On February 10, 2021, State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a phone conversation with Ethiopian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Demeke Mekonnen.

Demeke extended New Year greetings to all Chinese people and reiterated the bilateral traditional friendship and close cooperation in economy, trade, infrastructure construction, finance and other fields. Ethiopia has long been committed to friendly relations with China, and given China staunch support on issues involving China's core interests. Ethiopia appreciates China's assistance in providing COVID-19 vaccines, and applauds China's selfless support for Ethiopian economic and social development. Demeke also introduced the updates of the domestic situation in Ethiopia.

Wang Yi said, China-Ethiopia friendship has withstood the test of the changing international landscape, and the two countries have achieved fruitful outcomes in mutually beneficial cooperation, which has set an example for China-Africa cooperation. China always attaches great importance to the vital status and role of Ethiopia in Africa and expects that Ethiopia will play a bigger role in regional and international affairs. China hopes and believes that Ethiopia will continue to support China on issues related to China's core interests. China has decided to provide a batch of COVID-19 vaccines and funds to the country to support its fight against the pandemic and economic recovery.

Wang Yi expressed that China hopes Ethiopia will maintain peace and stability, and expects Tigray Region will restore normal production and life, hold inclusive dialogues, and safeguard national unity at an early date. China will provide emergency food assistance to the Region for relieving the difficulties of the people.

Both sides also exchanged views on hot issues in the Horn of Africa.