Ethiopia and the United States Strengthen Bilateral Relations through Reforms and Investment

On January 20, 2018, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PHD) received a courtesy visit from U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher T. Landau, who was accompanied by General Dagvin Li Anderson, Commander of U.S. Africa Command. The meeting highlighted the significance of ongoing collaboration and mutual respect between Ethiopia and the United States.

In a separate high-level engagement, Ethiopia’s Finance Minister Ahmed Shide convened with Deputy Secretary Landau to discuss Ethiopia’s macroeconomic reform initiatives, investment prospects, and the enhancement of bilateral ties. Minister Shide was joined by Planning and Development Minister Dr. Fitsum Assefa and Governor of the National Bank of Ethiopia, Dr. Eyob Tekalign.

During the discussions, Minister Shide underscored Ethiopia’s reform agenda, emphasizing notable strides in stabilizing the economy and creating a more conducive environment for investment. He pointed out that these reforms have opened up competitive opportunities across various vital sectors and acknowledged U.S. support in Ethiopia’s health sector and broader development efforts through multilateral institutions.

The conversation also covered Ethiopia’s ambitious New International Airport Project, which the Minister described as crucial for fostering economic growth, regional connectivity, and trade facilitation. He called on U.S. financial institutions and contractors to participate actively in the project.

Deputy Secretary Landau praised Ethiopia’s reform progress and expressed keen interest in expanding U.S. business engagement in the country.

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the partnership, promoting private sector involvement, and advancing sustainable economic development through continued cooperation.