Addis ababa: The Ethiopian Railways Corporation (ERC) and COIPA Italia S.p.A. have signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement to enhance railway infrastructure development efforts in Ethiopia. This landmark agreement was formalized by ERC CEO Eng. Hlina Belachew and COIPA Italia S.p.A. CEO Vito Favorito, marking a significant step in the collaboration between the two entities.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the signing ceremony was graced by the presence of Ethiopia’s Minister of Transport and Logistics, Alemu Sime, who also serves as the Chairman of the ERC Board, alongside the Italian Ambassador to Ethiopia, Agostino Palese. COIPA Italia has set its sights on transforming Africa’s energy and infrastructure sectors by leveraging partnerships with Italian and European industrial companies. The firm aims to utilize advanced technology and sustainable practices to foster energy transition and infrastructure projects across the continent.
Minister Alemu Sime remarked that the agreement is not merely a partnership but a “bridge between Ethiopia and Italy, built on shared values of progress, innovation, and sustainable development.” He highlighted the critical role of railways in Ethiopia’s economic transformation and emphasized that collaborations with companies like COIPA Italia are pivotal in advancing modern, efficient, and environmentally friendly transport systems. Alemu also expressed gratitude towards the Italian government for its ongoing cooperation and commended COIPA Italia’s dedication.
Ambassador Agostino Palese underscored the agreement’s significance, emphasizing the need to focus on achieving tangible results. He described the Ethiopia-Italy relationship as “excellent” and noted that collaboration in the railway sector represents a crucial new chapter in bilateral economic partnerships.
ERC CEO Eng. Hlina Belachew pointed out that this strategic cooperation aligns with Ethiopia’s objective of developing modern, efficient, and sustainable transport systems. She highlighted that railways serve as key drivers of economic transformation and regional integration by reducing logistics costs, connecting markets, creating employment opportunities, and supporting green development. The partnership with COIPA Italia is expected to facilitate technology transfer, expertise, and investment opportunities within the sector.
COIPA Italia S.p.A. CEO Vito Favorito conveyed his excitement about the agreement, stating that it will pave the way for new collaboration opportunities in Ethiopia’s railway sector.