Macron welcomes Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed

The meeting between French President Emmanuel Macron and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Paris aimed to restore and normalize diplomatic relations between France and Ethiopia. These relations had been strained due to the Tigray War, a conflict that erupted between the Ethiopian government and Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) forces. The war led to significant humanitarian crises, with reports of widespread atrocities and displacement of civilians. The international community, including France, expressed concern over the situation, prompting calls for dialogue and resolution. Macron's welcoming of Abiy Ahmed signified a shift towards engagement and support for peace efforts in the region. During their discussions, Macron emphasized the importance of stability in the Horn of Africa and the need for Ethiopia to address the humanitarian needs resulting from the conflict. The meeting also highlighted France's interest in strengthening economic ties with Ethiopia, which is seen as a key player in the region. The normalization of relations is expected to facilitate cooperation in various sectors, including trade, security, and development. This diplomatic engagement reflects a broader strategy by France to enhance its influence in Africa and support democratic governance and human rights in the continent.