Ethiopia and China Commit to Strengthening Economic and Infrastructure Cooperation

Addis Ababa, March 30, 2026 (FMC) — A senior Ethiopian delegation led by Finance Minister Ahmed Shide and including National Bank Governor Eyob Tekalign, senior Ministry of Finance officials, and representatives from Ethiopian Airlines has begun a high-level mission to China to advance economic and infrastructure cooperation.

The delegation held meetings with major Chinese financial institutions, including the Export-Import Bank of China, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, and China Development Bank.

Discussions focused on finalizing ongoing debt restructuring negotiations and mobilizing financing for priority infrastructure projects, including the Bishoftu International Airport.

Ethiopia’s Finance Minister Ahmed Shide reported significant progress in the debt negotiations, noting that the process has entered its final stage.

He emphasized that completion will create fiscal space and enable the government to accelerate macroeconomic reforms and growth-oriented development initiatives.

Chinese financial institutions praised Ethiopia’s macroeconomic reform achievements and constructive engagement during the debt restructuring process.

They reaffirmed their continued support for Ethiopia’s economic reform efforts and long-standing development partnership.

Minister Shide also highlighted the strategic partnership between Ethiopia and China, urging the financial institutions to expedite appraisal and approval for the Bishoftu Airport financing.

He noted the project’s strong economic fundamentals, feasibility, and its role in enhancing Ethiopia’s position as a regional aviation hub while supporting long-term economic transformation.

Both sides agreed to continue strengthening cooperation in infrastructure financing and broader economic partnership, building on the longstanding and mutually beneficial relationship between the two countries.