Ethiopians and Ethiopian Americans residing in the Bay area pledged to pursue their development activities in their homeland

During a seminar organized by the Consulate General of Ethiopia in Los Angeles for Ethiopians and Ethiopian Americans residing in the Bay Area in San Jose, CA on April 01, 2007, issues ranging from Investment and Trade opportunities in Ethiopia, contribution of the Diaspora in the economic development of their country, as well as housing association formation were discussed.

 The meeting was led by Ambassador Taye Atske Selassie who briefed the community about the achievements registered in the Export, Investment, Trade, Industry, and Real Estate Sector.  He also informed the participants about the available opportunities for Ethiopians living abroad who wish to be engaged in the agricultural and industrial sector.

 Following his presentation, participants present at the meeting were given the opportunity to raise issues related to the presentation. While appreciating their governments endeavor to promote Trade and Investment in the country as well as the encouragement given to Ethiopians and Ethiopian Americans living abroad to build residential housing in their homeland, participants mentioned several concerns such as the bureaucratic hurdles as well as corruption currently surfacing in the country which undoubtedly was an impediment to their endeavor. They requested the Consulate to address these issues to the pertinent bodies in Ethiopia so that the Diaspora leaving abroad currently engaged in various  activities would be successful and not be discouraged in its effort to contribute to the development of the country.