Addis Ababa, Feb. 12(ENA)--Foreign Minister Seyoum Mesfin has underlined the need to strengthen Ethiopia's diplomatic relations in a bid to achieve an all-rounded and rapid economic development in the country.

Maintaining the national interests of the country and pulling the people from the quagmire of poverty should be placed at the top of the nation's foreign relations' agenda, Seyoum said.

The Foreign Minister made the remarks here on Tuesday at the conclusion of the three-week meeting organized for Ethiopian ambassadors and senior diplomats serving in various countries across the world.

Much was expected from Ethiopian diplomats in ensuring the country's sovereignty and improving its international image, Seyoum said.

He said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which is charged with the task of executing the country's foreign policy, was duty-bound to closely follow and rectify the weaknesses witnessed in the diplomatic relations.

Seyoum has also urged the diplomats to keep abreast the international community about the efforts exerted by the people and government of Ethiopia to attain a meaningful economic and social transformation.

The foreign minister said participants of the meeting discussed on wide-ranging issues including ways of promoting Ethiopia's trade, industry and tourism sectors.

Seyoum handed over on the occasion an honorary award and certificate to Ambassador Konjit Sene-giorgis, who served diligently as a career diplomat for 39 years.

(ENA)