Addis ababa: The Ministry of Finance and the European Union (EU) have signed a 90 million Euro financing agreement for the Annual Action Plan (AAP)-2025.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the agreement acknowledges Ethiopia's unique context, specifically the ongoing deep economic reforms and its post-conflict recovery and reconstruction needs. The agreement was formalized today in Addis Ababa and signed by Semereta Sewasew, State Minister at the Ministry of Finance, and Sofie From-Emmesberger, EU Ambassador to Ethiopia.
This 90 million Euro initiative marks a renewed phase of cooperation between the two parties. Semereta Sewasew highlighted the profound significance of the financing agreement, saying it represents another milestone in the long-standing partnership between Ethiopia and the European Union. She further stated that the EU and its Member States offer vast potential to further expand this relationship.
By leveraging the Multiannual Indicative Programme (MIP) and the Global Gateway Initiative, and working closely under the Team Europe approach, she expressed confidence in unlocking new investment opportunities and achieving mutually beneficial outcomes. The programs under AAP-2025 are designed to complement key national initiatives, aligning well with the Government of Ethiopia's priorities.
Sofie From-Emmesberger stated that through the Team Europe approach, the Annual Action Plan aligns with Ethiopia's Home-Grown Economic Reform Agenda while contributing to the broader Global Gateway Strategy. It emphasizes initiatives such as strengthening land governance, enhancing nature conservation, empowering women, and supporting migrant integration.
The AAP-2025 aligns with Ethiopia's Green Legacy Initiative, promoting biodiversity conservation and the building of a climate-resilient green economy. Alongside the signing of the financing agreement, a Public-Private Dialogue (PPD) took place with European businesses operating in Ethiopia, addressing challenges faced in the business environment.
Ethiopian Investment Commissioner, Zeleke Temesgen, noted that the PPD helped identify and address bottlenecks faced by European businesses, enhance the investment climate, and chart new avenues of cooperation. He added that establishing a consistent framework for dialogue between the Ethiopian government and EU businesses is essential to track the progress of agreed actions.
The EU Delegation to Ethiopia expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of Ethiopian ministries, agencies, implementing partners, and dedicated EU Delegation and Member State teams in preparing the Annual Action Plan. Together, the EU and Ethiopia are translating partnerships into impactful actions for peace, prosperity, and the wellbeing of their people.