The United States is moving to strengthen commercial aviation ties with Ethiopia through targeted investments in the planned Bishoftu International Airport while reinforcing the carrier’s longstanding partnership with Boeing, according to the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of African Affairs.

During a high-level meeting with Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew, Assistant Secretary Garcia emphasized Washington’s commitment to ensuring American technology and capital serve as a foundation for the new mega-airport project.

As part of that vision, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation intends to deploy a substantial investment focused on backing small and medium-sized enterprises tied to the airport and its surrounding developments.

The State Department noted that the strategic partnership aims to catalyze economic growth, enable direct non-stop flights between the United States and Ethiopia, and generate job opportunities across both countries.