The European Union, encouraged by Ethiopia's new path, sent a positive message to the new government in conclusions adopted without debate by the EU Council on Monday 19 November on the margins of the meeting of EU foreign ministers in Brussels.
After the elections which brought the presidency of the Republic to Mrs Sahle-Work Zewde, the Council notes that Ethiopia has witnessed "momentous change" and that political and economic reforms have gained new momentum, under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (see EUROPE 12126).
The Council welcomes the Government's commitment to multi-party democracy, respect for human rights, the rule of law and gender equality and encourages it to continue along this path. The Council considers that the appointment of a woman to the top of the state and the appointment of 50% women to the Prime Minister's Office, such as the promotion of the role of women in Ethiopian society, "represent important and encouraging steps toward a greater degree of gender equality and inclusiveness".
The Council encourages the Government to continue its efforts in this direction and to develop an inclusive dialogue with all actors - federal and regional authorities, opposition groups, civil society, youth, media - on sustainable solutions leading to better governance, justice and accountability, elections, job creation and a response to security challenges.
The EU expresses its readiness to support Ethiopia's efforts to ensure respect for fundamental rights, encourage religious tolerance and the integration of gender equality into all policies, promote education and employability of women and girls, and eliminate violence against women. Its support will also go to upcoming elections that are "inclusive, credible and transparent".
The Council encourages the government to complete the reforms it has announced to revitalize the economy (improving the investment climate, strengthening the role of the private sector, engaging in multilateral free trade mechanisms). This should help to meet "the crucial need for job creation in a country where two thirds of the population is under the age of 30". He also mentioned the role that the Africa-Europe Alliance could play in promoting sustainable jobs and investment. (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)