Ethiopia and the Netherlands discussed bilateral relations, trade and investment alongside developments in the Horn of Africa, particularly Sudan….reports Africa Daily News Desk
Ethiopia and the Netherlands have discussed bilateral relations, economic cooperation and developments in the Horn of Africa during a meeting on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.
Getachew Reda, Minister and Adviser to the Ethiopian Prime Minister on East African Affairs, met Sjoerd Sjoerdsma, the Netherlands’ Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation. Sjoerdsma has held the ministerial portfolio since February 2026.
The discussions covered bilateral relations and regional issues of mutual interest, with particular attention to developments in the Horn of Africa and the conflict in Sudan.
Getachew briefed Sjoerdsma on the latest developments in the region, particularly the situation in Sudan, and highlighted Ethiopia’s efforts to support peace and stability.
Ethiopia has recently stressed the need for dialogue to address the conflict in Sudan. Getachew said in remarks earlier this month that Sudan’s warring parties should recognise that neither side could secure an outright military victory and give negotiations a chance to end the conflict.
The two officials also discussed bilateral trade, investment and wider economic cooperation between Ethiopia and the Netherlands.
Sjoerdsma expressed the Netherlands’ interest in expanding investment and strengthening economic cooperation with Ethiopia, while stressing the importance of continued high level engagement to deepen cooperation across various fields.
The meeting came as UNGA 81 brings together governments and international organisations to discuss conflicts, development, trade and other global issues. The African Union has identified peace and security, including developments in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region, as key areas of engagement during the General Assembly.
The talks between Ethiopia and the Netherlands highlighted the links between regional stability and economic cooperation, with both sides discussing ways to strengthen their bilateral partnership while addressing issues affecting the wider Horn of Africa.
