Addis Ababa, June 21, 2025 (FMC) — The Government of Ethiopia and the Royal Danish Government have signed a major bilateral development agreement on Friday under the Danish–Ethiopian Bilateral Development Programme (2025–2029), marking a renewed commitment to shared goals of green growth, resilience, and inclusive development.
Signed at the Ministry of Finance in Addis Ababa, the agreement commits USD 238.4 million in support from Denmark — one of its largest global development programs — and reflects the deepening partnership between the two countries.
Speaking on behalf of the Government of Ethiopia, State Minister of Finance Semereta Sewasew expressed gratitude for Denmark’s continued support. “The programme we are launching today comes at a very important time for Ethiopia. We are emerging from a difficult period of conflict and global economic challenges and are now working hard to rebuild what has been lost — homes, livelihoods, and most importantly, hope,” she noted.
Ambassador Sune Krogstrup of the Royal Danish Embassy described the agreement as “a testament to the strong bilateral relationship between Ethiopia and Denmark and the excellent partnership that we have enjoyed throughout the years.” He emphasized that the two nations “have enjoyed a century of friendship with diplomatic ties dating back to 1967,” and that their partnership is “rooted in trust, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to building a better future for our people.”
According to the State Minister, the agreement’s timing is critical, and its implementation will directly benefit vulnerable communities, youth seeking employment, and areas affected by climate-related challenges. “This partnership will support some of the most vulnerable Ethiopian families who are striving to recover their livelihoods, young people who are looking to work, and communities that are adapting to changes in climate,” she stated, adding that it reflects a people-centered national vision.
The Danish Embassy in Addis Ababa told Fana Media Corporation that the program strongly supports Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative and green growth ambitions. “Denmark views this renewed partnership as a significant opportunity to jointly advance Ethiopia’s ambitious green growth and sustainable development goals,” the Embassy stated. It highlighted Danish support in key sectors such as agriculture, energy, and water — including sustainable farming practices, value chain development, and projects like the Assela wind park. It also noted support for forest regeneration through RIP II and water management strategies aimed at improving groundwater access and efficiency.
State Minister Semereta particularly welcomed the program’s green focus, saying it “deeply resonates with our ambitions under the Green Legacy Initiative,” and that “whether through climate-smart agriculture, forestry integration, or access to clean energy, your support strengthens our long-term sustainability and sovereignty ambitions.”
The Danish Embassy also told Fana Media Corporation that Denmark’s emphasis on peace, human rights, and social cohesion is directly integrated into the new agreement. The program includes support to the National Dialogue Initiative, the demobilization and reintegration of ex-combatants, and the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission. In addition, Denmark will assist the National Election Board of Ethiopia to enhance its capacity in organizing a transparent and inclusive national election.
“The programme is designed to deliver meaningful progress in key areas including resilience, green growth, and peacebuilding,” the Embassy noted. It emphasized support for agricultural productivity, renewable energy expansion, disaster resilience, and inclusive governance — both in Ethiopia and across the Horn of Africa. Denmark will also share technical expertise through its Strategic Sector Cooperation in the energy and water sectors.
Ambassador Krogstrup expressed confidence that the program “will pave the way for an even deeper cooperation between Ethiopia and Denmark,” and reaffirmed, “Ethiopia can count on the support of the government of Denmark, of the people of Denmark.”
Reiterating Ethiopia’s commitment, State Minister Semereta said, “We are fully committed to the success of this program. We will work closely with you to ensure that these programs translate into real and lasting improvement in the lives of our people.” She concluded by expressing appreciation: “Thank you for believing in Ethiopia.”