Yaound©: Ethiopia and the World Bank have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaboration on trade facilitation, infrastructure development, and accelerating the country's accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). Trade and Regional Integration Minister Kassahun Gofe announced the development following bilateral talks held in Yaound© with World Bank Vice President for Eastern and Southern Africa Ndiam© Diop.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Kassahun stated that the discussions aimed at enhancing cooperation in Ethiopia's trade sector, building quality infrastructure, and advancing the country's membership in the WTO. The minister noted that both sides reviewed progress on key initiatives designed to streamline trade processes and enhance competitiveness.
These initiatives include the implementation of one-stop service systems, the construction of modern livestock trade centers under the DRIVE project, and the development of the National Quality Infrastructure Laboratory Center. Kassahun mentioned that the two parties agreed to scale up collaboration to deliver stronger results in priority areas.
He further highlighted the role of emerging programs in advancing Ethiopia's global trade integration. The BOOST project, for instance, is expected to accelerate Ethiopia's WTO accession, expand engagement under the African Continental Free Trade Area, and enhance the country's competitiveness in international markets.
Kassahun emphasized that increased private sector participation will be central to sustaining economic growth. He stated that future cooperation will focus on strengthening private sector engagement and ensuring that citizens benefit from these initiatives. The discussions also underscored the importance of building institutional capacity and modernizing trade systems as part of Ethiopia's broader economic transformation agenda.