ADDIS ABABA—The European Union has reiterated its commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s economic reform, green transition, and international gateway strategy. Planning and Development Minister Fitsum Assefa held discussions with EU International Partnership (INTPA) Director for Sustainable Finance Antti Karhunen during the 4th International Finance for Development (FfD) Preparatory Committee meeting in Addis Ababa.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Director Karhunen, on behalf of the EU, expressed sorrow over the recent loss of life due to the landslide in the Gofa Zone. The EU has pledged financial assistance and has been coordinating with the Federal Disaster Management Commission. Minister Fitsum appreciated the EU’s swift response and underscored the importance of a long-term climate adaptation strategy alongside immediate humanitarian aid.
The discussions also focused on Ethiopia’s efforts to strengthen ties with the European Union. Minister Fitsum highlighted the nearing completion of the legal framework for transitional justice and the establishment of the National Dialogue Commission as crucial for achieving enduring peace in Ethiopia. She outlined Ethiopia’s domestic economic reforms and progress in enhancing competitiveness and the investment climate, despite setbacks from the COVID-19 pandemic and climate-induced challenges.
During the meeting, Director Karhunen reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s economic reform, green transition, and international gateway strategy, mentioning that the EU is contributing 650 million euros through the Multilateral Annual Indicator Program (MIP). Minister Fitsum emphasized the importance of Ethiopia’s involvement in the MIP planning and execution to ensure alignment with the country’s developmental goals and called for the reinstatement of EU budget support, which is vital for Ethiopia’s economic reform strategy.
The minister also raised concerns about the new EU Deforestation-Free Regulation (EUDR), noting that its rushed implementation could negatively impact millions of Ethiopian coffee producers. She requested additional time for Ethiopia to meet the regulation’s requirements, emphasizing the need for compatibility with international climate accords.