France’s Macron reiterates support to Ethiopia’s economic, modernization reforms

Addis Ababa, December 22, 2024 (FMC) – The President of the Republic of France, Emmanuel Macron, expressed his country’s confidence that Ethiopia is poised for a future marked by both prosperity and enduring peace.

The French leader made this comment about Ethiopia’s prospects in a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) after he visited Addis Ababa on Saturday for the second time in the past six years.

President Macron arrived in Addis Ababa on December 21 for an official working visit to Ethiopia on Saturday in which he conducted a range of bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.

In his message, Macron said Ethiopia bears the imprint of the first steps of humanity.

The bond between our two countries is deeply rooted in history and significant collaborative initiatives, he underscored. “In 2019, we committed to jointly advancing cultural and heritage preservation alongside a scientific program.”

Macron pointed out that a remarkable heritage conservation endeavor in Lalibela is set to conclude in the upcoming months, stating that “previously, we undertook the restoration of the National Palace, which is now celebrated as a symbol of pride.”

Looking ahead, the French President pledged, “We will do so again tomorrow to support Ethiopia’s economic and modernization reforms and to continue the implementation of the Pretoria Peace Agreement, the cornerstone of peace and stability in Tigray region.”

He went on to express his country’s confidence that Ethiopia will be a prosperous country with durable peace.

During the joint press conference conducted with Prime Minister Abiy at the conclusion of the visit, French President affirmed that France will support Ethiopia’s development projects. Macron also said that his country supports Ethiopia’s quest for access to the sea.