Dr. Eyob Tekalign, Governor of the National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE), met with Neil Beck, Assistant United States Trade Representative (AUSTR) for WTO and Multilateral Affairs, to discuss the final stretch of Ethiopia's World Trade Organization (WTO) accession negotiations.

The Governor provided an update on the outcomes of the Sixth Working Party Meeting and the key domestic reforms implemented since then. He firmly stated Ethiopia's commitment to concluding its accession by March 2026, coinciding with the WTO's 14th Ministerial Conference (MC14) in Yaoundé, Cameroon.

Dr. Eyob stressed that the country's drive for membership is not merely driven by a timeline, but by "concrete work, diligence, and a leadership that recognizes the potential to bring about a structural transformation in trade." He assured the AUSTR of Ethiopia's dedication to meeting all necessary requirements for joining the global trade body.

Furthermore, the NBE Governor detailed the status of ongoing bilateral negotiations on market access and the substantial support Ethiopia is receiving from various member states and international organizations. He called on the United States to similarly intensify its engagement.

In response, the U.S. Trade Representative, Neil Beck, acknowledged the comprehensive reforms underway in Ethiopia and commended the progress made toward WTO membership, encouraging the nation to "continue on its current path." He pledged that the U.S. would engage sincerely and provide transparent communication regarding the conditions Ethiopia must meet for successful accession.