Today’s guest, Dr. Simone Knapp, is the Austrian Ambassador to Ethiopia. She is also accredited to the African Union (AU) and IGAD (Intergovernmental Authority on Development), as well as to Uganda, Djibouti, South Sudan and Congo (Brazzaville).
Simone Knapp (PhD) studied Political Science at Leopold-Franzens University in Innsbruck, a region in the west of Austria where she was born and raised. She later moved to Vienna in search of job opportunities.
Between 2005 and 2011, she worked at the Austrian Permanent Representation to the European Union in Brussels as the Deputy PSC representative and as a delegate to various committees. Prior to that, she gained experience in different departments within the Austrian Foreign Ministry, as well as in the private sector and the Austrian Economic Chamber.
In the following four years, she served as the Head of Office for the Austrian Coordination Office for Development Cooperation in Kampala, Uganda. Dr. Knapp also held the position of Deputy Head of the OSCE Task Force during Austria’s Chairmanship in 2017 and was the Deputy Director in the Africa Department of the Austrian Foreign Ministry from 2015 to 2016.
Until July 2022, Dr. Knapp served as Director of Planning and Programming for bilateral and regional development cooperation within the Development Cooperation Directorate of the Austrian Ministry for European and International Affairs in Vienna.
During an interview with reporters from the Ethiopia Press Agency, she discussed a range of issues focusing on bilateral, regional, and multilateral topics. Enjoy the read!
Can you provide an overview of the historical relationship between Ethiopia and Austria?
It is not easy to provide an exact overview of the historic relations, but our long-standing historic relations are noteworthy. This year marks 120 years of bilateral relations between Austria and Ethiopia. In 1905, our emperors signed the first Treaty of Friendship, which further solidified the existing relations between the two countries. One symbol of these relations is the Maria Theresa thaler (MTT), a currency used in Ethiopia for trade. Relations flourished after the Friendship Treaty, leading to increased people-to-people interactions.
Austrians and Ethiopians traveled between their countries, facilitating cultural exchange. For instance, an Austrian scientist conducted groundbreaking research in the Kaffa region in the 1930s, with his findings displayed in a museum in Austria. The embassy in Ethiopia was established in 1964, further enhancing relations. Throughout the 20th century, there were numerous people-to-people interactions, with Austrians making significant contributions to various fields in Ethiopia.
These interactions continue to this day, with development cooperation programs and embassy activities supporting the relationship. Artists, chefs, and experts from Austria have continued to make noteworthy contributions to Ethiopia, highlighting the enduring bond between our two countries.
How do cultural exchanges contribute to strengthening the ties between the two nations?
I believe that cultural exchange is a valuable way to strengthen ties between nations. We have participated in cultural exchanges in both countries. For example, last year we hosted one of your famous jazz artists, Samuel, in Austria for a few concerts. He even collaborated with an Austrian jazz pianist.
The Austrian jazz pianist also traveled to Ethiopia last year, and we are planning more cultural activities for this year. Just two weeks ago, a young Austrian singer visited us. We have more Austrian musicians scheduled to visit later this year. I believe that people-to-people connections through art, culture, and music are extremely valuable.
How do you view the economic reforms that the government has been implementing?
The government made significant decisions years ago to reform the economy and open up to the world. Negotiations for World Trade Organization accession are ongoing. It is crucial for Ethiopia to be part of the world economy, as it is challenging to prosper alone in today’s world.
The economic reforms undertaken by the government in recent years are important and widely acknowledged. It is especially beneficial for Austrian investors looking for opportunities in Ethiopia to have open markets and incentives.
Do you think there have been any changes recently? Are you planning to attract more investors?
Yes, we do. In fact, we brought some potential investors and investors last October. We had a business mission with Austrian companies who were very curious and interested in the changes happening in Ethiopia, seeing it as a potential economic partner.
Some of them are already investing in Ethiopia, particularly in the health and medical sectors. Others are still exploring potential partnerships. It’s important to take these initial steps and build relationships, even if not all investments materialize.
We have another business mission scheduled for June, with a few companies expected to participate. We will assess their interests and facilitate meetings with suitable partners in Ethiopia to help them decide if they want to invest here. The interest from Austria in Ethiopia is impressive, showing Ethiopia’s commitment to economic reform.
We all know it has not been easy, but these are very important steps. So we want to, of course, stand by Ethiopia and support the country on this path.
What kind of sectors are they wishing to join or engage in Ethiopia here? Do you have some fields?
We have a few fields. Currently, we have two Austrian companies operating in the medical sector. One is located in Bole Lemi and has already established a production facility there. They are currently in the trial phase for this production facility. Another company is also investing in the health sector, specifically focusing on cochlear implants for people with hearing disabilities.
In addition to partnering with local companies, they are also involved in training the medical sector here. Early detection of hearing deficiencies is crucial, especially in children. Providing them with hearing aids at an early age significantly aids in their development, allowing them to thrive like other children.
This not only benefits the individuals and their families but also contributes to the economy by enabling full participation in various activities. For instance, children and adults can engage in activities like other individuals.
Another example I can provide is related to mining. In June, we will be focusing a bit more on this sector. Austria, like Ethiopia, has a rich mining tradition due to its mountainous terrain. Austria is home to a prestigious mining university, and there is an opportunity for collaboration with Austrian mining companies that possess significant expertise in this field.
The government has been initiating tree plantations every July or annually to combat climate change. How do you view the Ethiopian Green Legacy Initiative?
Absolutely, I agree with you. Planting trees is crucial worldwide and significantly contributes to improving the climate.
It is essential to support this initiative, and I am eager to participate again. I joined in some tree-planting activities last year as well. Additionally, we planted some trees within our compound. During one of the tree-planting events, I was allowed to bring an extra tree back to plant here, and it is steadily growing.
This activity holds great importance, especially in a country like Ethiopia that is highly susceptible to climate change. The changing weather patterns are evident, emphasizing the significance of tree planting to combat these effects.
It is crucial not only in urban areas but across the entire country. Trees play a vital role in mitigating climate change and also benefit the soil. By planting trees, the soil can regenerate and improve for future cultivation.
Do you have tree planting programs in Austria?
Not exactly. Austria is already very green with extensive forest coverage. Our country has a long-standing tradition of sustainable forest management, where trees are replanted whenever they are cut down.
Although we don’t have a specific green legacy initiative, tree planting has always been ingrained in our culture as a way to maintain our forests. We faced similar challenges in the past, which led to a collective effort among farmers to replant trees and preserve the land.
One similarity I see between Ethiopia and Austria is the recent shift towards planting more indigenous trees. While Austria has traditionally focused on fir trees, there is now a movement to diversify tree species for a better environmental impact.
In Ethiopia, the emphasis on planting indigenous trees instead of eucalyptus trees is commendable. Despite their slower growth, indigenous trees are more sustainable and beneficial for the soil and overall environment.
How would you assess the current state of bilateral relations and cooperation between Austria and Ethiopia? In which sectors are Austria currently engaged and what forms does this cooperation take?
First and foremost, I believe our bilateral relations are excellent. I am hopeful that we can continue on this positive trajectory, as our traditions have been longstanding and we maintain very friendly relations. The most recent high-level visit was made by your prime minister to Austria, which occurred a year and half ago. With the new government in Austria, we are optimistic that our foreign minister will soon visit Ethiopia.
Recently, there was a productive conversation between our foreign ministers in Brussels during the EU-African Union meeting. This demonstrates the strong and friendly relations on various levels, including people-to-people exchanges, as well as political and diplomatic interactions.
Austria is engaged in various areas of cooperation in Ethiopia, including country cooperation, economic cooperation, and development cooperation. We aim to deepen economic cooperation and support programs and projects in Ethiopia. In rural development, our focus is on increasing productivity and supporting agricultural production. We also provide opportunities for skills development to enable individuals to explore other productive options. Additionally, we support governance and local governance to ensure that people have a voice and can engage with their leadership to address regional needs and services.
As an ambassador, what do you think could further enhance cooperation between the two countries? Are there any specific sectors that should receive attention from both countries?
Yes, every year we have a specific focus. This year, our main focus is on cultural cooperation. We have different musicians coming here for concerts and collaborating with Ethiopian artists. For example, we recently had two artists team up with an Ethiopian artist to perform together. We always strive to facilitate these collaborations.
We will have more musicians coming this week and in July, and we always pair them with local musicians. We believe that developing something together and exchanging ideas is a great way to strengthen relationships.
Everyone involved is very curious because many of them have never been to Ethiopia. They appreciate the exposure to the culture and music, among other sectors, and enjoy creating something together. Cultural cooperation is definitely an area we want to deepen, along with economic cooperation. Currently, we are focusing on mining due to our partnership with the Austrian Mining University to support capacity building in Ethiopia.
The trade volume between Austria and Ethiopia is not very high, as both countries are landlocked and most of our commerce is within Europe. The trade volumes between Austria and Ethiopia are relatively low, but the trade volumes between Europe and Ethiopia are significant.
The EU exports about $600 million worth of goods to Ethiopia, while imports from Ethiopia to Europe are around $1.2 billion. It can be challenging to differentiate between goods that enter Europe and eventually end up in Austria due to the common market in Europe. For example, products like coffee that enter Rotterdam or Italy often find their way to Austria as well.
How can tourism be promoted between the two countries? And what unique experiences can each country offer to the other’s citizens?
Let me begin by sharing a unique experience regarding the wonderful cooperation we have with Ethiopia in the field of tourism. In Salzburg, Austria, there is a renowned tourism training institute known as the Tourism and Hospitality Institute. This institute was established in the early 1960s during the growth of tourism in Austria.
Since its establishment, the institute has always welcomed students from around the world, appreciating the cultural exchanges with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Each year, students from Ethiopia come to Austria to pursue studies at this institute, completing a one-year diploma program in tourism. This partnership is extremely beneficial, as we witness the positive impact when these students return to Ethiopia and contribute to the hospitality industry.
How can educational institutions in both countries collaborate to enhance mutual understanding and knowledge sharing?
Austrian universities have a strong history of collaboration with Ethiopia, as well as with other countries, in various sectors. Austria’s location in the heart of Europe has necessitated open exchanges with neighboring countries, fostering growth and development. This openness extends to research and university cooperation, with Austrian universities actively engaging with Ethiopian institutions.
In Africa, Ethiopia stands out as a key partner for Austrian universities, with collaborations spanning several decades. Partnerships exist with universities such as Addis Ababa University, ASTU, Kotebe University, Haramaya University, Bahir Dar University, Gondar University, Mekelle University, and Adigrat University. This university cooperation is supported by both the Austrian universities themselves and Austria’s development cooperation efforts. Financial support is provided for professors and students traveling between the two countries for research purposes.
The collaboration between Austrian and Ethiopian universities is diverse, encompassing fields such as health, medicine and education. This partnership has facilitated the exchange of graduate, master’s students, and PhD candidates, allowing them to deepen their research and broaden their knowledge base. This ongoing cooperation underscores the commitment of both countries to mutual understanding and knowledge sharing.
Thank you .
It’s my pleasure .
BY GIRMACHEW GASHAW
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 7 JUNE 2025
