Ethiopia, Germany discuss strengthening dev’t cooperation and future collaboration

Addis Ababa, April 10, 2025 (FMC) – High-level representatives from Ethiopia and Germany convened for a pivotal meeting aimed at reinforcing their long-standing development cooperation and exploring future avenues of collaboration.

The German delegation included Marie Strohe, Senior Policy Advisor at the Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ); Benjamin Tedla Hecker, Head of Development Cooperation at the German Embassy; and Carlotta Preiss, Deputy Head of Development Cooperation and First Secretary.

The meeting underscored the strong and multifaceted partnership between the two countries. Strohe, recently appointed to the East Africa team, shared her positive impressions of Germany’s development initiatives across Ethiopia.

In the area of agriculture and food security, both sides acknowledged Germany’s significant role—particularly in enhancing agricultural productivity. Strohe highlighted her visits to projects in Arba-Minch and Asella, where Germany supports seed multiplication initiatives contributing to the rehabilitation of Lake Chamo and the enhancement of local food production.

With food security remaining a major challenge, Germany reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Ethiopia’s food systems.

Ethiopia’s Finance State Minister Ms. Semereta Sewasew emphasized the importance of the Productive Safety Net Programme (PSNP) in cushioning vulnerable populations from the impacts of economic reforms. Strohe reaffirmed Germany’s strong support for Ethiopia’s social protection mechanisms.

Governance and transitional justice also featured prominently in the discussions. The German delegation reiterated their support for Ethiopia’s transitional justice process, highlighting its significance for national stability and international cooperation.

While the policy direction of the newly formed German government is still taking shape, the delegation expressed a continued interest in maintaining and deepening the partnership.

They acknowledged existing commitments to budget support and outlined the parliamentary processes underway, with expected developments later in the year.

In addition, Germany extended an invitation to Ethiopia to participate in the upcoming Hamburg Sustainability Conference in Berlin, scheduled for July.

The German side emphasized the significance of Ethiopian representation at this high-level event and requested clarity regarding the level of participation the Ethiopian government intends to provide.

The meeting concluded with a shared sense of commitment to enhancing the bilateral relationship.

Both sides expressed enthusiasm for ongoing collaboration and the exploration of new opportunities in line with evolving national priorities and international development goals to be discussed in the upcoming governmental negotiations.