Starbucks has not changed its position on Ethiopia’s trademark initiative. The company refused to sign the licensing agreement with Ethiopia. The country still wants to secure ownership of the coffee marks. The following joint statement is the outcome of Starbucks’ PR ploy. It is bizarre that the Ethiopian government signs on it. Coming up : a complete assessment of Starbucks' trip to Addis. --------- Ethiopia's Government and Starbucks Joint Statement ADDIS ABABA and SEATTLE, 18 Feb. 2007, The Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and The Starbucks Coffee Company recognize their shared interests and responsibility in the sustainability and growth of the Ethiopian coffee sector. Strong partnerships between the Government, coffee companies, donors and other stakeholders are critical to the growth of the sector. The Government of Ethiopia and Starbucks have agreed to work together in their shared vision to increase Ethiopian farmer incomes and enhance the ...