Austria-Ethiopia Economic Partnership Growing - Minister Reisinger

Addis Ababa, April 20, 2026 (ENA) —Federal Minister for European and International Affairs of the Republic of Austria, Beate Meinl-Reisinger, stated that Austria–Ethiopia business relations are growing, anchored in over 120 years of diplomatic ties.

The EU–Ethiopia Business Forum 2026 officially opened in Addis Ababa under the theme “Unlocking the Global Gateway Potential,” bringing together policymakers, investors, and business leaders to deepen economic cooperation between Europe and Ethiopia. Austrian companies are also participating in the forum.

Speaking at the forum, Reisinger said that Austrian companies are increasingly active in Ethiopia, introducing innovative technologies across sectors such as medical manufacturing, 3D printing, weather monitoring systems, and precision agriculture.

She expressed that her country is interested in bolstering business relationships between the two countries and that Austrian investors are keen to engage in various sectors in Ethiopia.

According to her, the presence of leading Austrian firms participating in the forum underscores this interest.

Meinl-Reisinger also pointed to strong collaboration in the science and education sectors, including partnerships with renowned technical institutions, particularly in mining and applied technologies.

Underscoring Austria’s strategic direction, she stated that these engagements align with Austria’s new Africa strategy, currently under development in close consultation with African partners.

Meinl-Reisinger reaffirmed Austria’s readiness to play an active role in advancing cooperation with Ethiopia, noting that European and Austrian businesses are eager to expand their presence in the country while contributing to its continued economic transformation.

In related development, she mentioned that she has engaged with more than 35 African foreign ministers, both on the continent and in Vienna, and convened working meetings with African ambassadors to shape a more inclusive and forward-looking framework.

According to the Minister, the new approach marks a shift away from the traditional donor–recipient model toward a mutually beneficial partnership based on investment, trade, and shared growth.

She stressed that the modernized framework prioritizes peace and security, economic cooperation, mobility and migration, people-to-people ties, and climate action.

Highlighting concrete steps in climate cooperation, Meinl-Reisinger announced ongoing efforts to establish five regional sustainable energy and resilience centers across Africa, supported by initial Austrian funding.

She noted that this initiative reflects Austria’s strong position in green technology and its commitment to supporting sustainable development on the continent.

The Minister further emphasized that initiatives such as the European Union’s Global Gateway serve as a critical platform for unlocking investment opportunities and strengthening partnerships between European and Ethiopian businesses.

She added that these commercial ties are becoming increasingly vital in navigating today’s complex global economic landscape.