This year marks a significant milestone in the relationship between the European Union (EU) and Ethiopia, as both partners commemorate 50 years of diplomatic, economic, and development cooperation. The landmark anniversary, celebrated at a high-profile event in Addis Ababa, brought together dignitaries, ambassadors, and officials from both Ethiopia and the EU member states to reflect on the past and reaffirm their commitment to a shared future.
Speaking at the celebration, Sofie From-Emmesberger, EU Ambassador to Ethiopia, underscored the depth and breadth of the partnership, which has evolved from a primarily economic alliance to a robust and multifaceted collaboration rooted in mutual respect, shared values, and joint priorities.
“Ethiopia is not only one of the EU’s most important partners on the African continent, but also a close ally in advancing peace, security, and sustainable development,” Ambassador From-Emmesberger emphasized.
A partnership built on historic foundations
The roots of EU-Ethiopia relations can be traced back to 28 February 1975, when Ethiopia and the EU’s predecessor, the European Economic Community (EEC), co-signed the Lomé Convention, a pivotal agreement that laid the foundation for decades of cooperation.
The Lomé Convention enabled a framework for development aid, trade cooperation, and technical assistance — setting the stage for what has become a dynamic and enduring relationship. Since then, the partnership has grown exponentially, encompassing development cooperation, trade, investment, humanitarian aid, and political dialogue.
“It is also exciting for EU member states, 21 of them represented in Addis Ababa today, that their ties with Ethiopia go much further back in history,” said From-Emmesberger, noting the long-standing engagement of various European countries in Ethiopia.
Today, the EU and its member states collectively contribute close to €1 billion annually in various forms of cooperation, including direct development aid, investments, and humanitarian assistance, making the EU one of Ethiopia’s largest partners.
Economic and trade relations: A key pillar of cooperation
Trade remains a vital element of EU-Ethiopia relations. Since 2001, Ethiopia has benefited from the “Everything But Arms” (EBA) initiative, which grants tariff-free access to the EU market for all Ethiopian products except arms and ammunition.
This preferential trade arrangement has been instrumental in boosting Ethiopia’s exports to Europe, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, textiles, and horticulture, contributing to Ethiopia’s economic diversification and integration into global markets.
Furthermore, the European Investment Bank (EIB) has been an active partner since 1982, channeling investments into Ethiopia’s renewable energy, infrastructure, private sector development, and women entrepreneurship, reflecting a broad-based effort to promote inclusive economic growth.
Humanitarian assistance and development cooperation
Beyond trade and investment, the EU has been a consistent provider of humanitarian aid, especially during times of crisis. Through the European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO) office in Addis Ababa, established in 2006, the EU has supported Ethiopia in critical areas such as food security, health, education, and emergency response in conflict-affected areas.
During the devastating conflict from 2020 to 2022, which severely impacted millions of Ethiopians, the EU stood by Ethiopia, continuing to provide life-saving assistance. Moreover, the EU actively supported the African Union-led and Ethiopian-owned peace process, including funding disarmament, transitional justice, and national dialogue initiatives to foster a sustainable resolution to the conflict.
“The EU never abandoned the Ethiopian people during difficult times,” said From-Emmesberger. “Our commitment remains strong in supporting Ethiopia’s journey toward peace, reconciliation, and national unity.”
Strategic engagement and reform support
In 2016, the EU and Ethiopia elevated their partnership through the signing of the Strategic Engagement Agreement, a comprehensive framework aimed at deepening cooperation across key areas such as governance, human rights, migration, and regional peace and security.
Recognizing Ethiopia’s political and economic reform agenda initiated under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the EU adopted Conclusions on Ethiopia in 2018, welcoming the government’s ambition to build a more inclusive, democratic, and just society.
However, the road to reform has not been without challenges, including political tensions and conflicts. Still, the EU has remained committed, working alongside Ethiopia to support ongoing reforms and promote stability.
“Stability, security, dialogue, and the rule of law are critical for the success of Ethiopia’s reforms and for fostering an environment where European businesses can invest, create jobs, and contribute to Ethiopia’s development,” From-Emmesberger stated.
Looking ahead: Green legacy and global gateway
As Ethiopia embarks on ambitious development and climate initiatives, including the Green Legacy campaign, the EU has pledged to intensify its support through platforms such as the EU Global Gateway and Horn of Africa Initiative.
The EU aims to strengthen collaboration in renewable energy, digitalization, agriculture, and private sector development, all in line with Ethiopia’s national priorities. These efforts are expected to create sustainable jobs, enhance technological capacity, and contribute to environmental conservation.
Ambassador From-Emmesberger highlighted the importance of inclusive development, emphasizing that “the inclusion of women and marginalized groups will lead to stronger economic growth and more resilient communities.”
People-to-people relations: The human connection
A notable feature of EU-Ethiopia relations is the vibrant people-to-people connection, manifested through cultural exchanges, educational programs, and scholarships. Each year, Ethiopian students participate in the Erasmus+ scholarship program, pursuing higher education in Europe and bringing back knowledge and skills to contribute to Ethiopia’s development.
Moreover, an increasing number of European citizens live and work in Ethiopia, building personal and professional ties that deepen the partnership. Cultural interactions through music, arts, sports, and film festivals further cement these human connections.
“Our relationship is not only political or economic; it is deeply personal,” remarked From-Emmesberger, stressing that the bond between Ethiopians and Europeans is a cornerstone for future cooperation.
Austria and Ethiopia: Celebrating 120 years of bilateral relations
Also present at the celebration was Austrian Ambassador to Ethiopia, Simmone Knapp, who highlighted the 120-year-old bilateral relationship between Austria and Ethiopia, established in 1905 through an accord signed by the emperors of both nations.
Ambassador Knapp noted that Austria and Ethiopia cooperate in sectors such as education, tourism, art, and governance, with strong people-to-people links. “We are looking into the future,” Knapp said, “and are committed to expanding our partnership in business, multilateral diplomacy, and development cooperation.”
Austria, which celebrates 30 years of EU membership, continues to contribute to Ethiopia’s development as part of the broader EU collective effort.
Bright future of cooperation
Ambassador Abraham Mengistu, Ethiopia’s Deputy Director-General for Europe and America, echoed the importance of the EU partnership, acknowledging five decades of “enduring cooperation that has weathered challenges and continues to thrive.”
As Ethiopia advances its homegrown economic reforms, Abraham called on European investors to seize opportunities in the country, and urged both sides to “step up” their collaboration in trade, investment, peace, and security.
Shared vision for the next 50 years
Looking ahead, the EU reaffirmed its commitment to continue partnering with Ethiopia for the next 50 years, focusing on shared goals of peace, prosperity, and sustainable development.
Ambassador From-Emmesberger concluded by signifying the power of unity in facing challenges and achieving common goals. In an increasingly complex global landscape, the EU-Ethiopia partnership stands as a model of resilience, collaboration, and shared progress, ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities of the next half-century
BY DANIEL ALEMAYEHU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 13 MARCH 2025
