Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Frank Garcia visited Ethiopia from September 2 to 6, 2026, to advance U.S. commercial diplomacy, security cooperation and regional stability.
In Addis Ababa, Garcia met Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos to discuss de-escalating conflicts in the Horn of Africa, implementing the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement and supporting regional peace efforts. He also met African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and UN Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy Pekka Haavisto to promote peace, humanitarian access and a truce in Sudan.
At the Bishoftu International Airport construction site, Garcia and Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew Bekele discussed fleet modernization with U.S. aircraft and services. Garcia emphasized American investment and technology as central to the airport’s development, with the U.S. Development Finance Corporation planning significant financing for small and medium enterprises around the project.
In Oromia, Garcia toured modern farms and a John Deere partner in Shashemene, highlighting demand for U.S. agricultural technology and job creation. He also met the American Chamber of Commerce to expand cooperation in aviation and critical minerals.
