Ethiopia, Russia Hold Talks on Advancing Agricultural Modernization

Addis Ababa, November 21, 2025 (ENA) - Ethiopia and Russia have opened a new chapter in agricultural cooperation following a high-level meeting held in Addis Ababa.

Minister of Agriculture Addisu Arega met Russian Deputy Minister of Agriculture Andrey Razin and his delegation on the margins of an international conference on food sovereignty in Africa.

The talks centered on technical support and joint initiatives to develop improved seed varieties that would bolster Ethiopia’s pursuit of food sovereignty.

“Agriculture remains a top priority in our development agenda,” the Minister said in a social media update, noting the longstanding ties between the two countries.

According to him, Russia agreed to extend substantial technical assistance and expressed readiness to move ahead with a bilateral cooperation agreement.

The two sides reached common ground on launching joint work on improved seed varieties, with particular attention to sunflower, a key crop in Ethiopia’s plan to become self-sufficient in edible oil.

They also agreed to encourage private investment in agricultural research, promote scientific innovation, and broaden educational opportunities in agricultural research fields.

Russia signaled willingness to share its experience in achieving food sovereignty, offering lessons that could support Ethiopia’s ongoing reforms.

The meeting took place during a conference hosted by the Russian Federation in Addis Ababa, which focused on strengthening regional cooperation and building climate-resilient agricultural systems.