Addis Ababa, April 1, 2025 (ENA) —- Canada’s relationship with Ethiopia has been growing significantly, with increasing diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people ties, Canada’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Joshua Tabah said.
During a recent conversation with ENA, Ambassador Tabah indicated that their bond is characterized as “mature, resilient, and growing,” noting that this partnership was founded upon solid interpersonal relationships dating back to when official relations commenced in 1965.
Currently, more than 50,000 Ethiopians reside in Canada, and approximately 5,000 Canadians live in Ethiopia, thereby enhancing mutual diplomatic ties even further.
A major sign of the growing relationship is the increase in direct flights between Addis Ababa and Toronto, with flights now operating daily, which facilitates easier connections between the two countries.
The bilateral relationship between Canada and Ethiopia is advanced, sturdy, and growing. We initially formed diplomatic connections back in 1965, and each subsequent year has seen us strengthen this bond further. This relationship encompasses multiple dimensions. Fundamentally, it revolves around individuals and solid person-to-person bonds. Right from the start, we have played a significant role for Ethiopia. Our collaboration extends into international development efforts, with our trading and business interactions likewise increasing over time.
In terms of economic cooperation, Ambassador Tabah highlighted that Canada’s annual development support to Ethiopia exceeds 200 million USD and focuses on areas such as gender equality, agricultural productivity, and humanitarian aid.
He also noted significant investments, including those by Allied Gold, a Canadian company engaged in a major gold exploration project in the Benishangul-Gumuz region.
Furthermore, Canada’s relationship with Ethiopian Airlines is growing, with Canada supplying aircrafts, flight simulators, and even ice wine for the airline’s flights.
Coffee, handicrafts, and garments from Ethiopia are likewise becoming more prevalent in the Canadian marketplace.
Ambassador Tabah highlighted the significance of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Ethiopia, stressing its key role in boosting trade relations between Canada and Ethiopia.
“Our biggest bilateral development initiative is in Ethiopia, where we have committed approximately $200 million to back Ethiopian goals related to gender equality, securing livelihoods, boosting agricultural output, fostering economic empowerment, as well as providing humanitarian aid.”
Regarding food security and sustainable development, Canada has played an active role in supporting Ethiopia’s initiatives to boost agricultural output and foster gender equality within farming sectors.
Ambassador Tabah stated that Canada is dedicated to aiding Ethiopia with humanitarian assistance, especially during periods of conflict or natural calamities.
Ambassador Tabah, who is also accredited to Djibouti and Sudan besides Ethiopia, discussed Canada’s increasing involvement with Africa at large. He highlighted that Africa has become increasingly significant for Canada’s foreign policy objectives, economic interests, and developmental initiatives.
Canada has unveiled its initial plan for engaging with Africa, focusing on establishing an equal partnership with various African nations and organizations like the African Union.
Moreover, Canada has been backing peace and security efforts in Africa, notably via the African Union Commission. It is also channeling considerable resources into technological advancements and climate-related solutions in nations such as South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya.
Ambassador Tabah likewise emphasized Canada’s backing of Ethiopia’s DDR initiative, notably within the Tigray area.
He stressed that peace is crucial for economic growth, and highlighted that DDR initiatives play a vital role in enhancing stability and fostering social unity.
Canada remains committed to assisting Ethiopia as it works towards hosting more than one million refugees from the Horn of Africa region. This support includes offering financial assistance via groups such as the World Food Programme and UNHCR, along with relocation options for those seeking refuge.
These initiatives aim to foster a robust and vibrant collaboration between Canada and Ethiopia as well as the entire African continent, promoting the region’s progress and security while enhancing trade, fostering peace, and achieving sustainability objectives.
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