In a significant expansion of its global diplomatic footprint, Haiti is establishing its first embassy in Ethiopia, marking a strategic move to strengthen ties with the African continent. The Haitian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has deployed senior official Marie-Hélène Calvin to Addis Ababa to finalize preparations for the new diplomatic mission.
During her visit, Calvin engaged in productive discussions with Ethiopian Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Berhanu Tsegaye. The Ethiopian official expressed enthusiasm for Haiti’s decision, characterizing it as a renewal of longstanding bilateral friendship. Tsegaye specifically requested Calvin to convey Ethiopia’s commitment to reinforcing diplomatic bonds to her Haitian counterparts.
The Ethiopian government has pledged comprehensive support throughout the establishment process, facilitating meetings between Calvin and various Ethiopian authorities and prominent figures to accelerate the embassy’s opening.
This diplomatic initiative gains additional significance from Addis Ababa’s unique position as a global diplomatic hub. The Ethiopian capital hosts numerous United Nations agencies and pan-African organizations, ranking as the world’s third-largest diplomatic capital after New York and Geneva. This strategic positioning offers Haiti enhanced access to multilateral forums and African continental affairs.
The embassy establishment represents Haiti’s broader strategy to expand its diplomatic presence abroad, particularly across Africa where historical and cultural connections remain underexplored diplomatically. This move signals Haiti’s ambition to play a more active role in international affairs and African diaspora engagement.