Ethiopia and Kenya signed a Simplified Border Trade Regime to strengthen cross-border commerce and support border communities. The agreement, signed in Addis Ababa, aims to simplify procedures for small-scale traders and expand access to basic goods through streamlined rules. Officials said the deal will encourage formal trade, reduce illegal cross-border activity, and promote sustainable development, peace, and security along the shared frontier while deepening long-standing bilateral trade cooperation.

Senior German diplomat said Ethiopia’s market-oriented economic reforms are strengthening investor confidence and attracting long-term international interest. Germany’s diplomat noted that policy consistency under the Homegrown Economic Reform program has improved predictability for investors. He cited reforms in capital markets, logistics, and retail liberalization as positive signals. However, he said further improvements in customs efficiency, freight systems, and market access are needed to sustain growth and competitiveness.

Commercial Bank of Ethiopia launched new loan products targeting smallholder farmers and pastoralists to boost agricultural production and productivity. The financing supports crop farming, livestock, dairy, horticulture, and the purchase of machinery and inputs. Officials said improved access to credit will strengthen food supply, expand agricultural value chains, and support export growth, aligning with broader efforts to modernize Ethiopia’s agricultural finance system.

Abiy Ahmed and William Samoei Ruto have reaffirmed their commitment to deeper bilateral ties and durable peace in the Horn of Africa. During a one-day working visit in Addis Ababa, the leaders discussed strengthening cooperation and exchanged views on regional peace and security. Both sides emphasized dialogue, stability, and African-led solutions as essential to addressing shared regional challenges and advancing long-term cooperation.

Hassan Sheikh Mohamud held one-day strategic talks in Addis Ababa with Abiy Ahmed, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations between Somalia and Ethiopia. The leaders discussed cooperation on security, political coordination, and regional issues affecting the Horn of Africa. Both reaffirmed their commitment to a good neighbourhood, mutual respect, and continued dialogue, agreeing to maintain close communication to advance regional stability, security, and shared strategic interests.

Ethiopian lawmakers say closer ties with India offer a strategic platform to advance the interests of developing nations. The remarks followed an official visit by Narendra Modi and his address to Ethiopia’s House of People’s Representatives. MPs said elevating relations to a strategic partnership strengthens diplomatic cooperation, Global South engagement, and mutual support in multilateral forums. Officials noted the move builds on long-standing relations dating back to 1948.