Addis Ababa, May 23, 2025 (FMC) – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, together with his delegation, was received by President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace for bilateral talks on Thursday during which both sides reviewed the progress in implementing the agreements reached during President Macron’s visit to Ethiopia in December 2024.
While the two countries have long enjoyed strong ties and cooperation in areas such as defense and security, cultural preservation, and education, yesterday’s discussions further explored opportunities to enhance economic collaboration. France has also been a key supporter of Ethiopia’s debt restructuring process.
Since 2019, France and Ethiopia have significantly deepened their bilateral relations, marked by high-level visits, strategic agreements, and collaborative initiatives across various sectors. Since assuming office, both leaders have made several visits to each other’s countries. In October 2018, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed traveled to France, where he held discussions that laid the groundwork for future agreements in defense and cultural cooperation.
In March 2019, French President Emmanuel Macron made his first official visit to Ethiopia, during which he and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed signed several cooperation agreements. These notably paved the way for the restoration of the Rock-Hewn Churches of Lalibela and the National Palace. In addition to his stay in Addis Ababa, President Macron also visited Lalibela ahead of the commencement of restoration work.
In February 2023, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited France again, focusing on enhancing trade and investment ties. Discussions also addressed Ethiopia’s aspiration for secure and lasting sea access, as well as the importance of regional stability.
In December 2024, President Macron returned to Ethiopia, reaffirming France’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s economic reforms and debt restructuring efforts. During this visit, President Macron expressed full support for Ethiopia’s debt restructuring initiatives, emphasizing the urgency of a swift resolution to promote economic stability and growth.
Over the past seven years, the relationship between France and Ethiopia has evolved into a multifaceted and robust partnership, strengthened by the active engagement of both leaders, the Office of the Prime Minister asserted.