EU Ambassador Extends New Year Wishes to Ethiopia, Reaffirms Partnership for a Peaceful, Prosperous and Sustainable Future

Addis Ababa, September 11, 2026 (FMC) — European Union Ambassador to Ethiopia Sofie From-Emmesberger has extended warm New Year wishes to the Ethiopian people, expressing hopes for a peaceful, prosperous and joyful 2019 while reaffirming the European Union’s commitment to a strong and enduring partnership with Ethiopia.

In her New Year message, the ambassador reflected on what she described as significant progress and achievements in EU-Ethiopia relations during 2018, pointing to fruitful high-level engagements and visits, the restoration of standard visa procedures, the resumption of EU Budget Support and the successful EU-Ethiopia Business Forum.

Looking ahead to 2019, From-Emmesberger reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s efforts toward sustainable and inclusive economic development, green energy and digitalisation, while expanding opportunities for young people and strengthening health systems.

She said these areas of cooperation form part of a broader effort toward a more prosperous future, particularly through the EU’s Global Gateway strategy.

The ambassador also placed peace and security at the heart of Ethiopia’s development prospects, stressing that they are essential foundations for unlocking the country’s full potential.

She underscored the importance of inclusive political dialogue, reconciliation and engagement in achieving sustainable peace, particularly as the Horn of Africa continues to face complex challenges.

“Dialogue and cooperation remain indispensable tools for building trust, preventing conflict, and securing a more peaceful future for all,” she said.

The New Year message also highlighted the importance of stronger mobility and people-to-people connections between Ethiopia and Europe, with the ambassador pointing to opportunities in business, education, cultural exchange and broader cooperation.

In this regard, From-Emmesberger congratulated 55 Ethiopian students awarded full Erasmus+ scholarships, describing them as a lasting bridge between the peoples of Ethiopia and Europe.

She emphasized the role of education, knowledge and international exchange in equipping young Ethiopians with skills and experiences that can contribute to the country’s future development.

As Ethiopia enters 2019, the ambassador called for a renewed commitment to “dialogue over division, and cooperation over confrontation,” while reaffirming the EU as a strong, trusted and committed partner for Ethiopia.