10 April 2024
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Ethiopia has refuted claims that it is seeking membership in the East African Community (EAC), according to a statement from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Nebiu Tedla.
Earlier reports from Kenyan state media outlet, Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC), suggested Ethiopia was on the verge of becoming the EAC’s ninth member. However, Mr. Tedla dismissed this information as “baseless.”
Mr. Tedla emphasized that Ethiopia is currently prioritizing the implementation of the AfCFTA, a continent-wide free trade agreement.
The EAC, a trading bloc of eight East African nations, has expressed interest in expanding its membership.
Secretary-General Peter Mathuki previously stated that Ethiopia’s inclusion would increase the trading bloc’s population to over 500 million.
With the addition of Somalia earlier this year, the EAC is reportedly evaluating policies to establish a single currency for member states.
Secretary-General Mathuki also highlighted the EAC’s long-term goal of becoming a leading economic community globally.
He emphasized the importance of open borders and fostering collaboration among member airlines to facilitate affordable air travel within the region.
