Ethiopia-Europe Partnership in Critical Minerals Dev't Benefits Both, Says IFA Exec Director

Addis Ababa, November 3, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia’s critical minerals and European expertise, technology, investment, and training can drive mutual growth, deepen economic ties, and create lasting institutional collaboration, Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA) Executive Director Abdiwasa Abdilahi said.

Speaking at a policy dialogue held to bolster strategic cooperation on critical raw minerals at the Institute today, the Executive Director stressed the strategic importance of this alliance.

According to him, the cooperation between Ethiopia and the European Union becomes particularly relevant at this juncture.

Stressing the immense value of shared knowledge, Abdiwasa noted that European Union's valuable experience in geological research, advanced technologies and professional training offers important opportunities for knowledge exchange and institutional collaborations.

 “By bringing together Ethiopia's rich resource base with European expertise, technology and investment, both sides can generate tangible benefits and strengthen their economic relations,” the Executive Director said.

 Echoing this vision, EU Delegation Green Deal Team Leader Julia Walschebauer highlighted Ethiopia's critical mineral reserves, robust renewable energy capacity, and commitment to a clean economy.

Walschebauer noted that “this gives Ethiopia a distinctive role in the wider green transition and creates a strong basis for deeper cooperation with the European Union”.

 

Praising Ethiopia’s unique position in the global shift toward sustainability, the EU Delegation Green Deal Team Leader affirmed Europe's long-term commitment.

“The European Union stands ready to continue engaging with Ethiopia in the spirit of partnerships, listening and practical cooperation.”

 For his part, Ministry of Foreign Affairs Political and Economic Diplomacy Affairs Advisor, Workalemahu Desta said the mining sector serves as a fundamental driver for Ethiopia’s economic diversification, job creation, and foreign exchange generation.

 

“Our economic diplomacy therefore focuses on attracting European companies to invest in the mineral sector in Ethiopia,” he added.

 Pointing to the country's strategic location, expanding domestic market, and continuous reforms, the Advisor concluded with a direct call to action: “We therefore encourage European companies and investors to explore the opportunities available in the Ethiopian mining sector and establish partnerships with Ethiopian public and private sectors.”