Hanoi, April 16, 2025 — The Europe Today: Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali held official talks in Hanoi on Tuesday afternoon, focusing on key strategies to elevate cooperation between the two nations.
Prime Minister Ali, who is in Vietnam for a state visit and to attend the fourth Partnership for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 (P4G) Summit, marked a historic moment as this is the first official visit by a high-level Ethiopian leader since the establishment of diplomatic relations nearly 50 years ago.
The talks centered on opening a new chapter in Vietnam-Ethiopia relations, with both leaders aiming to foster more comprehensive, effective, and meaningful bilateral ties. Prime Minister Chính highlighted the growing influence of both Vietnam and Ethiopia in their respective regions, underscoring the importance of continued cooperation.
“The amicable and cooperative ties between the two countries should continue to develop in a practical manner, bringing tangible benefits to the people and the development of both nations,” PM Chính said.
Prime Minister Chính also expressed admiration for Ethiopia’s impressive economic growth, noting its consistent double-digit growth despite numerous challenges. PM Ali, in turn, expressed his deep gratitude for Vietnam’s warm hospitality and praised the country’s remarkable resilience, which has been pivotal in its national development.
“I have heard many admirable things about Vietnam, but it is only upon arriving here that I witnessed the country’s transformation, especially with its numerous industrial zones,” said Prime Minister Ali.
Both leaders acknowledged the many similarities between their countries, particularly as developing nations with large, dynamic populations. Ethiopia, with a population of approximately 130 million, is experiencing rapid demographic growth, with 70% of its population being young, and 30 million students expected to play a pivotal role in Africa’s future.
“Alongside the scale of our population, we are also striving to reform our economy with new policies,” Ali added.
Bilateral trade between Vietnam and Ethiopia has seen steady growth, reaching approximately US$10-15 million annually. In 2024, the trade volume amounted to $13.1 million, with Vietnam’s exports totaling $7.11 million and imports at $6.06 million. Both countries continue to collaborate actively in various multilateral forums, and Ethiopia officially recognized Vietnam as a market economy in 2014.
Following the talks, the two leaders oversaw the signing of several cooperation agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at enhancing collaboration in key areas such as trade, education, and direct air travel.
The discussions set a promising foundation for future bilateral cooperation, highlighting the shared commitment to sustainable development, economic growth, and regional stability.
