Bilateral talks see #Ethiopia and #France boost economic ties, sustain debt reform momentum

Addis Ababa, April 21, 2026 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s Minister of Finance, Ahmed Shide, held high-level talks with senior officials of the French Treasury on the margins of the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings, reaffirming the strategic importance of Ethiopia–France economic relations.

The discussions focused on deepening bilateral development cooperation, enhancing macroeconomic coordination, and maintaining strong momentum on Ethiopia’s comprehensive debt restructuring agenda.

Both sides also exchanged views on closer collaboration through the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund in support of Ethiopia’s reform program and long-term economic stability.

Minister Ahmed Shide expressed appreciation for France’s consistent and constructive engagement, highlighting its leadership as Co-Chair of the Official Creditor Committee (OCC).

He underscored France’s key role in advancing Ethiopia’s debt treatment, including the successful conclusion of the bilateral agreement under the G20 Common Framework, as well as its continued support in ongoing negotiations with private creditors—critical to restoring debt sustainability and unlocking new financing flows.

Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening cooperation to support Ethiopia’s reform agenda, attract investment, and advance sustainable and inclusive growth.