Ethiopia and Italy discuss expanding economic cooperation, private sector investment

Addis Ababa, March 16, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia and Italy have discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation, with a focus on expanding economic partnership, development collaboration and private sector investment.

The discussions took place in Rome during a meeting between Ethiopia’s Finance Minister Ahmed Shide and Italy’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Edmondo Cirielli.

According to Ethiopia’s Ministry of Finance, the two sides exchanged views on enhancing economic cooperation, strengthening development partnership and encouraging greater participation of the private sector.

During the meeting, Finance Minister Ahmed Shide briefed the Italian side on the progress of Ethiopia’s macroeconomic reform program, highlighting efforts aimed at strengthening macroeconomic stability, improving the investment climate and supporting sustainable economic growth.

He also acknowledged Italy’s continued support to Ethiopia in various development areas.

For his part, Deputy Minister Edmondo Cirielli noted Ethiopia’s role in promoting stability in the Horn of Africa and reiterated Italy’s commitment to supporting the country’s economic and development priorities. He also underscored the importance of encouraging greater participation of Italian private sector investors in the Ethiopian economy.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the longstanding partnership between Ethiopia and Italy, and agreed to continue working closely to advance mutually beneficial cooperation.