July 24, 2025 —H.E. Ato Ahmed Shide today welcomed Mr. Abdullah Almusaibeeh, the newly appointed President of the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA). The Minister was accompanied by the President of the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia, Mr. Abe Sano, and the CEO of the Ethiopian Airlines Group, Mr. Mesfin Tassew.

Minister Ahmed Shide appreciated BADEA’s longstanding support, including the recently approved USD 49.5 million financing for Ethiopia's Integrated Agro-Industrial Parks, as well as critical investments in the road and energy sectors.

The discussions focused on further deepening collaboration in strategic areas, including infrastructure, agriculture, and support to the private sector.

Particular attention was given to large infrastructure projects, such as the new international airport development to scale up regional and global connectivity, the Koysha renewable energy project that will enable energy trading in the region, as well as trade financing.

President Almusaibeeh, on his side, reaffirmed the Bank’s full commitment to scale up engagement in Ethiopia in priority areas that will accelerate the country’s economic development and growth. This commitment includes exploring financing options for the airport project as well as the Koysha project.

The President’s visit comes at a pivotal moment for BADEA, as the institution builds on a legacy of impact under outgoing President Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, who is now the President-elect for the African Development Bank.

During his visit, President Almusaibeeh will also meet with different government officials to discuss priorities for collaboration with the Bank.

The two sides agreed to deepen partnership and to fast-track the Bank’s support for strategic and impactful projects that will benefit Ethiopia’s growth and development aspirations