Ethiopia-European Investment Forum In Paris On November 3 To Focus On Growth Sectors Including Tourism, Digital Technology, And Renewable Energy

Published on November 3, 2025

Ethiopia-European Investment Forum, set to take place in Paris on November 3, aims to enhance economic cooperation and attract vital investments in key growth sectors such as aviation, renewable energy, tourism, and digital technology. Organized by MEDEF International in collaboration with the European Commission, this high-level event will bring together government officials, European businesses, and financial institutions to discuss how Ethiopia’s ongoing reforms, coupled with European expertise, can foster sustainable growth and innovation. By focusing on sectors poised for significant development, the forum is expected to drive both economic transformation and closer partnerships between Ethiopia and Europe.

Ethiopia, the European Union, and France are set to host the Ethiopia-European Investment Forum in Paris on November 3, aimed at enhancing economic ties and attracting investment in critical growth sectors. The forum, organized by MEDEF International in partnership with the European Commission, will center on key areas such as aviation, renewable energy, transport and logistics, and digital technology, which are expected to drive the country’s growth and economic transformation.

High-ranking government officials, European business leaders, and financial institutions will attend the event, offering a unique platform to discuss opportunities within the EU’s Global Gateway initiative. The forum’s discussions will delve into strategic investment avenues and how European partnerships can contribute to Ethiopia’s ongoing reforms and development goals.

Foreign Minister Dr. Gedeon Timotheos emphasized that the forum marks a crucial step forward in deepening cooperation between Europe and Ethiopia in innovation, infrastructure, and inclusive growth. By aligning Ethiopia’s development needs with European expertise and resources, both parties aim to boost the country’s economic trajectory while fostering sustainable progress.

According to Finance Minister Ahmed Shide, Ethiopia’s reform agenda, led by the Home-Grown Economic Reform and the Ten-Year Development Plan, is creating numerous opportunities for international investors. “Through our open, resilient, and competitive economic environment, we are inviting the European private sector to play a vital role in realizing our vision for sustainable growth,” Shide remarked. These reforms are designed to encourage private sector participation and foreign investment, particularly in sectors vital for the country’s development.

MEDEF International CEO Philippe Gautier pointed out that Ethiopia is emerging as one of Africa’s most promising investment destinations. European businesses are especially keen on opportunities in green energy, digital infrastructure, and logistics. Ethiopia’s strategic position, abundant natural resources, and commitment to economic diversification have made it an attractive partner for European companies looking to invest in the continent’s rising economies.

Discussions at the forum will shine a spotlight on pivotal projects that have the potential to drive Ethiopia’s growth in the coming years. These include the expansion of Bishoftu Airport and the Logistics Corridor project, which are part of the country’s broader ambition to enhance its infrastructure and connect to regional and global markets more efficiently. Additionally, Ethiopia’s drive to boost renewable energy capacity is expected to garner significant attention, as the country aims to position itself as a leader in sustainable energy production, with a focus on wind, solar, and hydroelectric power.

The forum will also address the broader industrial and economic corridors that Ethiopia is developing as part of its vision for the future. These projects, backed by both local and international investment, are designed to create new job opportunities, stimulate economic activity, and improve the country’s manufacturing capabilities, all while advancing Ethiopia’s industrialization agenda.

Ethiopia’s structural reforms, including the gradual liberalization of state-owned enterprises and the strengthening of industrial and agricultural value chains, have increased the country’s attractiveness to European investors. The liberalization of key sectors is expected to pave the way for more competition, efficiency, and innovation, which will further drive economic development and integration into global supply chains.

The Paris forum is also anticipated to facilitate discussions on financing options and collaborative ventures, which could lead to new partnerships and joint ventures between Ethiopian and European companies. As both regions explore ways to integrate their economies more effectively, the event is expected to play a significant role in forging lasting business relationships and unlocking new growth avenues.

Looking ahead, the forum in Paris will set the stage for the upcoming Africa-EU Conference in Kenya in April 2026, which is expected to further solidify Africa-Europe partnerships. This conference will focus on deepening cooperation between the two continents, with a particular emphasis on sustainable economic development, innovation, and infrastructure.

The Ministry of Finance also highlighted that the Ethiopia-European Investment Forum is indicative of the growing momentum in Ethiopia-EU relations, particularly under the Global Gateway framework. This initiative, which aims to promote sustainable infrastructure investments, will continue to guide the long-term economic engagement between Ethiopia and the EU. The forum, by fostering dialogue between investors and government leaders, underscores the shared commitment to building an inclusive, sustainable, and resilient economic future for Ethiopia.

The Ethiopia-European Investment Forum in Paris on November 3 will focus on strengthening economic ties and attracting investments in sectors like tourism, aviation, and renewable energy. This high-level event aims to leverage Ethiopia’s ongoing reforms and Europe’s expertise to drive sustainable growth and development.

With significant developments already underway and a clear focus on green energy, digital infrastructure, and logistics, Ethiopia is poised to become a key player in the African economy. The partnership with European countries, bolstered by investments in critical sectors, will be a driving force in shaping Ethiopia’s future as a competitive and sustainable economy on the global stage.