World Bank Operations Chief Commends Ethiopia’s Reform Progress

Washington: World Bank Managing Director for Operations Anna Bjerde has praised Ethiopia's significant achievements under its comprehensive reform agenda, highlighting substantial progress across multiple economic indicators. Ethiopian Finance Minister Ahmed Shide met with Bjerde in Washington to discuss deepening strategic partnerships on priority development initiatives, ongoing structural reforms, and innovative financing solutions. According to Ethiopian News Agency, during the meeting, Minister Ahmed acknowledged the World Bank's crucial technical and financial contributions to Ethiopia's transformation agenda. He emphasized the institution's instrumental role in economic modernization efforts, productivity enhancement, and private sector development initiatives aimed at job creation and improved living standards nationwide. The Minister highlighted the World Bank's sustained partnership with Ethiopia, noting the institution's substantial commitment of over USD 15 billion in active projects spanning cr itical development sectors. He stressed that continued World Bank engagement remains essential for advancing employment generation, sustainable infrastructure development, and human capital strengthening initiatives. Bjerde recognized the Ethiopian government's remarkable progress under its reform program, citing notable achievements including significant inflation reduction, substantial export growth, enhanced domestic revenue mobilization that strengthens fiscal stability, and improved business climate conditions. The World Bank Operations Chief urged the government to maintain robust implementation momentum for key reform measures. The discussions concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to enhanced collaboration. The officials emphasized the continued importance of World Bank and International Monetary Fund support for successfully implementing Ethiopia's reform agenda, which targets accelerated inclusive growth and sustainable development outcomes.