Addis Ababa, November 23, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia has made significant strides in advancing its national development agenda and deepening international partnerships at the historic G20 Summit, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide announced.
The country played a central role at the first-ever G20 Summit hosted on African soil, with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed leading a high-level delegation in a series of bilateral and multilateral engagements.
Speaking to the media, Minister Ahmed said the discussions focused on promoting sustainable development, enhancing international cooperation, and advancing Africa’s economic priorities. Ethiopia used the platform not only to highlight its national development strategy but also to represent the collective aspirations of African nations.
A key emphasis was on continued support from the Global Fund, particularly regarding Ethiopia’s access to grant programs. “As one of the continent’s major beneficiaries, Ethiopia has been instrumental in ensuring the success of these grants,” Minister Ahmed noted. The country’s comprehensive health system was showcased as a model for the effective utilization of international assistance.
Prime Minister Abiy also held high-level talks with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, during which both leaders praised Ethiopia’s economic growth and ongoing macroeconomic reforms, highlighting Addis Ababa as a model of urban development in Africa. Discussions focused on strengthening continental cooperation, encouraging South African investment in Ethiopia, and reinforcing shared regional development goals, the minister emphasized.
In his address to the summit, Prime Minister Abiy underscored the importance of inclusive global economic cooperation, outlining Ethiopia’s and Africa’s priorities in technology, climate action, and sustainable development, and emphasizing the continent’s growing influence in shaping global policy agendas.
Ethiopia also held productive engagements with key international partners during the summit. Minister Ahmed explained that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) praised Ethiopia’s ongoing macroeconomic reform efforts and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the country’s climate and development initiatives. Similarly, the World Bank reiterated its readiness to expand programmatic and financial support, policy financing, and capacity-strengthening initiatives, confirming continued backing for major investments, including the Bishoftu Mega Airport project.
The African Development Bank (AfDB) recognized Ethiopia as a leading model for development on the continent. Minister Ahmed noted that the new AfDB President expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Abiy and pledged sustained collaboration on strategic development projects, including financing for the Bishoftu Mega Airport.
The G20 Summit marked a historic milestone for Africa. “Ethiopia actively promoted the continent’s priorities, championed sustainable development, and strengthened strategic partnerships with global stakeholders,” Minister Ahmed said, highlighting the country’s pivotal role on the international stage.