Ethiopia-Italy Forum Charts New Era of Strategic Economic and Infrastructure Collaboration

Addis Ababa, March 25, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia and Italy have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in investment and infrastructure development, as senior officials from both countries highlighted growing opportunities for deeper economic ties.

The Ethio-Italy Construction and Infrastructure Forum, convening high-level government officials and business leaders, is underway in Addis Ababa with the goal of enhancing collaboration in strategic sectors.

The opening session brought together key dignitaries, including Finance Minister Ahmed Shide, Irrigation and Lowlands Minister Abraham Belay, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie, State Minister for Urban and Infrastructure Development Yetimegeta Asrat, Italy’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Maria Tripodi, and Italy’s Ambassador to Ethiopia Sem Fabrizi, among others.

During the forum, officials emphasized the expanding potential for strategic partnerships, noting that strengthened collaboration could accelerate investment flows and infrastructure development in Ethiopia.

Finance Minister Ahmed Shide highlighted that ongoing macroeconomic reforms are creating a favorable environment for investment and sustainable growth. He noted that Ethiopia has embarked on comprehensive reforms aimed at stabilizing the economy and enhancing private sector participation, while Italy’s bilateral and multilateral support has played a constructive role.

According to Minister Shide, the strong ties between the leadership of the two countries have produced tangible results in recent years, with cooperation expanding in volume, quality, and scope—particularly in urban development, urban regeneration, and the energy sector.

He added that Italy has contributed to Ethiopia’s reform efforts through budget support, technical advisory services, and by facilitating Italian companies’ entry into the Ethiopian market. The forum, he said, will further strengthen collaboration in construction, technical design, urban utilities expansion, and broader infrastructure development.

Focusing on Addis Ababa, the minister emphasized that the capital is evolving into a major metropolitan hub, attracting investment, enhancing livability, and driving economic activity. Ongoing urban regeneration programs are improving social and economic conditions and serving as a model for other cities, with Italy playing a supportive role.

Minister Shide also stressed that the government is working to improve service delivery and institutional capacity to better support both investors and citizens.

“Ethiopia is a country of over 130 million people, undertaking ambitious reforms and offering vast opportunities,” he said. “The country aims to position itself as a regional anchor for stability, economic cooperation, and integration.”

Italy’s Deputy Minister Maria Tripodi commended Ethiopia’s reform trajectory and economic performance, describing the country as a key driver of development in Africa. She highlighted structural reforms, progress in strengthening the banking sector, and Ethiopia’s gradual integration into the World Trade Organization (WTO) as evidence of its commitment to openness and modernization.

“These developments inspire confidence among international investors and reinforce Ethiopia’s position as a dynamic and emerging market,” Tripodi said, noting that Ethiopia’s economic growth, which has exceeded six percent in recent years, makes it a natural partner for Italy’s production system.

Reaffirming Italy’s commitment to deepening economic ties, she said efforts are underway to convert strong political relations into tangible economic opportunities by leveraging Italy’s technological expertise and industrial capacity.

Tripodi added that Italian companies are well positioned to contribute to Ethiopia’s priority sectors, including infrastructure, logistics, urban development, and energy. She noted that Italy is ready to support Ethiopia with advanced solutions in sustainable urban development, social housing, waste management, and energy infrastructure.

Both sides emphasized that the forum provides a platform to strengthen business-to-business linkages and translate shared commitments into practical outcomes.