Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed Holds Unannounced Diplomatic Meeting with French President Macron in Paris

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In a move highlighting the strategic importance of bilateral relations, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed made a surprise visit to Paris for high-level talks with French President Emmanuel Macron. This marked their first official encounter since February 2023 and underscores a renewed commitment to strengthening diplomatic and developmental ties between Ethiopia and France.

Though the visit was kept under wraps until after its conclusion, official sources from both Addis Ababa and Paris later confirmed that the two leaders engaged in extensive discussions. Key areas of focus included regional security dynamics, avenues for economic collaboration, and enhancing technical cooperation in critical sectors.

This visit comes at a time when France is intensifying its engagement with Africa, and particularly with strategic nations like Ethiopia. Positioned in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia holds geopolitical significance for both continental and international stability, especially in areas relating to peace and security.

During the meeting, President Macron and Prime Minister Abiy reviewed progress on earlier agreements that span several sectors, ranging from infrastructure development and defense cooperation to education and cultural exchange. The discussions also touched on Ethiopia’s broad economic reform agenda, which seeks to liberalise the economy and attract foreign investment, as well as the country’s leading role in regional diplomacy.

Ethiopia’s influence within the African Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) further reinforces its position as a vital partner in peacebuilding initiatives across East Africa.

Analysts interpret the visit as part of a broader strategy by European powers—especially France—to deepen their engagement with Africa under frameworks such as Team Europe. This initiative aims to foster cooperative partnerships that deliver on shared interests like sustainable development, climate action, and security.

France sees Ethiopia as a linchpin in efforts to combat terrorism, ensure maritime security along the Red Sea corridor, and promote climate resilience. These shared interests form the foundation of a dynamic and evolving partnership.

This high-profile meeting is expected to catalyse new programs in areas such as development finance, renewable energy initiatives, and enhanced private sector collaboration. The renewed dialogue may also pave the way for future multilateral projects, particularly those aligned with EU priorities and global development goals.

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The Paris meeting serves as a reaffirmation of both Ethiopia’s and France’s intent to work closely in addressing complex global and regional issues. With common interests in peace, security, and economic growth, the two nations appear poised to elevate their partnership to new levels of strategic cooperation in the coming years.