Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has laid the foundation stone for the construction of the Lamu oil refinery in Kenya, marking a major milestone in bilateral relations. During the ceremony, the Prime Minister emphasized that neighbors bound by geography are partners who reinforce understanding through dialogue, reflecting on how Ethiopia and Kenya successfully transformed simple neighborliness into a deep strategic partnership.

This strong alliance dates back to 1963, when Kenya gained its independence. Established by Emperor Haile Selassie and President Jomo Kenyatta, the historic bond was further fortified by a joint defense agreement signed in 1964. Through successive changes in leadership over the decades, the friendship between the two nations has remained steadfast and unwavering.

Beyond political cooperation, the relationship has evolved into significant economic integration. Key highlights of this partnership include the Lamu Port transport corridor, the Moyale One-Stop Border Post, Ethiopia’s supply of renewable electric power to Kenya, and Safaricom’s multi-billion-dollar investment in Ethiopia.

In terms of regional security, the two countries actively collaborate to counter terrorist groups while resolving occasional border disagreements through mature diplomacy at the negotiation table. They also remain at the forefront of maintaining peace across the region within both the Intergovernmental Authority on Development and the African Union.

Rooted in mutual benefit, the refined diplomacy practiced by Ethiopia and Kenya serves as a benchmark for Africa.