Addis Ababa October 02/2018 Ethiopia’s announcement for visa-on-arrival regime to African countries is a historical move to meet the African Union (AU) agenda 2063, said African Union Commission.

The Government of Ethiopia has officially launched the issuance of visa on arrival for all Africans on Thursday at the African Union Headquarter, it was learned.

Speaking at the launching ceremony, African Union Commissioner, Moussaa Faki Mahamat appreciated the decision made by Ethiopia to start visa on arrival regime for all African countries called it as “Ethiopia is taking such a great steps.”

Briefing member countries’ ambassadors, the commissioner said Ethiopia is demonstrating its commitment for the fulfillment of AU’s Agenda 2063.

Heads of States and Governments of African Union adopted a protocol to the treaty establishing the African economic community relating to free movement of people, right of residence and right of establishment in January 2018.

While 32 countries singed the instrument, Ethiopia and Rwanda are the only member countries which ratified the treaty.

However, fifteen ratifications are required for the entry into force of the protocol.

Commissioner Moussa noted that visa on arrival regime would promote intra-African trade, investment and tourism and reinforce the continental integration.

State Minister for Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Hirut Zemene underscored that Ethiopia’s decision to apply visa on arrival regime is aiming at promoting social, economic and political integration of Africa.

Peace and development of Africa will be realized through integration and cooperation, she added.

“The free movement of people would increase trade, investment and tourism of Africa and as the free movement of people get on the rise, movement goods and service will be increased so that African integration will be achieved,” the State Minister revealed.

 Director for Main Department of Ethiopian Immigration and Nationality Affairs, Gebreyohannes Teklu on his part said the regime save time and resources that would enable to deliver swift service.

The visa arrival regime would enable to control illegal migrations in the name of free movement, it was learnt.

It is to be recalled that Ethiopia had issued visa on arrival for Kenya and Djibouti so far.