EU reaffirms continued support to Ethiopia’s reform agenda

Addis Ababa, October 9, 2020 (FBC) –President Sahle-Work Zewde yesterday held talks with Josep Borrell, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the Commission.

Borrell was accompanied by Janez Lenarcic, European Commissioner for Crisis Management in charge of European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid.

After the discussion, President Sahle-Work tweeted that “I had a fruitful discussion” with Josep Borrell.

Borrell also met with Gedu Andargachew, Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs to exchange view on ways of strengthening relations between the Union and Ethiopia.

Gedu took the opportunity to thank the European Union member states for the comprehensive support they extend to the development endeavors of Ethiopia.

He also provided a briefing to Borrell on the ongoing Ethiopian socioeconomic reforms, the status of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) talks, and Ethiopia’s critical role in peace-building activities in the region.

Borrell commended the reforms in Ethiopia and reiterated that the EU would continue to assist the Ethiopian Government in this regard.

The EU is interested in working with Ethiopia on matters of climate change, irregular migration, building a digital economy, and human rights, Borrell added.

Earlier, Borrell also met with Prime Minister Dr Abiy Ahmed to discuss bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest.