Ethiopia, Italy Engage on Strategic Infrastructure Cooperation

Addis Ababa, March 18, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia and Italy have engaged on strategic cooperation aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation and accelerating priority infrastructure projects.

An Ethiopian delegation led by Finance Minister Ahmed Shide has held high level consultations in Rome with Italy’s Mattei Plan Task Force today. 

 The discussions centered on flagship initiatives critical to Ethiopia’s development agenda, including the ongoing Koysha Hydropower Project and the planned Bishoftu International Airport Development Project.

 

 According to Ministry of Finance, the discussion was productive as both show commitment to advancing strategic investments that support sustainable economic growth.

 These projects are expected to play a transformative role in enhancing Ethiopia’s energy capacity and aviation infrastructure, while supporting sustainable economic growth.

 The Italian side reaffirmed its strong commitment under the Mattei Plan to support strategic partnerships with African countries, including Ethiopia, through innovative financing mechanisms and strengthened public-private collaboration.

 

 The Task Force comprises senior representatives from the Italian Ministry of Economy and Finance, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, as well as leading Italian financial institutions and private sector actors, including SACE, Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP), and Webuild.

 During the consultations, both sides exchanged views on financing arrangements for the Koysha Hydropower Project, including ongoing efforts to mobilize additional resources and optimize financing structures.

 Discussions also covered potential financing modalities for the Bishoftu Airport Development Project, with a focus on leveraging blended finance instruments and fostering private sector participation.

 

 The Ethiopian delegation underscored the importance of these projects in supporting the country’s macroeconomic reform agenda and long-term development priorities, while expressing appreciation for Italy’s continued partnership and support.

 Both sides agreed to maintain close engagement and technical collaboration to accelerate progress on the identified projects and translate shared commitments into concrete outcomes.