Addis Ababa, December 19, 2025 (ENA) —Semereta Sewasew, State Minister of Finance of Ethiopia, today met with a high-level Dutch delegation at the Grand Palace to discuss strengthening economic relations, supporting debt reforms, and expanding Dutch investment in Ethiopia. The delegation was led by Aukje de Vries, Minister for Foreign Trade and Development of the Netherlands, and H.E. Christine Pirenne, Netherlands Ambassador to Ethiopia. The meeting comes as Ethiopia and the Netherlands approach a historic milestone: 100 years of diplomatic and economic relations. State Minister Semereta highlighted the Netherlands as a key trading partner, noting that over 100 Dutch entrepreneurs are currently active in Ethiopia, particularly in the agriculture and horticulture sectors. Minister de Vries expressed strong interest in Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reform programs, including its engagement with the IMF and debt restructuring initiatives. Semereta emphasized the government’s priority to "create enough space for private sector engagement" while enhancing trade relations to increase domestic revenue and boost exports. Discussions also focused on improving the business and investment climate. While recognizing Dutch investors’ commitment to long-term strategic partnerships, both sides acknowledged existing challenges and expressed optimism that the business environment would continue to improve. The meeting concluded with plans for upcoming initiatives to further strengthen collaboration. A Dutch trade mission focused on horticulture and logistics is scheduled for March, followed by an EU business conference in April. These initiatives aim to leverage the shared "hands-on mentality" of both nations to drive sustainable economic growth. The high-level delegation from the Dutch Government and the Minister of Finance made a remarkable visit of the Jubilee Palace witnessing a living relic, reflecting Ethiopia’s royal heritage and an iconic feature of the country’s history.

Addis Ababa, December 19, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia and the Netherlands have taken a major step to deepen their partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand cooperation across multiple areas. The agreement followed talks between Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and Dutch Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Aukje de Vries. Both ministers highlighted the countries’ longstanding diplomatic relations and emphasized the importance of further strengthening bilateral cooperation. The MoU establishes a framework for political consultations and aims to enhance collaboration on bilateral, regional, and multilateral issues, with a particular focus on scaling up trade and investment. Furthermore, the agreement reflects growing ties and constructive engagement between the two nations, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Addis Ababa, December 19, 2025 (ENA) — A business forum aimed at promoting investment opportunities in Ethiopia’s mining sector was held in Tokyo on December 18, bringing together Ethiopian and Japanese public and private sector stakeholders. The forum was organized by the Ethiopian Embassy in Tokyo in collaboration with the Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC), the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO), and other relevant institutions, and targeted Japanese investors engaged in the mining sector. In his opening remarks, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Japan, Daba Debele, noted that Ethiopia possesses significant reserves of gold, natural gas, potash, tantalum, and other valuable minerals, which have increasingly attracted the interest of foreign investors in recent years. He emphasized that the mining sector has gained growing importance in the national economy, particularly following the government’s recent economic reforms, and encouraged Japanese companies to explore investment opportunities in the sector. In a video message to participants, Minister of Mines Habtamu Tegegne highlighted the mining sector as one of Ethiopia’s priority economic areas, underscoring the country’s substantial gold and mineral reserves.   He noted that gold production has increased markedly in recent years as a result of ongoing reforms and assured potential investors that the Ministry would provide the necessary support to foreign companies operating in the sector. Deputy Commissioner of the Ethiopian Investment Commission, Dagato Kumbe, also said providing a detailed overview of government incentives available to mining investors, including the availability of a one-stop service designed to facilitate investment processes. Hiroshi Kubota, Vice President of Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) said the forum had deepened his understanding of the vital role the mining sector plays in Ethiopia’s economy. He noted that his institution would extend support to Japanese companies interested in investing in Ethiopia’s mining sector.

Addis Ababa, December 18, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopian Airlines has reinforced its commitment to service excellence as it moves to enhance customer satisfaction and protect its global standing in an increasingly competitive aviation market. In an exclusive interview with the Ethiopian News Agency, Managing Director of Ground Services at Ethiopian Airlines Group, Gemechis Tujuba, said the airline places continuous improvement at the center of its strategy. “Our strategic goal is to consistently meet and exceed customer expectations through continuous service improvements,” he stated. As part of this effort, the airline has recently inaugurated a new state of the art premium lounge at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. Gemechis said the facility represents a major investment of 16 million US dollars and reflects the airline’s long-term focus on elevating the passenger experience.     With the capacity to serve up to 1,000 passengers at the same time, he noted that the new lounge is now the largest and most modern facility of its kind at the airport. While Bole International Airport already hosts Premium, Business Class and Silver lounges, he said the new addition sets a higher benchmark for comfort, exclusivity and service quality. Gemechis further explained that aviation is, by its very nature, a highly competitive industry where airlines must constantly innovate to stay ahead. According to him, offering world class facilities, the first of their kind in Africa, gives Ethiopian Airlines a clear competitive advantage.     Sustained success depends on continuous investment in quality, efficiency and passenger focused services, he noted. “Our premium passengers will receive premium service that turns travelers into permanent customers, so people from across the globe will prefer to travel particularly to Addis Ababa and, as a whole, across Ethiopia,” he stated. The Managing Director added that the enhanced premium services will significantly improve the overall customer experience while adding tangible value to the airline’s service offering, further strengthening Ethiopian Airlines’ position in regional and global markets.

Addis Ababa, December 19, 2025 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held strategic talks this afternoon with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who arrived in Ethiopia for a one-day working visit aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries. In a social media post, Prime Minister Abiy said the discussions built on engagements held over the past year. “We held a productive working lunch, continuing the discussions held over the past year and building on the progress made in strengthening our bilateral cooperation,” the Prime Minister stated. He added that the talks focused on advancing shared priorities and reaffirmed both leaders’ commitment to deepening their partnership, promoting regional stability, and supporting ongoing development efforts.

Addis Ababa, December 19, 2025 (ENA) —The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has transcended its national borders to become a source of energy and a blessing of light for the entire African continent, according to Kifle Horo, the project’s manager. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has transcended national borders to become a vital source of energy for the African continent, according to Project Manager Kifle Horo. Officially inaugurated on September 9, 2024, by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and attended by various African heads of state, the GERD is now a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s economic strategy.     In an exclusive interview with ENA, Kifle highlighted that the dam is significantly bolstering the national power grid and catalyzing industrial growth. Beyond domestic benefits, he described the project as a "living testament" to the African "can-do" spirit, adding that the dam is already fostering regional integration by supplying energy to neighboring countries, with plans to expand this "blessing of light" further across the continent. Reflecting on the project's symbolic weight, the project manager noted that its completion represents a victory over internal and external pressures.     The success of this endeavor has laid a firm foundation for future mega-projects, he added, noting that the dam was built through both financial investment and profound personal sacrifice. As the largest hydroelectric power plant in Africa, the GERD boasts a generating capacity of 5,150 MW, marking a monumental milestone in the continent’s journey toward energy self-sufficiency.

Addis Ababa, December 19, 2025 (ENA) —Deputy Ambassador of Israel to Ethiopia and the African Union, Tomer Bar-Lavi expressed his profound admiration for Ethiopia's remarkable advancements in wheat production. According to the diplomat, Ethiopia is emerging as a leading wheat producer in Africa. Launched officially in 2019 at the initiative of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Ethiopia’s drive toward self-sufficiency in wheat production has reached notable success. Through the efforts, the East African nation has made a historic shift by producing wheat domestically using irrigation, replacing imports that previously cost up to one billion dollars annually, it was learned. Ethiopia is leading by example, leveraging agricultural technology to enhance food security and reduce poverty across the continent, Bar-Lavi told Pulse of Africa media. The diplomat, attending a film screening on Ethiopia’s wheat advancements in Addis Ababa, emphasized the transformative potential of modern agricultural technology for smallholder farmers. "We've been following this journey for the last few years, how Ethiopia has turned into the leading wheat producer in Africa and really is completely transforming its production of this crop," he stated. He commended the Ethiopian government's significant investments in the sector, which have been pivotal to this success. Bar-Lavi noted that minor technological improvements from seed quality to irrigation and farming methods could exponentially boost agricultural productivity and yields. Bar-Lavi emphasized that the combination of Ethiopia's vast natural resources including productive land and a large workforce with Israeli technological innovation can unlock unprecedented growth. "Ethiopia is blessed with huge amounts of natural resources," he noted, adding that the strategic implementation of technology is the key to maximizing this potential. The deputy ambassador positioned Ethiopia’s achievements as a blueprint for the African continent in its efforts to combat hunger and promote economic growth. He asserted that the current moment represents a critical opportunity for Africa to leverage its resources and manpower. Bar-Lavi emphasized that leveraging existing resources, human capital, and skills, while integrating modern technologies into traditional agricultural practices could significantly reduce poverty across the continent said to the Pulse of Africa, He stressed that even "slight modifications can have a big impact," empowering communities and fostering sustainable development.

Addis Ababa, December 18, 2025 (ENA) —The Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) has launched loan services today that enhance the production and productivity of smallholder farmers and pastoralists.     Speaking at the launching ceremony, Agriculture State Minister, Melese Mekonen, said access to finance for the farmers and pastoralists is crucial to boost production and productivity through transforming the sector. Appreciating the initiative taken by the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia to provide the loans, he stressed that such initiatives would significantly contribute to the effort toward ensuring food sovereignty and enhancing foreign trade.     According to the Melese, Ministry of Agriculture, in collaboration with the National Bank of Ethiopia, Ministry of Finance and other stakeholders, has prepared an Agricultural Finance Roadmap is designed to enable other banks and financial institutions to provide loan for smallholder farmers and pastoralists. CBE Executive Vice President for Corporate Services, Ephrem Mekuria, said the loan services would be provided for those engaged in crop production, animal farming, milk and dairy production, vegetables, fruit and flower cultivation, purchase of agricultural machinery and equipment.     He stated that the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia has been providing loans at low interest rates for large, medium and small agricultural projects for the purchase of fertilizers, agricultural inputs, machinery, among others. The new loan services on the other hand focus on giving loans for individual private small holder farmers and organized farmers as well as pastoralists.

Addis Ababa, December 19, 2025 (ENA) —Sudan’s Deputy Head of Mission to Ethiopia has lauded Ethiopia’s significant strides in food production, describing the achievement as a clear reflection of strong political leadership and the dedication of Ethiopian farmers. During the premiere of a documentary highlighting Ethiopia’s success in wheat production Ambassador Elhafiz Esa Abdullah Adam, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Sudan to Ethiopia, said that food sovereignty is fundamental to national strength. “The documentary shown clearly demonstrates the firm political will of the Ethiopian government,” Ambassador Abdullah said. “However, this success goes beyond government efforts which is equally the result of the hard work and commitment of Ethiopian farmers,” he noted. Speaking to Pulse of Africa, the diplomat stressed that economic power, particularly in agriculture, is as crucial as military capability or political stability. “Producing your own food for your own people is essential,” he noted. He further stated that economic power agriculture is essential for safeguarding national independence and reducing vulnerability to external influence. Ambassador Abdullah underscored that modernizing agricultural practices is no longer optional for Africa. Citing climate change, erratic rainfall, and environmental pressures, he warned that traditional farming methods can no longer meet current challenges. “It is vital to transform the mindset of farmers through training and to equip them with modern agricultural technologies,” he said, adding that innovation would significantly improve both productivity and quality. Addressing broader continental challenges, the ambassador criticized the prevailing global narrative that associates Africa with conflict, famine, and hunger. “When people outside Africa speak about the continent, they often think of crisis and scarcity,” he remarked. “Yet Africa has enormous resources and the potential not only to feed itself, but to help feed the world.” He called on African nations to strengthen cooperation, manage resources responsibly, and work collectively to redefine Africa’s image on the global stage. “The task is not impossible,” he said. “What it requires is strong will. And if we have that will, success is within reach.” Ambassador Abdullah also highlighted the importance of sustainable resource management, particularly in East Africa, where desertification and climate shocks such as El Niño pose growing risks. He urged countries like Ethiopia to pair increased agricultural production with public awareness on responsible resource use. “If resources are misused today, they will be lost tomorrow,” he underlined. Linking environmental sustainability to migration, he noted that drought, instability, and lack of opportunity force many Africans to leave their homes. “Ensuring people can remain in their communities is the responsibility of those who lead and govern our countries,” he said, describing it as a shared continental duty. Ambassador Abdullah issued a strong call for African self-reliance, cautioning against dependence on external actors driven by their own interests. “Those who come from outside pursue their own agendas,” he said. “Africa must clearly define its own interests and work decisively to achieve them. The time to act is now.”

Addis Ababa, December 18, 2025 (ENA) —A documentary film, which depicts the wheat revolution in Ethiopia enabling Ethiopia to cross the threshold into a new era of agricultural sovereignty, was inaugurated today. During the grand premiere of the documentary film, "Ethiopia’s Wheat Transformation," held in the capital, Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute Director-General Mandefro Nigussie noted that the nation has successfully transitioned to a new chapter of growth. The documentary, meticulously crafted by Ethiopian filmmakers based in Los Angeles, California, offers a sweeping visual narrative of Ethiopia’s successful endeavor to modernize the agricultural sector and secure its food future. Focused on the "Wheat Revolution" unfolding across the Oromia, Afar, and Amhara regions, the film captures the profound human spirit driving this change. It weaves together breathtaking landscapes with the intimate stories of farmers embracing cutting-edge technology, tracing the journey of the grain from vast emerald fields to vibrant urban markets. The Director-General noted that Ethiopia remained tethered to foreign wheat imports for decades. However, a bold national strategy — spearheaded by the vision of the current administration, has effectively rewritten that history. "Our success is rooted in the disciplined execution of cluster farming, which has exponentially boosted productivity," Mandefro explained. "By reclaiming acidic soils with lime treatments and transforming marshy highlands through sophisticated drainage technologies, we have unlocked lands once thought unproductive." The expansion of summer irrigation has been a cornerstone of this metamorphosis. By cultivating hundreds of thousands of hectares during the dry season, Ethiopia has not only secured its domestic supply but has now positioned itself as a burgeoning exporter of wheat to the global market. On the occasion, Bill Gates Foundation Advocacy and Communications Deputy Director, Abebe Alemayehu, shared his profound reflections on this journey. "In recent years, Ethiopia has embarked on a magnificent odyssey fueled by resilience and the conviction that a nation’s destiny must be shaped by its own people." Where many predicted a future of dependency, he added, Ethiopia chose a different path—one of innovation and self-reliance. He further emphasized that the transformation is visible in the sheer scale of the land now under cultivation. Wheat farming, once confined to the rain-fed highlands, has descended into the lowlands through massive irrigation projects, utilizing modern inputs to achieve record-breaking yields. International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center at (CIMMYT) representative, Adefris Teklewold lauded the country’s effectiveness in creating new opportunities for smallholder farmers. Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) Program Officer, Ayele Gebre-Amlak, described the film as a window into a "national transition" that transcends mere agriculture. African Development Bank Group Senior Macroeconomist, Admit Zerihun, added that the story is one of leadership and strategic partnership. "This documentary tells a powerful story of vision and national commitment. It shows how Ethiopia turned aspiration into action, proving what is possible when policy is backed by perseverance." The film serves as a vital historical record, intended to inspire the next generation of Ethiopians to view agriculture not just as a means of survival, but as a sophisticated and prestigious pillar of national pride. The premiere drew a distinguished audience, including high-ranking government officials, ambassadors, and development partners.

​​Addis Ababa, December 18, 2025 (ENA) —Preparations are finalized to integrate opal and other mineral products into the modern trading platform of the Ethiopian Commodity Exchange (ECX). In an exclusive interview with the Ethiopian News Agency, ECX Chief Executive Officer Mergia Bayissa said this milestone marks a significant expansion of the Exchange's operational scope. By championing transparency and modernization, he added that the ECX has continued playing a leading role in carrying out efficient trade practices in Ethiopia.     The CEO recalled that the ECX commenced operations with only two commodities: maize and wheat. Over the years, ECX has demonstrated remarkable growth, now hosting a diverse portfolio of 28 agricultural products, including coffee, sesame, pulses, oilseeds, and various spices. Mergia noted that the government’s strategic focus has been instrumental in allowing the introduction of 15 new products into the system after the reform. ‎According to him, these efforts have fortified the ECX’s position as a competitive and highly sought-after trading destination by significantly enhancing its overall institutional effectiveness. The amendment of the Ethiopia Commodity Exchange Proclamation has expanded the institution’s mandate to include non-agricultural commodities, specifically industrial and mineral products. Accordingly, the ECX has worked closely with the Ministry of Mines to bring opal to the formal market. Mergia stated that his institution has completed the design of a dedicated trading system for other minerals beyond opal. The CEO revealed that official trading of these precious resources will commence once the remaining administrative formalities within the Ministry of Mines are finalized. Artisanal and Jewelry Mineral Development Lead Officer, Gera Techane, said collaborative activities have been carried out with the ECX, aiming to modernize the sector and address long-standing bottlenecks in mineral trade.     He stated that joint efforts to resolve market challenges facing opal production are nearing completion, and the imminent launch of this mineral on the exchange is expected to be a transformative step. This initiative will effectively curb illegal trade while ensuring that local producers receive fair value and benefit from their labor.

​​​​​​Addis Ababa, December 18, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s efforts to reclaim its scattered cultural treasures have gained significant momentum with the recent return of a historic shield from the Royal Ethiopian Trust, prominent historian and sociologist Alula Pankhurst said. The country has stepped up its global efforts to repatriate cultural artifacts looted during the 1868 Maqdala campaign and through other illicit means. Alula, who teaches history and sociology at Addis Ababa University, told ENA that this recovery marks a significant milestone, regarded by heritage advocates as both a symbolic and practical breakthrough in the long-standing restitution campaign. Progress has accelerated through strengthened collaboration with institutional and civil society partners in the United Kingdom and Italy, he added. Growing dialogue and coordinated action are replacing previous resistance and delays, enabling the opening of collections, tracing of provenance, and clearer pathways for the return of artifacts. The campaign targets major collections seized during the 1868 Maqdala campaign, the Italian occupation, and decades of illicit trafficking. Focused on repositories in Britain, Italy, Europe, and North America, the renewed drive is led by the Association for the Return of Maqdala Ethiopian Treasures (AFROMET), working closely with national heritage institutions and government agencies. He also described the effort to the Ethiopian News Agency as a “sustained and multifaceted campaign.” He highlighted the coordinated involvement of government bodies, international organizations, and committed individuals. “These initiatives aim to consolidate and celebrate Ethiopia’s rich historical and artistic legacy within its borders, providing invaluable resources for national pride, education, and tourism,” Pankhurst said. He identified the Institute of Ethiopian Studies (IES) as a central force in the movement. The IES, home to the world’s largest collection of Ethiopian ethnographic and religious artifacts, collaborates closely with the National Museum to safeguard the nation’s heritage, he added. According to him, the government’s restitution drive is increasingly tied to economic development. The active role of the Minister of Tourism reflects this shift, framing returned cultural artifacts as vital assets for national growth, he said, adding that recent achievements underscore this progress. He also emphasized that the reclaimed treasures has strengthened by forming partnerships in the UK, Italy, Europe and North America resulted a rise in private donors motivated by what they call an “ethical imperative” to restore cultural items to their rightful homeland. For Pankhurst, this mission is deeply personal and intergenerational as his grandmother defended Ethiopia during the Italian invasion, and his father was a founding advocate of AFROMET. He continues the work today through the National Heritage Restitution Committee and the Society of Friends of the IES. Despite recent gains, Pankhurst cautions the journey is far from over. “A rich heritage of Ethiopian artifacts remains abroad, underscoring the necessity for continued and expanded initiatives,” he said, envisioning a future where Ethiopia presents a full and authentic account of its history to the world. The country has been working intensively to return its various artifacts looted in 1868, during the reign of Emperor Tewodros II following the battle of Maqdala at northern Ethiopia.

​​​​​​Addis Ababa, December 18, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopian parliamentarians say the strategic partnership with India could serve as a powerful platform to advance the interests of developing nations while leveraging the continental roles of both countries. Following Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to Ethiopia and his address to the House of People’s Representatives on Wednesday, the Ethiopian News Agency spoke with MPs who shared their perspectives on the growing Ethiopia–India partnership. As two historic nations strengthen their bilateral ties, Ethiopia and India have formally elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership, leaders announced. The move is widely seen as a milestone, opening a new chapter of deeper cooperation and shared progress between the two countries. Notably, Indian Prime Minister Modi’s address to the Ethiopian parliament drew international attention, amplifying Global South diplomacy beyond the scope of bilateral talks. In his speech, he emphasized the commitment of both countries to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors based on the principle of mutual benefit. Nejat Girma, a member of parliament, highlighted the long-standing diplomatic ties and strong people-to-people relations between Ethiopia and India. She also emphasized the need to further strengthen the partnership to promote shared prosperity. Fathi Mahdi, another parliament member, described Ethiopia and India as ancient civilizations whose futures are shaped by their own choices. Fathi noted that elevating bilateral relations to a strategic partnership would foster a resilient and enduring friendship, regardless of shifting global circumstances. In this regard, he added, Prime Minister Modi’s visit reflects the growing strength of the relationship. The partnership would be particularly valuable in enabling the two countries to support each other on international platforms, another MP Ambassador Tofiq Abdullahi underscored.   Speaker of the House of Peoples' Representatives (HoPR), Tagesse Chafo, stated that Ethiopia and India are working diligently to advance the interests of developing countries by leveraging their continental influence. It is worth recalling that Ethiopia and India established official diplomatic relations in 1948, and their current strategic partnership has created new avenues for the shared prosperity of both nations.

Addis Ababa, December 17, 2025 (ENA) —The airline’s commitment to maintaining its strong reputation and enhancing its international competitiveness, according to Lieutenant General Yilma Merdasa, Commander of the Ethiopian Air Force and Board Chairman of Ethiopian Airlines Group.     The Ethiopian Airlines Group recently inaugurated a new premium lounge at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, representing a significant investment of over 16 million USD with a capacity to accommodate up to 1,000 passengers simultaneously, it is now the largest lounge at the airport. The lounge is accessible to Platinum and Gold members of the Ethiopian ShebaMiles loyalty program, Star Alliance Gold members, and eligible frequent flyer members from partner airlines.     This latest facility strengthens Ethiopian Airlines’ efforts to provide world-class airport experiences to travelers passing through Addis Ababa from more than 145 destinations worldwide. At the inauguration, Lieutenant General Yilma Merdasa emphasized the government’s focus on developing skilled human resources and infrastructure to support excellent service delivery and elevate international competitiveness. He stated, “The continued infrastructure development effort will enable the airline to realize its ambitious goals.”     He added that the new premium lounge “is a showcase for the airline’s commitment to providing remarkable service.” Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew on his part described the lounge opening as “a transformative step in our mission to elevate every part of the travel experience.”     He emphasized that by combining comfort, convenience, and luxury, the facility will take travel through Addis Ababa Bole International Airport to a new level. “This move reflects our unwavering commitment to deliver end-to-end, world-class hospitality to our customers,” he said. Transport and Logistics State Minister Dange Boru praised the airline’s dedication to service excellence and infrastructure expansion. He remarked that Ethiopian Airlines’ continued efforts would not only uphold its status as Africa’s leading airline but also promote Ethiopia’s image on the global stage.

Addis Ababa, December 17, 2025 (ENA) —Recently accredited ambassadors from several countries have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their respective nations’ bilateral relations with Ethiopia across multiple sectors. Speaking to the Ethiopian News Agency, the envoys of Indonesia, Switzerland, Sweden, and Canada expressed their dedication to expanding cooperation in agriculture, trade, development, peace, and multilateral diplomacy. Indonesia’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Faizal Chery Sidharta, highlighted expanding agricultural cooperation, including cattle artificial insemination, as a foundation for broader engagement in agri-processing and aquaculture. He emphasized Ethiopia’s strategic role in boosting economic ties between Africa and Southeast Asia and noted growing Indonesian interest in tourism and business, aided by direct flights between Jakarta and Addis Ababa. “We want to move beyond our shared history of anti-colonial struggle into mutually beneficial development cooperation,” he said, emphasizing the importance of business-to-business ties. He highlighted that strengthening links between chambers of commerce, the Ethiopian Investment Commission, and Indonesian institutions would further deepen ties between the two countries. On her part, Switzerland’s Ambassador, Riccarda Chanda, outlined plans to make Addis Ababa a regional hub for health, food systems, migration, and humanitarian cooperation. She emphasized that the city’s role as a multilateral capital, hosting the African Union and major UN institutions, gives it significant strategic leverage. Sweden’s Ambassador, Magnus Lennartsson, praised the countries’ long-standing relationship, with 80 years of diplomatic ties next year. “Our business ties go back more than 100 years, but the economy here is growing very rapidly. There are strong economic reforms going on, and we are optimistic about future commercial relations,” he said. Sweden and Ethiopia share strong alignment on multilateralism, peace and security, and development cooperation, the ambassador noted. He highlighted opportunities for Swedish companies amid Ethiopia’s rapid economic growth and reforms, as well as strong people-to-people connections through the Ethiopian diaspora in Sweden. He also renewed his country’s commitment to support Ethiopia’s national dialogue, transitional justice process, and broader development agenda. Canada’s Ambassador, Nicolas Simard, said Canada aims to expand collaboration into economic sectors such as aerospace, mining, and education, building on existing development and peace partnerships. “We want to build on this strong foundation to develop new areas of economic partnership with Ethiopia,” he said. Observers say the renewed commitments from these nations underscore Ethiopia’s rising role as a hub for regional cooperation, trade, and sustainable development.

Addis Ababa, December 17, 2025 (ENA) —India and Ethiopia will elevate their bilateral relationships to the level of strategic partnership to unleash potentials of the two nations, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. In his address to the joint session of the House of People's Representatives and the House of Federation today, PM Modi said Ethiopia and India are the cradles of ancient civilizations walking confidently into the future together. Peoples of the two nations traded cotton, coffee, and gold, among other items, across the Indian Ocean. Moreover, they exchanged idea, stories and ways of life, he noted. The two nations were also trade centers of the world and bridges between civilizations. According to him, peoples of the two nations had already started writing a new chapter together before formal diplomatic relations began. “Our formal diplomatic relations begins soon after India become independent. Even before embassies were set up, our people had already started writing a new chapter together.” Currently, Ethiopia and India are expanding their bilateral relation in socioeconomic and political spheres. “Today, Indian companies are among the largest foreign investors in Ethiopia. They have invested more than 5 billion US dollars in diverse sectors like textiles, manufacturing, agriculture, health, and more. They have created more than 75,000 local jobs. Our partnership has unlocked more potential,” he stated. Furthermore, leaders of the two countries have taken a big step forward and decided to elevate the bilateral relations of the two countries to the level of strategic partnership. PM Modi said, “We decided to elevate the bilateral relations of the two countries to the level of strategic partnership. This will unleash the potentials of our economy through cooperation in technology, innovation, mining, sustainable and green energy." This, he stressed, will secure the future of the peoples of the two countries by cooperating in food security, health security, and capacity building. "We will also enhance our trade and investment cooperation as well as on defense and security matters,” the PM said. He finally underlined that Ethiopia and India will walk, build, and succeed together as equals, partners and friends.

Addis Ababa, December 17, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia and India are poised to build modern and capable states for the next generation as this shared outlook opens wide opportunities, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed noted. Addressing the state banquet held in honor of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, PM Abiy said the visit of India's Prime Minister Modi is beyond a diplomatic occasion. It is a meeting of two nations that understand how careful planning and bold ideas can fuel transformation, he added. “Our history is long, our bonds are deep but the most important chapter of our journey lies ahead,” he stated, stressing that Ethiopia, like India, believes in building strength at home and engaging the world while safeguarding its dependence. PM Abiy also noted that “Prime Minister Modi’s vision of self-reliant India anchored in practical governance and broad strategic partnership speaks directly to us and resonates with our philosophy of Medemer, the belief that when we are together, we multiply our strength.” According to him, Ethiopia and India are poised to build modern and capable states for the next generation as this shared outlook opens wide opportunities. Factories can create dignified jobs, digital platforms can reach communities across the countries, clean energy can power industries and transform farms, Abiy said. Furthermore, entrepreneurs from Addis Ababa to Bengaluru can build global competitive companies where young people are ready to innovate, to lead and to shape the future. “Ethiopia and India share more than interests, we share values, a commitment to sovereignty, human dignity and development that lifts all people. Our partnership is strategic, long-term and rooted in mutual respect.” When Ethiopia and India advance with shared ambition, they show the world the true potential of the Global South, Abiy underscored. “Progress grounded in dignity, development anchored in sovereignty and nations shaping their own future with purpose, vision, and lasting impact.”

Addis Ababa, December 16, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia and India have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Africa’s voice in global decision-making, said Sudhakar Dalela, Secretary (Economic Relations) in India’s Ministry of External Affairs. Speaking to the media after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Ethiopia, Dalela highlighted the warm reception by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and described the discussions as “productive and wide-ranging,” covering the full spectrum of the bilateral partnership. The two leaders held one-to-one talks, followed by delegation-level discussions, round-table meetings, and a state banquet hosted by Prime Minister Abiy. Both nations agreed to deepen collaboration in trade and investment, agriculture, renewable energy, health, education, skill development, defence, mining, artificial intelligence, and digital public infrastructure. On international cooperation, Dalela said, “We both believe, India and Ethiopia, that international institutions must reflect contemporary global realities rather than outdated structures.” He added that India supports Africa’s rightful place in the UN Security Council and a stronger role for the continent in global financial institutions, while promoting African perspectives on climate adaptation, trade, technology, and development. Ethiopia, a key African Union member and recent BRICS partner, will coordinate closely with India across multilateral forums. Dalela noted that India will host BRICS activities starting January next year and that PM Modi has invited Prime Minister Abiy to participate in the upcoming BRICS summit. Speaking on longstanding ties, India and Ethiopia share a long history of friendly relations, underpinned by people-to-people ties, growing trade, and development cooperation. Indian companies are active in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, textiles, and education in Ethiopia. The visit marks India’s continued engagement with Africa, working with partners like Ethiopia to push for reforms in global governance and deepen cooperation through platforms such as BRICS.

Addis Ababa, December 16, 2025 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has expressed gratitude to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his visit to Ethiopia, announcing that Ethiopia and India have elevated their relations to a strategic partnership. In his social media post, Prime Minister Abiy also highlighted PM Modi’s visit to Ethiopia as a milestone that opens a new chapter of deeper cooperation and shared progress between the two countries. “Thank you, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for your visit to Ethiopia and for your continued efforts to strengthen India–Ethiopia relations. Our elevated ties to a strategic level mark an important milestone and opens a new chapter of deeper cooperation and shared progress between our two countries,” PM Abiy revealed. Ethiopia and India have reaffirmed their growing strategic partnership following high-level talks between the two leaders here in Addis Ababa. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed yesterday welcomed PM Modi at the National Palace during an official welcoming ceremony, followed by a tour of the Palace Museum. The visit underscored the strong and longstanding ties between the two nations. The two leaders held a productive tête-à-tête meeting, which was followed by a bilateral session involving their respective delegations. Discussions focused on exploring renewed avenues of cooperation that reflect the expanding partnership and shared priorities of Ethiopia and India. During the visit, the two Prime Ministers also presided over the exchange of key bilateral agreements.

Ethiopia and Russia have taken a significant step toward developing Ethiopia’s first nuclear power plant after signing a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) in Moscow. The agreement was signed by Ethiopian Nuclear Energy Commission Commissioner Sandokan Debebe and ROSATOM Energy Projects Director General Andrey Rozhdestvin during their first official meeting. The NDA forms part of a broader bilateral framework aimed at advancing nuclear energy development in Ethiopia, marking a major milestone in the country’s long-term energy and industrial development strategy. Discussions also include the presentation of a Road Map aligned with the Comprehensive Action Plan signed in September 2025 during World Atomic Week in Moscow. The meeting, held from 15–19 December 2025, builds on earlier high-level talks between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Russian President Vladimir Putin, who agreed to strengthen cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear technology as a reliable energy source for Ethiopia.