Ethiopia and the European Investment Bank’s development arm, EIB Global, have reaffirmed plans to expand cooperation on investment, infrastructure and private sector development.

State Minister of Finance Tiguist Fisseha met a delegation led by EIB Global Director General Andrew McDowell and Financial Inclusion Division Head Christophe Litt to discuss financing aligned with Ethiopia’s economic reform priorities.

The talks highlighted Euro190 million in planned support for rural finance and energy. Of this, Euro 110 million has been approved for the Third Rural Financial Intermediation Program, which aims to expand financial services for rural businesses. The remaining Euro 80 million relates to the Renewable, Integrated and Sustainable Energy and Digitalization project, with both parties seeking to expedite its signing and implementation to modernize electricity transmission and improve access to reliable electricity across the country.

The delegation also discussed potential financing for Bishoftu International Airport, a project intended to enhance aviation capacity and regional trade connectivity.

Further discussions covered private investment in renewable energy, including public-private partnerships, as well as support for small and medium-sized enterprises, export-oriented industries and green finance. Ethiopia also expressed interest in developing its capital markets and preparing for future green bond issuances.

Tiguist outlined ongoing reforms aimed at macroeconomic stability, financial sector modernization and job creation, while McDowell reiterated the bank’s commitment to supporting sustainable growth.

Both sides identified the European Union’s Global Gateway initiative as an opportunity to attract investment into transport, energy and digital infrastructure, strengthening Ethiopia’s role in regional economic integration.

Source (including image): Ethiopian News Agency