German FM’s visit underlines Ethiopia and Africa as strategic partners for Germany, Embassy says

Addis Ababa, January 23, 2026 (FMC) – Federal Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul’s visit to Ethiopia highlighted the strategic importance of Africa and Ethiopia as partners for Germany and Europe, the German Embassy told FMC.

The Embassy recalled Wadephul’s meeting with Ethiopian government officials, the African Union, and a German parliamentary delegation to discuss bilateral cooperation, regional peace, and economic opportunities, the Embassy said. Talks with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized Ethiopia’s role in promoting stability in the Horn of Africa and its potential for German business.

In discussions with Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and AU Commission Chair Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Germany reaffirmed support for Ethiopia’s peacebuilding efforts, regional stability, and AU cooperation, including co-hosting a Sudan conference in Berlin on April 15 and launching a strategic dialogue on peace, climate change, and migration. The Embassy said Wadephul also backed Africa’s push for permanent UN Security Council representation.

The delegation visited Ethiopian Airlines and Bole Airport’s cargo terminal, reviewing the airline’s growth and infrastructure projects, including the Bishoftu International Airport. German parliament members met Ethiopian lawmakers and the Human Rights Commission, stressing human rights and regional political developments.

The visit concluded with an expert exchange on Sudan and a reception at the German Embassy with Ethiopian government, religious, business, civil society, and German representatives, the Embassy told FMC.