Ethiopia, Netherlands Strengthen Economic Ties as 100-Year Partnership Nears

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.