For the second time in six years, French President Emmanuel Macron visited Addis Ababa, signaling a new chapter in the over 126-year diplomatic relationship between Ethiopia and France. The visit highlighted not only the enduring ties between the two nations but also a shared commitment to enhancing collaboration in culture, education, and investment.
A statement released on social media by President Macron and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) underscored the strengthened partnership, which aims to address both nations’ strategic and developmental goals. Macron’s pledge to support Ethiopia’s heritage preservation, including a donation for the restoration of the Lalibela Rock- Hewn Churches, has been widely hailed as a significant diplomatic gesture.
The timing of Macron’s visit is particularly notable, as Ethiopia seeks broader international support for its national interests, including gaining access to the sea. This diplomatic engagement underscores France’s commitment to Ethiopia’s historical and geopolitical significance.
Political and International Relations Analyst Professor Brook Hailu commented on the visit, stating that Macron’s trip is symbolic of the growing strategic relationship between the two countries. “France’s presence in Djibouti is already significant, but Ethiopia’s strategic importance in the region makes this relationship crucial. The bond between the two leaders now extends beyond diplomatic protocols, evolving into a partnership grounded in shared interests,” Brook said.
Prof. Brook also emphasized that Ethiopia’s alliance with France could enhance its multilateral diplomacy efforts. As a nuclear power and a permanent member of the UN Security Council, France’s influence can help Ethiopia gain a stronger voice in international and regional affairs. He added, “Diplomatic success cannot be achieved in isolation. Ethiopia’s growing partnership with France provides a valuable ally in navigating complex global challenges.”
The collaboration also holds implications for Ethiopia’s relationship with Djibouti. The scholar suggested that France’s involvement could pave the way for Ethiopia to secure better terms for access to the sea, an issue of vital importance for the country. France’s recent support for Ethiopia’s naval ambitions could serve as a critical step forward in achieving this goal.
A regional political analyst Ustaz Jemal Beshir also praised France’s early backing of Ethiopia’s reestablishment of a naval force, including technical assistance and training programs. He noted that this engagement goes beyond routine diplomatic exchanges, indicating a deeper commitment to Ethiopia’s security and regional influence.
“Ethiopia has faced diplomatic challenges in recent years, but its relationship with France has remained a pillar of stability. This stability is crucial for Ethiopia’s long-term development and geopolitical interests,” remarked UstazJemal.
Veteran diplomat Dina Mufti (Amb.) underscored France’s important role in Ethiopia’s peace-building efforts, particularly its support for the Pretoria Agreement between the Federal Government and the TPLF.
Amb. Dina described Macron’s visit as a testament to France’s ongoing commitment to advancing cooperation across multiple sectors, including infrastructure, education, and cultural preservation. He highlighted France’s provision of PhD programs for Ethiopian students as a symbol of the growing educational exchanges between the two nations.
Macron’s visit also reflects France’s broader commitment to Ethiopia’s development trajectory. By investing in Ethiopia’s cultural heritage and supporting critical infrastructure projects, France is positioning itself as a key ally in Ethiopia’s pursuit of stability and prosperity.
The visit thus represents a milestone in Ethiopia-France diplomacy, marking a convergence of cultural preservation, educational collaboration, and strategic partnerships. It offers a template for how bilateral relations can be leveraged to address both immediate needs and long-term objectives, strengthening the ties between these two nations for years to come.
BY YESUF ENDRIS
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD TUESDAY 24 DECEMBER 2024
