Ambassador Eshete Tilahun Held Discussion with EEAS Managing Director for Africa.

H.E. Mr. Eshete Tilahun, Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to the European Union and the BENELUX countries, held a productive discussion on July 10, 2025, with H.E. Ambassador Rita Laranjinha, Managing Director for Africa at the European External Action Service. The meeting focused on a wide range of bilateral, regional, and international issues of mutual interest.

Ambassador Eshete briefed Ambassador Laranjinha on Ethiopia’s preparations to host the 4th United Nations Food Systems Summit (UNFSS+4) and requested for response on the matter for high-level participation from European Union institutions. He also called for strong EU engagement in the upcoming African Union Climate Summit, to be held in September 2025 in Addis Ababa.

The two sides discussed pressing regional developments, including the crisis in the Sudan, the situation in Somalia, and broader issues related to migration and visa policies. Ambassador Eshete conveyed Ethiopia’s concerns over restrictive policies that could hinder movement and cooperation.

Ambassador Eshete also raised the impact of the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR) on Ethiopian agricultural exports, emphasizing the need for fair and development-sensitive implementation to protect smallholder farmers. Ambassador Laranjinha acknowledged these concerns and expressed the EU’s position to continued technical dialogue to ensure balanced and practical solutions.

On regional security, He reaffirmed Ethiopia’s firm commitment to peaceful coexistence, highlighting the government’s deliberate efforts to de-escalate any tensions. Ambassador Laranjinha commended Ethiopia’s position on de-escalation and emphasized the EU’s support for regional stability and constructive engagement.