Ethiopia, World Bank Group Reaffirm Partnership to Sustain Economic Reforms and Growth

Addis Ababa, October 15, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s high-level delegation, led by Finance Minister Ahmed Shide, held discussions with World Bank Group President Ajay Banga on the sidelines of the 2025 World Bank and IMF Annual Meetings in Washington, D.C.

The delegation included National Bank Governor Eyob Tekalign, Senior Advisor to the Prime Minister Teklewold Atnafu, and other senior officials. The meeting focused on sustaining Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms and deepening development cooperation.

Minister Ahmed highlighted Ethiopia’s strong partnership with the World Bank, noting the Bank’s multifaceted support through a portfolio exceeding 16 billion US dollars across key sectors. He briefed the President on the tangible progress of Ethiopia’s macroeconomic reform program, citing robust growth, declining inflation, a stabilized exchange rate, increased exports, and improved foreign exchange reserves—reflecting rising confidence in the economy.

He also outlined the government’s next priorities, including driving agricultural transformation, expanding human capital development, and mobilizing private investment in manufacturing, agribusiness, energy, logistics, and digital sectors. The Minister emphasized the use of co-financing and de-risking instruments such as MIGA guarantees and IFC support to encourage private sector participation.

Ethiopia is also exploring innovative financing models such as Debt-for-Development Swaps to fund strategic projects, while advancing regional integration through WTO accession and active participation in the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

President Ajay Banga commended Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s leadership in implementing bold, comprehensive macroeconomic reforms that are transforming the nation’s economic landscape. He also welcomed Ethiopia’s ongoing national dialogue as a key step toward strengthening social cohesion and inclusive growth.

Reaffirming the World Bank Group’s strong commitment to Ethiopia’s development path, President Banga pledged continued support through the Bank’s full range of financial and technical instruments to sustain the reform agenda and ensure lasting development impact.