The Ethiopian Railways Corporation (ERC) and Italian firm COIPA Italia S.p.A. have signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement to strengthen collaboration in railway infrastructure development.

The agreement was signed by ERC CEO Hlina Belachew and COIPA Italia CEO Vito Favorito, in the presence of Ethiopia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Alemu Sime, who also chairs the ERC Board, and Italian Ambassador to Ethiopia, Agostino Palese.

Minister Alemu described the deal as more than a business arrangement, calling it “a bridge between Ethiopia and Italy, built on shared values of progress, innovation, and sustainable development.” He stressed the central role of railways in Ethiopia’s economic transformation, citing their potential to reduce logistics costs, boost regional trade, and support green development.

Ambassador Palese welcomed the agreement, highlighting the relationship between Ethiopia and Italy and urging a focus on tangible results.

ERC CEO said the partnership aligned with Ethiopia’s priority of building modern, efficient, and sustainable transport systems, while fostering technology transfer and investment. COIPA Italia CEO Vito Favorito expressed optimism, noting the deal would open new avenues for collaboration in Ethiopia’s railway sector.

Source (including image): Ethiopian News Agency