Ethiopia would be happy to develop cooperation with the Russian car company AvtoVAZ, including facilitating its investment in the republic, Uriat Cham Ugala, Ethiopia's ambassador to Russia told Sputnik.
"It would be great if that happens. We are working hard to persuade Russian companies to do business in Ethiopia. Therefore, if this happens and AvtoVAZ representatives go to Ethiopia, we will do our best to support them," he said.
Cham Ugala added that when delivering Russian cars to Ethiopia, it will be easier for Russia to reach the markets of neighboring countries.
Earlier, AvtoVAZ CEO Maxim Sokolov said that the company is actively negotiating the organization of the export and assembly of Lada cars with Ethiopia.
In late June, Ambassador Cham Ugala gave an exclusive interview to Sputnik Africa, where he said that it is "high time" for Russia to come to Africa and expand economic cooperation.
According to the diplomat, it is necessary to develop ties in investment and trade, education, energy, science, and technology.
Apart from that, during the summit, Ghana will discuss with Russian carmaker UAZ the possible localization of the concern's car production in the country, according to the Chairman of the Ghana-Russia Business Development Council Lawrence Awuku-Boateng.
The second Russia-Africa Summit and Economic Forum will be hosted in St. Petersburg on July 27-28. The event is focused on fostering comprehensive and balanced cooperation between Russia and African countries.