KEYIR NEWS:- In a surprising move that could open new doors for Ethiopian businesses and travellers, the Ethiopian Birr has been officially added to the list of recognised currencies by the Central Bank of Russia.
The announcement, made overnight, means Ethiopians can now directly exchange Birr for Russian Rubles, something previously unavailable through official channels.
The exchange rate has been set at 57.5872 Rubles per 100 Birr, or 0.575872 Rubles per Birr, with daily updates to follow. The Birr has also been given a formal exchange rate code: 230.
For many Ethiopians, especially students, traders, and diaspora communities engaged with Russia, this recognition is more than symbolic—it’s practical. It removes the need to rely on third-party currencies like the U.S. Dollar or Euro to conduct financial transactions.
“This could make life a bit easier for Ethiopian students in Russia,” said Hana Tadesse, whose younger brother is studying engineering in Moscow. “Sending him money has always been complicated and expensive.”
The Central Bank of Russia included the Birr as part of a broader decision to set official rates for 12 additional currencies. Experts view this as a sign of growing financial diversification and shifting global alliances.
For Ethiopia, this small but significant step hints at deeper economic and diplomatic ties with Russia, offering a rare moment of visibility for the Birr on the global financial stage.
As economic currents shift, ordinary citizens may be among the first to feel the ripple effects, in their remittances, bank apps, and international transactions.