Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Arrives in Ethiopia for Official Visit
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan Arrives in Ethiopia for Official Visit
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia – 17 February 2026
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan arrived in Addis Ababa on Tuesday for an official visit, marking a significant step in strengthening ties between Türkiye and Ethiopia.
At Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, Erdoğan and his delegation were warmly welcomed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos, and Turkish Ambassador Berk Baran.
The visit underscores the growing diplomatic and economic partnership between the two nations, with both sides signaling a shared commitment to deepening bilateral relations.
Warm Welcome from Ethiopian Leadership
In a post on the social media platform X, Prime Minister Abiy expressed his "greatest pleasure to warmly welcome" President Erdoğan to "the Land of Origins," emphasizing that the visit reflects the "strength of the deep partnership" between the two nations.
"From Ankara to Addis Ababa, I look forward to productive discussions that will further deepen cooperation and strengthen the enduring bonds between our two ancient nations," Abiy added.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
The visit is expected to focus on expanding diplomatic, economic, and cultural cooperation, building on the longstanding relationship between Türkiye and Ethiopia.
Key areas of discussion are anticipated to include trade, investment, infrastructure development, and regional security cooperation.
Historical Context
Türkiye and Ethiopia have maintained diplomatic relations for decades, with ties deepening significantly in recent years through increased trade volume, Turkish investments in Ethiopia, and high-level diplomatic exchanges.
Ethiopia is one of Türkiye's key partners in Africa, with Turkish presence in the country spanning construction, education, and humanitarian aid sectors.
Delegation and Talks
President Erdoğan is accompanied by a high-level delegation including ministers and business representatives, suggesting that economic partnerships will feature prominently in the discussions.
The visit signals Türkiye's continued commitment to strengthening its presence and partnerships across the African continent.
Official Reactions
The warm reception and public statements from both sides indicate the importance both nations place on this relationship. Observers note that this visit could pave the way for new agreements in trade, defense, and cultural exchange.
Prime Minister Abiy's reference to "ancient nations" highlights the deep historical connections between two civilizations that have long served as bridges between continents.
Looking Ahead
The outcomes of President Erdoğan's visit are expected to include signed agreements and joint initiatives that will further cement the Türkiye-Ethiopia partnership in the coming years.
#TürkiyeEthiopiaRelations | #DiplomaticVisit | #AfricaPartnership
