Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew Bekele Celebrates Inaugural Algiers-Addis Ababa Flight: A Historic Leap in Diplomatic and Economic Collaboration, Paving the Way for Future Partnerships
BY: Hana Saada
Algiers, September 22, 2023 – In a historic moment that signals a new era of diplomatic cooperation and economic collaboration, Air Algérie inaugurated a direct air link connecting Algiers to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s vibrant capital city. The inaugural flight, which took to the skies on Thursday, September 21, 2023, witnessed the presence of Algeria’s Minister of Transport, Youcef Chorfa, and the Ethiopian Ambassador to Algiers, Mr. Nabiate Guetasho.
The significance of this strategic initiative was underlined by Ethiopian Airlines’ CEO, Mesfin Tasew Bekele, who welcomed the honorable guests and conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to Air Algérie on this historic achievement. Mr. Bekele emphasized the profound impact this new air link would have on diplomatic relations, business partnerships, and people-to-people connections between the two nations.
“Ethiopian Airlines has long aspired to establish a direct connection to Algeria, bridging Addis Ababa with Algiers,” noted Mr. Bekele. “Today, Air Algérie has made history by launching the first flight connecting our two capital cities. This step will not only strengthen relations between our nations but also foster business collaborations and enhance the bonds between our people. Ethiopian Airlines flies to over 63 cities in Africa, serving as a vital bridge between Africa and the world. While we haven’t been able to connect North African countries with Sub-Saharan Africa until now, we are fully committed to partnering with Air Algérie to establish an air corridor between Algeria and Eastern Africa via Addis Ababa. We eagerly anticipate forging lasting partnerships to bolster this connectivity.”
The Algiers – Addis Ababa route is set to operate with an average of two weekly flights, significantly expanding Air Algérie’s global reach. This strategic move increases the total number of weekly flights servicing African destinations to an impressive 23, solidifying Air Algérie’s position as a prominent player in the African aviation landscape.
Minister Youcef Chorfa, who presided over the inauguration ceremony, highlighted the broader impact of this expansion, aligning it with the vision and directives of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. “President Tebboune has consistently advocated for enhanced air and maritime links between Algeria and its African counterparts,” said Minister Chorfa. “The Algiers – Addis Ababa route is a testament to this commitment. It is not just a flight; it is a symbol of our nation’s dedication to fostering global cooperation. This expansion will facilitate the seamless movement of people and goods, opening doors to new economic, social, and partnership opportunities within Algeria. We anticipate this to create a vibrant and dynamic atmosphere, propelling Algeria toward a promising future.”
The collaboration between Air Algérie and Ethiopian Airlines stands as a testament to the power of aviation to strengthen diplomatic ties, promote economic growth, and create new horizons for both nations.
