Ethiopia Calls for Timely Debt Relief to Unlock Sustainable Growth

Addis Ababa, October 14, 2026 (ENA)— Governor of National Bank of Ethiopia, Eyob Tekalign has called for timely debt relief, stronger creditor coordination and credible macroeconomic reforms to help countries overcome debt distress and restore sustainable economic growth.

Eyob delivered the keynote address at a high-level roundtable titled “Life After Debt: How Can Countries Recover and Grow Post-Crises?” organized by the Finance for Development Lab on the sidelines of the 2026 IMF–World Bank Group Annual Meetings.

Drawing on Ethiopia’s experience, the Governor emphasized that resolving debt distress is only the first step toward economic recovery.

 

 He stressed the need to translate debt relief into renewed investment, stronger economic resilience and sustainable growth.

The governor also underscored the importance of ensuring that debt restructuring is timely and coordinated, enabling countries to restore economic stability and redirect resources toward productive investment and development priorities.

Looking beyond immediate debt challenges, Eyob called for a more responsive international financial architecture that enables developing countries to move beyond debt distress and secure sustainable financing for their long-term development.

 

He reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to building a more resilient, competitive and investment-driven economy, highlighting the importance of sustained reforms in strengthening the country’s economic prospects.