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An open and public
discussion on the Diaspora Policy, which is highly expected to boost the
participation of the Ethiopian Diaspora communities across the globe in the
development activities of the country and protect their benefits and
interests, has kicked off in various states and cities across the US.
The public discussions were spearheaded by officials from the Ethiopian
Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian Embassy in
Washington DC, the Office of the Ethiopian Permanent Representative to the
UN in New York and the Ethiopian Consulate General in Los Angeles.
The salient points encapsulated in the new Draft policy were presented with
their varied ramifications that are designed to spur the participation of
the Diaspora community in the national drive currently in full swing in
Ethiopia.
According to the briefings offered at different venues the New Diaspora
Policy is imbued with propitious conditions that enhance Diaspora
participation in a meaningful manner by providing solid opportunities in
investment, trade, education, health services and other areas of interest
across the vast expanse of our nation, it was learnt.
During the briefings and public discussions held it was made clear that the
Policy is enriched with instruments that facilitate pertinent and conducive
environment that encourages members of the Diaspora communities to directly
partake in all levels of decision making through mechanisms that enhance
their participation. Councils to be established by the Diaspora will enable
them to put their imprint on decisions that impact their participation and
interest.
Special focus of the Policy it was stated, were the steps taken to bring the
knowledge, experience, skill and financial resources of the Diaspora to the
country in an organized fashion that could entail dual benefits to the
nation and at the same time empower the Diaspora communities. In the course
of the briefing sessions held members of the Diaspora communities raised
pertinent quips that have enriched the discourse.
So far, it was learnt that briefing sessions were held in San Jose, Los
Angeles, Atlanta, Dallas, New York, Boston, Indianapolis and Denver.
According to information gathered, more than 15,000 members of the Ethiopian
Diaspora are expected to take part in the discussion which will take place
in 22 cities all over the world. |
