Addis Ababa: Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s working visit to Italy was successful, according to Finance Minister Ahmed Shide. During his stay, the premier held extensive discussions with Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican. They have agreed to bolster collaboration in education, global peace, and both bilateral and multilateral affairs. The Vatican has also reiterated its commitment to strengthening Ethiopia’s educational development.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Prime Minister Abiy also held extensive discussions with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni on bilateral issues. The leaders emphasized the deepening ties between their nations. The discussions highlighted Italy’s continued support for Ethiopia’s economic growth and reform as well as energy development. The finance minister noted the steady increase in Italy’s development assistance to Ethiopia in recent years.
He further revealed that agreements in crucial areas, including green development, urban infrastructure, and macroeconomic reform were also
signed during the visit. Moreover, the minister stated that the investment of Italians in the favorable investment climate in Ethiopia was raised in the course of the discussions. Both parties committed to enhancing investment and cooperation across sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and finance.
In addition, the Ethiopian delegation held a productive meeting with Webuild Group CEO Pietro Salini. Prime Minister Abiy extended an invitation for Webuild to expand its investments into sectors like housing, energy, mining, and fertilizer production. The CEO expressed the company’s readiness to undertake large-scale investments aligned with Ethiopia’s development priorities.