Following its independence, Uzbekistan has consistently developed diplomatic relations with countries worldwide, pursuing open and mutually beneficial cooperation. One of the first African nations with which it established official dialogue was the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

On July 15, 1996, Uzbekistan and Ethiopia established diplomatic relations, marking a new chapter in their bilateral engagement. Despite the considerable geographical distance, both countries are united by a shared commitment to dialogue, development, and peace.

Since the establishment of relations, Uzbekistan and Ethiopia have fostered cooperation based on the principles of mutual respect, sovereign equality, and non-interference in each other’s internal affairs. These principles have laid the foundation for political dialogue, economic exchanges, and collaboration within international and regional organizations, including the United Nations and the Non-Aligned Movement.

Despite the currently limited volume of trade and economic ties, both sides have shown interest in developing cooperation in agriculture, the textile industry, pharmaceuticals, science, and education. Ethiopia, as one of the fastest-growing countries in Africa with a population exceeding 120 million, presents significant potential for exporting Uzbek products and advancing joint investment projects.

Uzbekistan, in turn, offers advantageous logistics routes, access to Central Asian and Eurasian markets, as well as extensive experience in agricultural technologies and cotton production – areas that are also relevant to Ethiopia.

In recent years, within the framework of Uzbekistan’s increasingly active foreign policy strategy toward the African continent, there has been growing interest in deepening engagement with Ethiopia. Humanitarian cooperation has gained particular significance, including potential academic exchanges, student education programs, and cultural initiatives aimed at fostering closer ties between the peoples of the two countries.

Twenty-nine years after establishing diplomatic relations, Uzbekistan and Ethiopia remain firmly committed to the principles of partnership, striving to expand their engagement in the spirit of mutually beneficial cooperation and sustainable development.

The strengthening of ties with African countries, including Ethiopia, reflects Tashkent’s new foreign policy philosophy, which aims at global engagement, the pursuit of new markets, and strategic partnerships amid an evolving world order.

Aziza Alimova, UzA