By Haile Henok Tadele – Like the radiant colors of dawn after a moonless night, Ethiopia is stirring to life following its peace accord, as diplomatic channels reopen and opportunity glimmers on the horizon. But will morning’s light rekindle the economic miracle that once shone so brightly across this ancient land?
Prior to the Tigray conflict, Ethiopia experienced over a decade of remarkable growth, with GDP expanding by 10% annually. Massive investments in infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing, education, and healthcare drove steep declines in poverty.
Tragically, the 21-month war reversed many of these gains, damaging infrastructure and impeding trade, displacing millions, and pushing millions back into poverty and also displacing millions and pushing legions back into destitution. Recovery will likely require years of toil. Diplomatic ties also deteriorated, as wary allies watched the violence with unease.
But now, the olive branch of peace has begun mending these ruptures. Once more, emissaries from Washington, Beijing, Tokyo and beyond are extending warm greetings in Addis Ababa, fortifying bonds as the November 2, 2022 peace agreement between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) has sparked a dramatic revival of the country’s diplomatic standing.
In the turbulent months before the deal, relations with world powers like the United States and European Union had deteriorated over concerns about the conflict in northern Ethiopia. However, the landmark agreement has led to renewed engagement from the international community.
Following the accord, high-level delegations from influential countries worldwide have visited Addis Ababa, meeting with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to build closer ties. Major visiting nations include the US, China, Japan, Germany, France, Italy, Hungary, Slovenia, Colombia, Kenya, India and Somalia. This sudden high-profile interest signals Ethiopia’s restored diplomatic credibility.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s visit to mend strained relations was highly symbolic. Despite past tensions, Blinken praised Ethiopia’s peace deal progress and committed to strengthening long-standing US-Ethiopia ties. Prime Minister Abiy later tweeted that they had agreed to fortify their partnership.
In January 2023, new Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang chose Ethiopia for his first overseas trip in office. This highlighted China’s steadfast support for Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa, while reaffirming China’s endorsement of the peace process.
Qin met with Abiy and top ministers to discuss bilateral relations, the peace deal, and China’s ambitious Belt and Road infrastructure initiative in Africa. The visit underscored China’s continued commitment to Ethiopia, backing of the peace agreement, and desire for more investment opportunities.
Beyond the US and China, Ethiopia has repaired damaged ties with the UK, France, Japan and more. These countries have applauded the deal and reiterated support for Ethiopia’s government.
Prime Minister Abiy’s participation at the high-profile UN Food Systems Summit also enabled impactful diplomatic outreach for Ethiopia.
The revived international engagement shows the peace deal unlocked new diplomatic opportunities for Ethiopia. The agreement has facilitated the country’s reception back into the global community, opening avenues for cooperation and assistance.
With cautious optimism, Ethiopia can now focus on national rebuilding and reconciliation. Continued involvement of allies will be indispensable as Ethiopia pursues lasting stability and prosperity.
Alongside mending political ties, Ethiopia has pursued economic diplomacy to attract investment and aid. For instance, Ethiopia has partnerships with countries like China, the UAE, Turkey, and Russia focused on trade, infrastructure funding, and development.
World Bank President Ajay’ recent visit highlighted multilateral support for Ethiopia’s economic reform agenda. Ethiopia’s strategic location, robust growth, and liberalization commitment make it an appealing partner. The World Bank seeks to support Ethiopia’s emergence as a regional economic powerhouse.
Rekindling Investor Faith
In times of turmoil, opportunism emerges as vultures circle the imperiled. When conflict cast doubt over Ethiopia, neighboring rivals swooped in, hoping to lure away skittish foreign capital and enrich their own nests. Yet now, as Ethiopia spreads its renewed wings, rebuilding investor confidence remains an uphill fight.
Past divisions damaged Ethiopia’s reputation with cautious businesses overseas. While rivals still peddle stability and incentives, they cannot completely replace Ethiopia’s economic eminence. For investors, doubts linger like receding storm clouds after the winds of war.
Still, through prudent governance and bold outreach, Ethiopia can regain lost trust. Its vast potential glimmers like rays of sunlight breaking through the clouds. From a bountiful consumer base to untapped natural riches, wise leadership can spotlight the prospect of prosperity.
With vision and tenacity, olive branches can blossom into economic growth. Policy reforms and transparency will seed fertile ground for investment. Though the terrain remains steep, by confronting past failings with honesty and charting a course toward harmony, Ethiopia can take flight again.
Patience and care are required to help damaged petals bloom once more. But united in common purpose, Ethiopia’s people can nurture a prosperous future. The path ahead may be arduous, but the horizon awash in hope. Where faith and forgiveness take root, trust and progress can blossom again.