping-stone for both Turkish and Ethiopian entrepreneurs. Another significant step is that Ethiopia has a hydropower potential of 50.000 megawatt. There are electricity problems. Therefore, they state that they are open to Turkish investors who want to build hydroelectric power plants here either as sole investors or in the form of partnerships. They express that they can provide purchasing guarantee of the state for the energy they produce. I believe that such an initiative would provide significant opportunities to meet the electricity demand as well as irrigational and drinking water need of Ethiopia. You can build wind turbines, hydroelectric power plants, solar power plants or utilize the geothermal resources. All you need to do is make a plan and take a step. Another important step is agriculture. Ethiopia has an area of 1.12 million km². A Turkish entrepreneur has been allocated a quite large land, which he is currently developing for agriculture. Of course, they will take steps to expand to an integrated system such as textile. My dear friend Mr. Prime Minister says that they are ready to support such initiatives and investments. I believe that our cooperation in agriculture and livestock will lead to a strong leap.”

"ETHIOPIA IS THE FIRST SUB-SAHARAN COUNTRY WE VISITED"

As a directly-elected President, I chose Ethiopia to be the first sub-Saharan country I visited, added President Erdoğan and completed his speech by saying: "I visited Ethiopia during the Africa Summit and before that during the term of the late Prime Minister. Our friendship continued to strengthen. I hope we will continue to strengthen this process with my dear friend Hailemariam. It is another source of strength for us that one of our distinguished friends, who had served as the Ethiopian Ambassador to Ankara for 7 years, is now the President of Ethiopia. I would like to reiterate my thanks for Mr. Prime Minister and the Ethiopian people for their sincere hospitality."

PRESIDENT ERDOĞAN RECEIVES HONORARY DOCTORATE

President Erdoğan was presented an Honorary Doctorate Degree by Addis Ababa University in Ethiopia.

In his speech at the ceremony, President Erdoğan expressed that receiving an Honorary Doctorate Degree by the hand of the President of Ethiopia elated him and said: "I thank Mr. President, the distinguished professors and students of Addis Ababa University for their sincere hospitality. I also would like to express my excitement and gratitude for the Honorary Doctorate Degree that I am presented."

"ETHIOPIA IS ONE OF THE OLDEST CIVILIZATION CENTERS OF AFRICA AND THE WORLD"

Ethiopia has an exceptional place in Africa and on Earth, stated President Erdoğan and said: "We see that more than 80 languages, different cultures, beliefs and ethnicities sustain their existence in complete harmony and accord under Ethiopian identity. Moreover, this harmony and accord have been strongly continuing for thousands of years. Ethiopia is one of the oldest civilization centers of Africa and the world with its own calendar and alphabet. Ethiopia, which has never been colonized, has an exceptional place in Africa with its leadership and struggle against colonialism."

"ETHIOPIA HAS TAUGHT MANKIND A LOT AND CONTINUES TO TEACH TODAY"

Ethiopia has taught mankind a lot and continues to teach today, stated President Erdoğan said: "Ethiopia has a different place in the history and present-day of Turkey. The relations between Turkey and Ethiopia dates back to 16th century. Memluk Turkish State and the Ottoman Empire established the first relations with this vast geography called Abyssinia and these relations have continued for centuries. There still are many families of Turkish origin in Harar. We never have and never will forget the support of the Harar Turks for the Ottoman Empire during World War One. We are carrying out many humanitarian aid and culture projects in Ethiopia via Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) as a show of our appreciation and gratitude. TIKA had opened its first office in Africa here in Ethiopia and continues to successfully work for the friendship and solidarity of the two countries today. We also thank the Ethiopian government and people for their assistance in the activities of TIKA."

THE ABYSSINIAN KING NECASI'S TOLERANCE TO MUSLIMS IN THE 7TH CENTURY

Regarding Ethiopia's place in the eyes of Islam and Muslims, President Erdoğan said: "I believe it is very important to remember and consider this beautiful historical incident again. As you know, Prophet Muhammed of Islam and his friends were subjected to serious torture in Mecca. As the torture got unbearable, Prophet Muhammed advised some of his companions to migrate to Abyssinia. 15 of the first Muslims travelled here on a boat and sought shelter from King Necasi. Although people of Mecca demanded their return, King Necasi did not handed them over, as was his reputation 'reliable and fair'. He told the Muslims that they could stay as long as they wanted. This incident actually has a very important place in Islamic history. What actually matters here is that a Christian king, a Christian state protected the first Muslims with great tolerance. Such solidarity between Muslims and Christian in the 7th century in 615 is very significant. Since that time, since the 7th century, Ethiopia has always been the land of tolerance and respect for difference. That's why Ethiopia is a reliable and trustworthy country. If they had followed the example of Ethiopia, the holocaust, the genocide would not have happened there in Germany. So many Muslims would not have been massacred because of their religious and sectarian differences in Iraq and Syria. There would not be Islamophobia and oppressions against Muslims in Palestine and Europe. 14 centuries ago, 15 Muslims took shelter in Ethiopia. The king of the time did not turn them away or hand them over or mock their faith or insult their sacred beliefs or interfere with their prayers or return them to the oppressors who demanded them back."

"IF TODAY'S MANKIND IS LESS TOLERANT THAT ETHIOPIA IN THE 7TH CENTURY, THERE IS SOMETHING WRONG HERE"

In those so-called dark and primitive ages, even war had ethics; women, children, elderly and disabled people would not be harmed, stated President Erdoğan and said: "There was no savagery such as mass murder or genocide. The kind of mass destructive savagery by atomic bombs, nuclear weapons, chemical and conventional weapons did not happen then. Is the mankind progressing or regressing? This must be seriously discussed today. Is the mankind getting more civilized or barbaric? This should be sincerely debated. If today's mankind is less tolerant than Ethiopia in the 7th century, there is clearly something wrong here."

"TERROR DOES NOT HAVE ANY RELIGION, SECT OR HUMAN VALUES, TERROR IS MURDER"

Recalling that there was a terrorist attack on a magazine in Paris, France a few weeks ago and people were killed, President Erdoğan said: "Immediately after this terrorist attack, intolerant attitude against Muslims started in Europe and the whole world. There had already been attacks on mosques, sanctuaries and Muslim but they increased after this incident. Terror does not have any religion, sect or human values, terror is murder. The perpetrator is a terrorist, a murderer whether he is a Muslim or a Christian or a Jew. We have been struggling against terror for over 40 years in Turkey. This terrorist organization, terrorist ISIL, which sheds blood in Iraq and Syria, the Israeli state terror against Palestinians and all other terrorist organizations in the world are murderer organizations. However, I would like to especially express this: Terror and violence are not implemented only by weapons. Attacking sacred values is an act of terror and violence. Attacking faiths, racism and discrimination are acts of terror and violence.”

"ISLAMIC TERRORISM IS AN EXTREMELY WRONG DEFINITION"

Emphasizing that Turkey has a clear stance against terrorism, President Erdoğan said: "We are completely against terror regardless of its origin or justification. We are against the extremely wrong definition 'Islamic terrorism'. Nobody can mention Islam with terror because Islam is peace.

Stating that Turkey strongly contributes to put an end to the Ebola outbreak in West Africa, which is a global health issue, President Erdoğan said: "We are delivering the $5 million and medical supplies, which we allocated to fight the Ebola outbreak, to the affected countries."

DINNER IN PRESIDENT ERDOĞAN’S HONOR

Afterwards, President Erdoğan attended to the official dinner given in his honor by Prime Minister Desalegn of Ethiopia.

FIRST LADY ERDOĞAN MEETS REPRESENTATIVES OF NGOS IN AFRICA

First Lady Emine Erdoğan who is in the Ethiopian capital city of Addis Ababa with President Erdoğan, met with First Lady Roman Tesfaye of Ethiopia and then visited the National Museum of Ethiopia on the first day of their 4 day Africa tour.

VISIT TO THE NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ETHIOPIA

First Lady Erdoğan received information about 4 million-years-old Lucy, the oldest human skeleton in the world. After her visit to the museum, which also contains an art collection about Ethiopian history, First Lady Erdoğan visited an NGO, which works for the welfare of the AIDS-infected women under the aegis of the First Lady of Ethiopia. First Lady Erdoğan received information about the struggle against HIV virus and AIDS, which are common in Ethiopia. First Lady Erdoğan, who had the opportunity to know the organizations that help isolated and desperate women hold onto life with their handicraft, visited the textile workshop of the center and bought hand-crafted objects, made by the women working to make end meets and provide for their children.

"THE PROBLEMS CONCERNING WOMEN, CHILDREN AND EDUCATION ARE SIMILAR IN DEVELOPED AND DEVELOPING COUNTRIES”

After these visits, First Lady Erdoğan met with the representatives of a local women's NGO at Addis Ababa University. Prominent entrepreneur women of Ethiopia attended to the round table meeting and briefed the guests about their fields. In her speech at the meeting moderated by First Lady Roman Tesfaye of Ethiopia, First Lady Erdoğan drew attention to the similarity of the problems concerning women, children and education in developed and developing countries, and expressed that mutually exchanging ideas about common problems will yield global benefits. First Lady Erdoğan pointed out the works of the Turkish State and NGOs in the fields Ethiopia needs.

"TURKEY HAS NEVER APPROACHED AFRICA WITH A SELF-SERVING, COLONIALIST MENTALITY"

Stating that Turkey has never approached Africa with a self-serving, colonialist mentality, and has invested to build water wells, to support orphans and to open health facilities, First Lady Erdoğan underscored that all these investments have been carried out with humanitarian purposes. Expressing that a versatile approach is necessary to fight against the common problems concerning woman health, First Lady Erdoğan stated that problematic religious perceptions, and strict traditional conducts sometimes cause health problems, threatening the mind-body integrity of women, thus societies need a radical mentality revolution. First Lady Erdoğan emphasized that Ethiopians, an agricultural society, must appreciate the value of the chemically unpolluted lands of Ethiopia, study and research natural agriculture and convey the environmental awareness to the next generations.

Following the round table meeting at the university, First Lady Erdoğan presented the university library a book set of books published in English by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Having completed his programme in Ethiopia, President Erdoğan proceeded to Riyadh to attend to the funeral of King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud of Saudi Arabia.