In an exclusive interview with Capital, Leo Vinovezky, Israel’s Director of Economic Affairs for Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean, discusses the evolving trade relations between Ethiopia and Israel. Having previously served as the Deputy Ambassador to Ethiopia, Leo Vinovezky reflects on his emotional return to the country and the significant strides made in economic cooperation since the reestablishment of diplomatic ties in the 1990s. He highlights key sectors of collaboration, including agriculture and technology, and emphasizes the importance of initiatives like “Avocado Diplomacy,” which showcases Ethiopia’s growing export capabilities. As both nations seek to strengthen their economic partnership, Leo Vinovezky outlines future opportunities for collaboration and the role of cultural exchanges in fostering mutual understanding. Excerpts;
Capital: How have Ethiopia and Israel’s trade relations evolved over the years?
Leo Vinovezky: Well, first of all, allow me to begin by telling you that it is my first visit to Ethiopia since 2016. I served in Addis as Deputy m Ambassador of Israel between 2012-2016. For me, coming back is very important and emotional. My family and I love Ethiopia very much. In my current position, I am responsible for the economic ties with Africa and Latin America. Over the years, trade relations between Ethiopia and Israel have grown, with cooperation expanding in sectors like agriculture, innovation and technology, cybersecurity and public health. These relations have intensified, particularly after the reestablishment of official diplomatic ties in the 1990s, with an increasing focus on trade, investment, and development cooperation, notably on horticulture. As a result of this joint effort between Ethiopia, Israel and the US, Ethiopia has begun exporting avocado to European countries. Export quality means the same color, same texture, same taste, same size and so on. I have coined this project “Avocado Diplomacy”. Our embassy in Addis Ababa works tirelessly promoting economic and commercial opportunities for the ecosystems in the two countries. In the coming days, an important delegation of Israeli businessmen, entrepreneurs and investors will be meeting with Ethiopian high officials.
Capital: How do Israeli agricultural technology and expertise contribute to Ethiopia’s development?
Leo Vinovezky: Israel’s agricultural technology and expertise, particularly in irrigation, water management, tissue engineering culture and crop improvement, have significantly contributed to Ethiopia’s agricultural development. Israeli innovations have helped Ethiopia boost its productivity, conserve water, and enhance food security.
Capital: How have Israel’s diplomatic relations with Ethiopia influenced its economic cooperation?
Leo: Since Israel’s diplomatic relations with Ethiopia were reestablished back in the ‘90s, the two countries have strengthened economic cooperation, with Israel providing support for Ethiopia’s development goals. These diplomatic ties have facilitated trade agreements, investment, and collaborative projects, notably in areas like agriculture, infrastructure, and so on. Even before that, during the ‘60s, many buildings in Addis Ababa were built by Israeli construction companies. Flowers grown in Ethiopia based on Israeli techniques and technologies are exported to the Netherlands, for example. The fact that we have an important and strong Ethiopian-born Israeli community in Israel represents a true bridge of love and friendship between the two nations.
Capital: What role has Ethiopia played in Israel’s policy in Africa, and how does that impact economic relations?
Leo Vinovezky: Ethiopia has been a key player in Israel’s broader policy in Africa, serving as a strategic partner in the Horn of Africa. Its role as a regional leader has bolstered Israel’s presence in the region, fostering economic and diplomatic engagement with other African nations. In a way, Ethiopia is the gate to Israel and to Africa. And of course also because of Ethiopian Airlines. Israel is also the only external country in the world connected geographically to Africa.
Capital: What do you think should be emphasized in a different way during your working visit to Ethiopia? In addition to this, how do you see the economic reform in the country?
Leo Vinovezky: During previous working visits to Ethiopia, Israeli and Ethiopian teams emphasized strengthening bilateral economic cooperation and focusing on areas such as technology transfer, infrastructure development, and trade facilitation. I personally participated in a roundtable discussion organized by the Israel Export Institute and led by the Ambassador of Ethiopia to Israel. Economic reforms and flexibility may create platforms to attract foreign investment and enhance economic growth. We should share more economic information to better understand the business environment and culture. Every time an Israeli Ambassador is appointed, the Federation of Chambers of Commerce in Israel organizes a round of talks with Israeli business leaders from the different sectors. We also have a strong bond with the bilateral chambers of commerce and with the Israel-Africa Chamber of Commerce. A few more examples: a year ago, we organized in our Ministry of Foreign Affairs an economic forum honoring the visit of the President of Zambia. Every time our Minister of Foreign Affairs visits a country, we organize a commercial delegation for B2B and G2G meetings. That’s why we also encourage the foreign embassies in Israel to invite their businessmen and businesswomen to join high officials and leaders visiting Israel.
Capital: What is the role of the Ethiopian Jewish community in fostering economic ties between the two nations?
Leo Vinovezky: The Ethiopian Jewish community has played a pivotal role in fostering ties between the two countries, helping deepen mutual understanding, contributing to diplomatic, cultural and economic exchanges between the nations. As I said, a true bridge of love and friendship.
Capital: What are the main sectors in which Israeli businesses are involved in Ethiopia? Also, how much has Israel’s invested in the economy over the years?
Leo Vinovezky: Israeli businesses are involved primarily in sectors such as precision agriculture, food processing, health devices, construction, space, and water management, all of them based on innovation technology. I would like to emphasize that two important entities in Israel lead the manufacturing sector: the Israeli Manufacturers Association and the Kibbutz Industry Association. Regarding Ethiopia, Israel’s investment has focused on those areas to foster development and promote economic growth, though the total amount of investment has grown steadily over time. I want to remind the readers that back in 2013, Israel was finally accepted to the UNDP Development Partners Group, based on its historical partnership and contribution to Ethiopia.
Capital: What kind of humanitarian aid or development assistance has Israel provided to Ethiopia?
Leo Vinovezky: Israel has provided significant humanitarian aid and development assistance to Ethiopia, particularly in the fields of agriculture, water management, and healthcare. When needed, Israeli aid has also been directed towards disaster relief and poverty reduction efforts. Medical missions from Israel are coming to Ethiopia several times per year, doing diagnostic treatments and surgery in different disciplines.
Capital: How has Israel supported Ethiopia’s efforts in education, health, and technological development?
Leo Vinovezky: Israel has been instrumental in Ethiopia’s education and health sectors, offering technical assistance, training, and expertise. Israel has also provided support in technological development, particularly in the form of innovative solutions for water management and agriculture. Thousands of Ethiopian professionals are alumni of our MASHAV development programs and courses, and we also have many alumni from Israeli universities.
Capital: How do tourism and cultural exchanges between Israel and Ethiopia contribute to their economic ties?
Leo Vinovezky: We can visit each other in 4 hours. Tourism and cultural exchanges between Israel and Ethiopia contribute to their economic ties by fostering mutual understanding, enhancing tourism revenues, and promoting investment. Ethiopia’s rich historical and cultural connections with Israel also provide a foundation for deepened tourism and cultural interactions. Ethiopians are visiting religious sites in Israel. We should multiply this reciprocally. Every Israeli I meet I recommend them to discover Ethiopia, through its landscapes, eskesta dances and music, churches, coffee and so on.
Capital: What challenges have both countries faced in strengthening their economic relationship?
Leo Vinovezky: Both countries face universal challenges in strengthening their economies. Those challenges, like global political instability or trade barriers, affect the world economy. Regarding egarding our two countries, there is a need for enhanced bilateral agreements. We are working now to promote professional dialogue between economic institutions from both countries.
Capital: What are the potential opportunities for expanding their economic partnership in the future?
Leo Vinovezky: Opportunities for expanding economic partnership may include greater collaboration in renewable energy, infrastructure development, high-tech industries, and education. Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms and Israel’s expertise in these areas create potential for further expansion in trade and investment. Israel would love to continue importing Ethiopian goods and products.
