Ethiopia’s prime minister had three productive meetings on Friday 27 July.
Abiy Ahmed met the vice president of the United States, Mike Pence who praised “the historic reform efforts” undertaken by Abiy since assuming power in April, the White House said in a statement.
Pence noted Abiy’s efforts at “improving respect for human rights, reforming the business environment, and making peace with Eritrea,” the statement said.
“The two leaders underscored their countries’ shared values and their commitment to building an even stronger partnership in the days ahead”.
Under Abiy, Ethiopia has instituted reforms including releasing prisoners, diluting state control of the economy and making peace with northern neighbour Eritrea after two decades of hostility.
He also met with International Monetary Fund Managing Director Christine Lagarde, who said they had “an engaging and productive meeting.”
“I reiterated the IMF’s commitment to work with the Ethiopian authorities to ensure that the economy achieves high rates of sustainable and inclusive growth to reduce poverty,” she said in a statement.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed then held talks with World Bank Group President Jim Yong Kim, in Washington DC.
The two sides discussed on a range of issues including, future of disruptive technology, human capital, sustainable debt financing, and risk of debt distress.
Prime Minister said, “We’ve started big dreams, and we have the potential to realise our dreams”.
The Premier further said Ethiopia’s highest potential is human capital, in which he said, the youth account for 70 per cent of the country’s population.
But he added, “Our dream remains to be a dream if we fail to tap this potential”. The Ethiopian government is committed to fight against corruption and improve the livelihoods of its people.
Jim Yong Kim for his part said the World Bank Group is ready to provide robust support to Ethiopia.
“We’ve been closely following you ever since you took office, and we commend your efforts of establishing a transparent and accountable structure. We endorse the reforms being taken and we support your efforts”.
