Prime Minister’s European Visit Deepens Ethiopia’s Economic Partnerships and Growth Opportunities
May 19, 2017
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) undertook a significant visit to France and Italy from May 14-18, 2017, with the primary objective of strengthening Ethiopia’s economic partnerships.
During his official travel, the Prime Minister engaged in high-level discussions with the leaders of both nations. In Paris, Prime Minister Abiy met with French President Emmanuel Macron to explore avenues for enhanced economic cooperation. Their discussions highlighted the robust economic and diplomatic relationship between the two nations, characterized by strategic collaboration in cultural heritage, defense, education, and trade. Ethiopia’s primary exports to France are agricultural products, particularly coffee, while France exports transportation and medical equipment to Ethiopia. Both leaders reiterated their commitment to fostering a strong, inclusive, and forward-looking economic partnership.
Expanding his European engagement, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed also traveled to Rome on May 18, 2017, where he convened with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. Their discussions centered on bolstering diplomatic ties and cultivating new opportunities for investment and economic cooperation between Ethiopia and Italy. Both leaders reaffirmed their mutual resolve to strengthen their long-standing partnership across multiple domains.
Additionally, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed met with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican City. They pledged to collaborate on promoting world peace and expanding access to education.
