Ethiopia, African Development Bank Pledge Deeper Partnership to Boost Economy and Infrastructure

Addis Ababa, November 27, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia and the African Development Bank (AfDB) have agreed to strengthen their partnership, focusing on economic stability, infrastructure development, and preparations for the upcoming COP32 climate conference.

Finance Minister Ahmed Shide met with the President of the AfDB on the sidelines of the African Finance Forum in Rabat. The high-level meeting highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing reform agenda and explored ways to expand collaboration in key national priorities.

The discussions centered on three strategic areas: increasing support for Ethiopia’s COP32 preparations, enhancing budget support operations, and financing high-impact development programs, including the new Bishoftu International Airport.

The AfDB President praised Ethiopia’s progress in implementing reforms and reaffirmed the Bank’s commitment to scaling up engagement, particularly in projects that attract private investment, strengthen macroeconomic stability, and accelerate regional integration.

Minister Shide emphasized the importance of the partnership, stating that AfDB support “remains vital as we work to deliver economic stability and inclusive growth,” citing coordinated financing for the Bishoftu International Airport, budget support, and COP32 preparations as key areas of collaboration.

Both sides also agreed to intensify technical and policy dialogue aimed at advancing regional infrastructure programs and strengthening Ethiopia’s reform efforts. The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to a forward-looking partnership that promotes sustainable development, regional connectivity, and private-sector–led growth.