Addis Ababa, May 15, 2026 (FMC) — Romania has a strong interest to strengthening its economic and political partnership with Ethiopia as the two countries prepare to mark six decades of formal diplomatic relations next year, former Romanian Prime Minister and current presidential counselor Dacian Cioloș said on Friday.
Speaking following talks with President Taye Atske Selassie at the National Palace in Addis Ababa, Cioloș said he delivered a personal message from Romanian President Nicușor Dan and described Ethiopia as one of Romania’s key partners in Africa.
The Romanian envoy noted that 2026 will mark 60 years since Romania established its embassy in Addis Ababa, adding that Bucharest is working to deepen bilateral ties through enhanced economic and political cooperation.
Cioloș also highlighted the longstanding educational relations between the two countries, noting that many Ethiopians have studied in Romania over the past several decades.
He said Romania intends to build on that longstanding partnership while exploring additional areas of cooperation with Ethiopia.
The former Romanian prime minister further pointed to Addis Ababa’s rapid transformation, saying the city has changed significantly since his last visit 12 years ago.
He added that Romania is also interested in strengthening collaboration with Ethiopia within international organizations.
During the meeting, President Taye expressed appreciation for the message conveyed by the Romanian envoy and underscored the longstanding diplomatic ties between Ethiopia and Romania, stressing the broad potential for expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.
In a separate engagement, President Taye also held discussions with Kesetebirhan Admasu, chief executive of Big Win Philanthropy, on efforts aimed at advancing early childhood development initiatives in Ethiopia.
During the discussion, the president encouraged the organization to continue supporting early childhood development programs in the country.