Ethiopia is accelerating its economic reform drive through a renewed strategic partnership with the World Bank Group (WBG), following a high-level meeting on the sidelines of the 2025 World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C.

Led by Finance Minister Ahmed Shide, Ethiopia’s delegation including National Bank Governor Mamo Mihretu, Senior Advisor to the Prime Minister Teklewold Atnafu, and Finance State Minister Eyob Tekalign (PhD) met with Anna Bjerde, WBG Managing Director for Operations, to chart a strengthened path forward for Ethiopia’s development agenda.

Minister Ahmed expressed the country’s deep gratitude for the World Bank’s ongoing technical and financial assistance, crediting it as a pillar of support in Ethiopia’s sweeping reform journey. He underscored the government’s commitment to modernization, private sector growth, and job creation key drivers of inclusive economic transformation.

In response, Bjerde lauded Ethiopia’s reform momentum, highlighting notable progress such as a sharp decline in inflation, surging export earnings (especially from gold), improved domestic revenue generation, and a significantly better business climate. She emphasized the country’s resilience amid global uncertainties, attributing its progress to sound macroeconomic policies and bold reform actions over the past nine months.

The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their shared vision to deepen collaboration. Discussions also explored enhanced World Bank support for Ethiopia’s national development priorities and regional integration agenda.

Bjerde urged Ethiopia to sustain its reform pace and accelerate key development projects critical to long-term growth and stability. The renewed partnership signals a promising future as Ethiopia pushes toward an inclusive, resilient, and modernized economy.