Finland Emphasizes Investment, Digitalization as EU–Ethiopia Ties Evolve

Addis Ababa, April 24, 2026 (ENA) —Finland’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Sinikka Antila, said the partnership between the European Union and Ethiopia is undergoing a significant shift from traditional development cooperation toward increased investment and private sector engagement.

In an exclusive interview with ENA at the EU–Ethiopia Business Forum 2026, held under the theme “Unlocking the Global Gateway Potential,” the ambassador noted that Finland views the platform as critical for advancing this transition.

“We have had development cooperation for many years, but now we are diversifying into business partnerships and investments,” she said. “That is why, for the Embassy of Finland, this business forum is very important.”

Antila highlighted the participation of leading Finnish companies, including Nokia and Vaisala, as a reflection of growing economic engagement.

“Nokia is a strategic partner for Safaricom, and digitalization is a very important area,” she stated. “It is also a key priority under the Global Gateway between Europe and Africa, and we want to be part of this.”

The ambassador also pointed to ongoing cooperation in climate and meteorological technology, noting that Vaisala, in collaboration with Finnish partners and Ethiopia’s meteorological institutions, is implementing advanced weather radar systems in the country.

“These are concrete examples of how technology partnerships can support development,” she said, adding that digitalization and emerging technologies offer vast potential for Ethiopia’s future growth.

“For a country of this size, digitalization is essential to connect people and services,” she said. “With your ambitions in areas like artificial intelligence, the opportunities are significant.”

The ambassador further highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms, describing them as a crucial step toward opening the economy and enhancing competitiveness.

“You have started historic economic reforms, including foreign exchange measures. These are very important steps,” she said. “We want to support these efforts so that they bring predictability and confidence to the private sector.”

The ambassador reaffirmed Finland’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s development through innovation, investment, and strengthened economic cooperation.

Regarding Ethiopia’s progress in implementing AfCFTA, Antila underscored the importance of continental economic integration, welcoming the country’s progress in implementing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“I was very happy to hear that Ethiopia is advancing and already trading under the AfCFTA framework,” she said. “This is very important for economic growth and for creating jobs, especially for the youth.”

She added that European companies already operating in Ethiopia can play a key role in promoting the country as an attractive investment destination.