Today, September 10th, is the eve of the Ethiopian New Year. Today we gather here, at the Friendship Square, to celebrate the near-completion of its construction. Good project with multifaceted features. I believe we all like it, you, me, and the Prime Minister. The Friendship Square could be a timely gift for this new year. First, it reflects the civilization, cultural diversity and unity of this great country — Ethiopia.
From the meter long embossed wall, to the embedded human migration routes, to the calla lily-shaped rostrum, the Friendship Square is like a narrative of the pride of the Ethiopian nation. It showcases the best of Ethiopia to all people across the African continent, and across the world at large, bearing in mind that Ethiopia is the land of origin, and Addis Ababa is the political capital of Africa. It will promote the service economy, creating jobs, generating revenues. It will be a tourist attraction.
People from other countries will also like it. In fact, Ethiopia, the age-old civilization, is well-positioned to develop tourism. Ethiopia could and would become one of the most visited countries in the world in the post-COVID age.
It is a place for recreation and relaxation, people taking strolls, tasting coffee, dine and wine. Indeed, the Friendship Square is designed to meet the needs of the people. It is for everyone, be it children, adults, marrying couples or sports lovers. The lush trees, blooming flowers, clear waters and green lawns, all bring out the natural beauty of the country, creating a unique space of harmonious co-existence between human and nature.
It is in line with the Green Legacy Initiative advanced by the Ethiopian government. It is worthy the name of the city: Addis Ababa, the new flower. The capital of Ethiopia is getting more and more beautiful. Last but not least, this is a friendship project. It is to further promote the friendship between our two countries — China and Ethiopia, between our two peoples — Chinese and Ethiopians.
