Ethiopia stands firm in championing Africa’s trade and investment agenda

Addis Ababa, July 21, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s enduring commitment to Africa’s economic integration, investment, and shared prosperity took center stage today at the Third Africa Trade and Investment Summit, currently underway in Addis Ababa.

Opening the summit, State Minister of Trade and Regional Integration Abdulhakim Mulu emphasized that Africa’s future lies in deeper economic cooperation. “Ethiopia’s commitment to advancing trade integration, investment, and prosperity across the continent is unwavering,” he said.

Co-organized by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration (MoTRI) and the Investment Center of Africa (ICA), the summit aims to strengthen regional trade and unlock investment opportunities that drive sustainable development.

State Minister Abdulhakim noted that advancing trade and investment among African countries will not only enhance market connectivity but also harness the continent’s industrial capacity, boost innovation, and generate jobs for its growing population.

He stressed that the summit is expected to serve as a catalyst for forging new strategic partnerships, expanding cross-border trade, and tapping into emerging financial and market opportunities. He also pointed to Ethiopia’s ongoing macroeconomic reforms and its growing role in regional integration, citing areas like the Ethio-Djibouti railway and energy interconnectivity as models for future cooperation.

Chairman and CEO of the Investment Center of Africa, Abdinasir Turky, underscored the summit’s significance in unlocking Africa’s vast economic potential. “With abundant natural resources, a large population, and expanding infrastructure, Africa is poised for transformative growth,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, Ethiopian Airlines Group Chief Commercial Officer Lemma Yadecha highlighted the airline’s contribution to Africa’s trade connectivity. He noted that Ethiopian Airlines is playing a vital role in facilitating export-import activities by delivering African products — including fresh produce, flowers, and minerals — to markets around the world.

The summit is also showcasing Ethiopia’s trade and investment potential, particularly in agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and logistics, while positioning the country as a competitive destination for investment.

Among the high-level attendees were State Minister Yasmin Wahabrebi, Ambassador Dina Mufti—member of the House of People’s Representatives Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs—along with other senior officials and invited guests from across the continent.