Islamabad (TDI): The Embassy of Ethiopia in Pakistan hosted a grand, joint reception to celebrate the Ethiopian New Year, called locally “Enkutatash,” and the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).
Almost 500 guests attended the ceremony, including key government officials and portfolio holders.
The Chairman of Pakistan’s Senate, Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, was the chief guest while Defense Minister, Khawaja Asif, was the guest of honor.
Among other distinguished guests were Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination, Minister for IT & Telecommunication, Minister for Culture and Heritage, Additional Secretary (Africa), and the spokesperson for President.
#HappeningNow : Warm Reception for #Enkutatash Begins!
Ethiopian Embassy Islamabad celebrating the Ethiopian New Year E.C.2018, Inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), and Unity Day in #islamabad, #Pakistan.@MFAEthiopia pic.twitter.com/Bnn8xhrKgu
— Ethiopian Embassy Islamabad (@ETEmbassyISB) September 8, 2025
In his opening address, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, extended New Year greetings, elaborating on Ethiopia’s unique calendar system, which has 13 months in total.
“By attending today’s gathering, all of us in this room got seven years younger… because Ethiopia is celebrating the start of 2018 today,” he told the audience.
The Ambassador emphasized that Enkutatash symbolizes hope and optimism. He also spoke about Ethiopia’s rich heritage as the origin of humankind, highlighting its history of religious harmony and diverse culture.
While describing the inauguration of Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, the Ambassador told the guests that the dam is entirely financed by Ethiopians.
He added that it will not significantly harm any downstream countries; making a reference to the concerns raised by Egypt time and again that the dam will disrupt the water that flows downwards into the country.
Ambassador Beker further said that Pakistan and Ethiopia share the same objectives: ensuring peace, prosperity, and dignity for every citizen. Looking ahead, he expressed hope for closer partnerships in renewable energy, agricultural innovation, and parliamentary exchanges.
Read More: Ethiopian Delegation Arrives in Pakistan for ‘Plant Fraternity’ Drive
Chairman Senate Gilani, while addressing the ceremony, reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further strengthening its historic ties with Ethiopia.
“The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is not merely a structure of concrete and steel, it is a symbol of Ethiopia’s determination, collective vision, and progress,” he said.
He underscored that Pakistan and Ethiopia share centuries-old trade and cultural linkages, which are being reinvigorated under Pakistan’s Look Africa Policy.
Sohail Majeed
Sohail Majeed is a Special Correspondent at The Diplomatic Insight. He has twelve plus years of experience in journalism & reporting. He covers International Affairs, Diplomacy, UN, Sports, Climate Change, Economy, Technology, and Health.
