Ethiopian Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, Kassahun Gofe, met with Elnur Aliyev, Azerbaijan's First Deputy Minister of Economy, in Addis Ababa on May 7, 2026, to enhance bilateral trade. This engagement builds on the positive momentum from Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's February 2026 visit to Baku, aiming to deepen relations. Both ministers recognized that current trade levels do not reflect the economic potential of their respective countries and stressed the need to increase commercial cooperation and identify new trade avenues. Minister Gofe detailed Ethiopia’s reform initiatives, which are fostering a more open and attractive business climate for Azerbaijani investors interested in Ethiopia's growing market. He also positioned Ethiopia as a key African entry point via the AfCFTA, potentially offering Azerbaijan wider continental market access. Aliyev reiterated Azerbaijan’s dedication to strengthening economic ties and exploring new collaborative ventures with Ethiopia.