Addis Ababa, August 27, 2025 (FMC) — A high-level Ethiopian delegation, led by Finance Minister Ahmed and accompanied by Ambassador Girma Biru, Special Advisor on Economic Affairs to the Prime Minister, delivered a message from Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit.
The meeting, held in Juba, brought together South Sudan’s Vice President for the Economic Cluster, Foreign Affairs Minister, Finance and Planning Minister, Minister of Presidential Affairs, and the Governor of the Central Bank.
Ahmed conveyed Prime Minister Abiy’s commitment to deepening the historic and strategic ties between Ethiopia and South Sudan, emphasizing Addis Ababa’s resolve to advance a comprehensive partnership with Juba.
President Kiir welcomed the message and reiterated the importance of strengthening bilateral relations for the benefit of both nations.
The discussions centered on joint economic cooperation and infrastructure investment, including road networks, electricity transmission lines, and telecommunications projects.
Both sides agreed to accelerate ongoing initiatives such as the Pagak-Maiwut-Mthiang-Paloch road project, aimed at enhancing connectivity and regional integration.
Potential collaboration between the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia and South Sudanese financial institutions was explored to strengthen the banking sector, while Ethiopian Airlines was proposed as a strategic partner to develop South Sudan’s aviation services.
The dialogue also addressed the establishment of a trade and transport corridor linking South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Djibouti to facilitate regional commerce.
Officials stressed the importance of closely monitoring project implementation to ensure measurable progress toward shared goals of economic development and regional integration.
The visit underscores Ethiopia and South Sudan’s mutual commitment to fostering economic ties, advancing infrastructure projects, and promoting long-term prosperity across the Horn of Africa.