Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — The Ethio-Djibouti Railways, a critical infrastructural project, is playing a vital role in enhancing Ethiopia's national transportation network and boosting regional connectivity, according to House of People's Representatives Speaker Tagesse Chafo. The railway, which began passenger and freight services in January 2018, has become instrumental in promoting industrialization and urbanization along its route, linking Ethiopia directly to the sea.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, the railway line is a significant part of the One Belt One Road Initiative, fostering an open and mutually beneficial cooperative platform between Ethiopia and China. He noted that the railway’s goals align with Ethiopia’s ambitions for progress and prosperity, supporting the nation's strategic integration efforts with China. The One Belt One Road Initiative complements Ethiopia's development focuses in agriculture, industry, information technology, tourism, and mining by enhancing infrastructure like roads.

Transport and Logistics Minister Alemu Seme also highlighted the railway’s critical role in the economic development of Ethiopia’s inland regions. He described how the Ethio-Djibouti Railways facilitates the movement of economic resources, enhances connectivity across various locations, and promotes regional prosperity. The minister emphasized the project’s impact on reducing transportation costs and opening new avenues for economic growth and development between Ethiopia and Djibouti.

The successful operation of the Ethio-Djibouti Railways has not only strengthened the economic ties between the two nations but also contributed to broader regional trade and connectivity. The recent transfer of administrative responsibilities of the railway from the China Railway Construction Corporation (CRCC) to the governments of Ethiopia and Djibouti marks a significant milestone. This handover ceremony, held in Addis Ababa, symbolizes the shift towards local governance of this pivotal infrastructure.