Azerbaijan, Ethiopia move to strengthen economic, investment cooperation

Azerbaijan and Ethiopia have held discussions aimed at expanding economic, trade, and investment cooperation, with a focus on industry, energy, agriculture, and logistics, Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Economy said.

According to the ministry, a delegation led by First Deputy Minister of Economy Elnur Aliyev visited Ethiopia and held talks with Ethiopia’s Minister of Trade and Regional Integration Kassahun Gofe, Caliber.Az reports. 

During the meeting, both sides emphasised the importance of strengthening the legal and institutional framework for bilateral economic cooperation. They also discussed the organisation of reciprocal business missions, closer engagement between business communities, and measures to encourage investment flows.

In separate talks with Ethiopia’s State Minister for Mining Birhani Yadesa, the sides explored potential cooperation in energy and natural resources, including renewable energy projects.

Further discussions also covered industrial zones and logistics development, with Azerbaijani officials highlighting investment opportunities in the country’s industrial parks, the Alat Free Economic Zone, and in territories undergoing post-conflict reconstruction, where various incentives are offered to investors.

Meetings were also held with African Union Commissioner Moses Vilakati, focusing on agriculture, food security, water resource management, and rural development. The sides exchanged views on innovation in agriculture and sustainable development practices.

Azerbaijan’s strategic location at the crossroads of major East–West and North–South transport corridors was also highlighted during the talks as a key factor for expanding trade links with African countries.

Officials said the visit is expected to contribute to broader economic cooperation between Azerbaijan, Ethiopia, and the African Union, and help identify new areas for long-term partnership.

By Sabina Mammadli