PM Abiy’s European Tour: A Strategic Diplomatic Endeavor
Paris: For the past seven years, Ethiopia has been committed to strengthening its bilateral and multilateral ties with the global community. This reform-oriented period has seen a marked rise in Ethiopia’s engagement with international partners, underpinned by a renewed focus on economic transformation and a proactive foreign policy.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, as part of this overarching national strategy for foreign relations and cooperation, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed recently led a high-level Ethiopian delegation on working visits to France, the Vatican, and Italy, with the goal of bolstering Ethiopia’s ties with these countries.
During his trip to France, PM Abiy and his delegation were warmly welcomed by President Emmanuel Macron at the ‚¬°lys©e Palace for discussions focused on the progress made in executing the agreements signed during President Macron’s visit to Ethiopia in December 2024. While the two countries have long enjoyed strong ties and cooperation in areas such as defense and security, cultural preservation, and education, their discussions further explored opportunities to enhance economic collaboration.
The exchanges between Ethiopia and France since 2019 have greatly enhanced their bilateral relations. In October 2018, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed traveled to France, where he held discussions that laid the groundwork for future agreements in defense and cultural cooperation. In March 2019, French President Emmanuel Macron made his first official visit to Ethiopia, during which he and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed signed several cooperation agreements.
In February 2023, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited France again, focusing on enhancing trade and investment ties. In December 2024, President Macron returned to Ethiopia, reaffirming France’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s economic reforms and debt restructuring efforts. Their latest meeting centered on progress made in implementing previous agreements and exploring potential avenues for strengthening economic cooperation.
In general, the relationship between France and Ethiopia over the past seven years has evolved into a multifaceted and robust partnership, strengthened by the active engagement of both leaders. This partnership is essential for enhancing trade and investment cooperation, a crucial element for Ethiopia’s economic growth. It also plays a vital role in establishing a favorable environment for collaboration on global platforms.
During his visit to Paris, Prime Minister Abiy explored various industries, focusing primarily on technology and Artificial Intelligence. He visited Station F, the largest startup facility in the world, and Nokia France headquarters, where he gained insights into 5G and 6G technologies. His visit to Thales Research and Technology France highlighted the importance of international engagement in accelerating Ethiopia’s digital transformation.
Preservation of historical heritages was another component of Abiy’s visit to France. He visited the restored Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, highlighting the value of cultural heritage and the importance of its preservation. This visit offers important lessons for Ethiopia, a nation endowed with unparalleled historical and cultural treasures.
Italy was another European destination for Prime Minister Abiy and his delegation. Upon arriving in Italy, the premier met with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican, discussing bilateral and multilateral matters, including global peace and education access.
In Rome, Prime Minister Abiy was received by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni for bilateral talks aimed at deepening the longstanding ties between Ethiopia and Italy. They explored new avenues for collaboration through increased investments and at the multilateral level.
Since taking office, Prime Minister Abiy has engaged with successive Italian leaders to strengthen bilateral relations. Italy remains a key partner in Ethiopia’s development, with longstanding support in industrialization and critical sectors such as health, agriculture, and cultural heritage.
During his visit to Italy, PM Abiy also met with Pietro Salini, CEO of Webuild Group, to discuss the progress of national mega projects. With the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam nearing completion, Webuild’s partnership has been instrumental in advancing Ethiopia’s national objectives.
In summary, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s European tour was a strategic diplomatic undertaking. His visits underscored Ethiopia’s ambition to forge partnerships and secure global support for its development goals. By harnessing global support and best practices, Ethiopia can further advance its economic development initiatives while also promoting cultural preservation and sustainable tourism development.