French President Emmanuel Macron arrived in Ethiopia on Wednesday for an official visit aimed at strengthening ties with Addis Ababa and discussing regional developments in the Horn of Africa.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed welcomed Emmanuel Macron in the capital Addis Ababa, describing the French leader’s third official trip to Ethiopia since 2019 as a sign of the “strong friendship” between the two countries.
In a statement posted on X, Abiy said both sides were looking forward to “meaningful conversations” during the visit.
Macron’s trip comes amid growing diplomatic activity in the Horn of Africa, where tensions linked to Red Sea security, regional rivalries and shifting alliances have drawn increased international attention.
France has been seeking to expand its influence and economic presence across East Africa, while Ethiopia has worked to rebuild international partnerships following years of conflict and economic challenges.
In recent years, Paris and Addis Ababa have deepened cooperation in areas such as defense, infrastructure, cultural heritage and economic development, with France emerging as one of Ethiopia’s leading European partners.