Ethio–Sudan bilateral diplomatic relation Since 2011: Review on economic relation

Abstract

AbstractEthiopia has had long-standing bilateral relations with Sudan dating back to ancient period. However, they formally established their relations in 1960s immediately after Sudanese independence. This research attempts to assess their relation since 2011 by focusing on their diplomatic and economic conducts as the main focus. It aims at understanding the factors that contributed for their positive economic relations, by trade and investment as a main focus. To achieve this objective, the study employed qualitative research approach. Data have been collected both from primary and secondary sources by using in-depth interviews were conducted. The findings of the study show that the economic relationships between the two countries are in favor of Sudan. The study identified Ethiopia’s role in settling the longest civil war of two Sudan’s, The Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, mutual interdependency and frequently exchanging high-level visits from both sides are the major factors that shaped the post 2011 Ethio–Sudan relations. Of particular relevance, trade and investment have been the most important sectors boldly visible in the post 2011 Ethio–Sudan economic relations. Foreign direct investment inflow from Sudan also increased in general since 2011; however, it has been low in comparison with their potential.

Keywords

• Ethio-Sudan
• economic relation
• bilateral trade
• diplomatic relation
• investment