The newly appointed African Development Bank (AfDB) Country Director for Ethiopia met with Minister of Finance Ahmed Shide last week, signing a one million dollar Grant Agreement to support communities affected by recent floods and landslides. Ahmed emphasised the crucial role the AfDB has played in supporting Ethiopia's development efforts, particularly in the infrastructure sector. He stressed the government's need for continued assistance from the Bank to advance its reform agenda. Leandre Bassole (PhD) acknowledged Ethiopia's progress and reaffirmed the AfDB's long-standing commitment to supporting the country's development. He assured the Minister of the Bank's dedication to exploring new financing opportunities and strengthening its partnership with Ethiopia. Bassole came after a serious diplomatic matter where two international staff of the Bank Group based in  Ethiopia were severely assaulted by security agents six months ago was resolved.