Ethiopian Railways Corporation (ERC) has signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Italy’s COIPA International, a move aimed at expanding the country’s rail network and strengthening long-standing economic ties between the two nations.

The agreement was signed in Addis Ababa by Hilina Belachew, chief executive of the Ethiopian Railways Corporation (ERC), and Vito Favorito Sciama Rella, chief executive of COIPA Italia. The framework sets out collaboration on railway infrastructure, technology transfer, and joint development projects.

Alemu Sime, Ethiopia’s transport and logistics minister, described the accord as a “win–win relationship for both countries” and thanked the Italian government for its sustained development support. He said the cooperation would modernise Ethiopia’s logistics systems, foster regional integration, and accelerate growth.

Hilina Belachew said COIPA Italia’s commitment to Ethiopia’s railway vision gave confidence that the partnership would translate into tangible projects and lasting results.

Vito Favorito Sciama Rella emphasised that the deal would bring technology transfer, expertise, and investment opportunities while building long-term institutional capacity within ERC. COIPA has been active in Ethiopia’s transport sector, including rail development and logistics hubs, as part of efforts to modernise infrastructure and support integration across the Horn of Africa.

Italy’s ambassador to Ethiopia, Agostino Palese, said the partnership underscored bilateral relations rooted in mutual economic benefit and would deepen long-term cooperation between the two countries.