Addis Ababa, November 28, 2025 (ENA) — President Taye Atske Selassie stressed today the importance of realizing strong constitutions that hold leaders accountable and protect people's rights in Africa. Speaking at the 4th International Symposium of the Conference of Constitutional Jurisdictions of Africa(CCJA) in Addis Ababa, the President underscored the critical necessity of establishing and maintaining robust constitutional frameworks that extend beyond the mere enactment of laws across Africa. Constitutionalism fundamentally involves enshrining the rule of law, establishing accountability, and ensuring respect for fundamental rights of all citizens, he noted, emphasizing that the legitimacy of any government derives directly from the consent of the people; and constitutions play a vital role in delineating the distribution of power and clarifying how state authority should be exercised effectively. “The legitimacy that necessitates the wish and desire of the people is the very requisite for statute and the foundation of state building,” the President added. Drawing from his extensive experience on Ethiopia’s constitutional drafting commission, he spoke about Ethiopia's historical quest for constitutional development. Noting that the current constitutional framework is designed to manage the nation’s diversity while upholding a sense of unity under the rule of law, President Taye firmly condemned the troubling rise of unconstitutional changes in government. Such actions are a direct affront to both the established principles of constitutional governance and the African Union's foundational act, he emphasized. The President called on African nations to maintain a clear vision for a united and peaceful continent, asserting that constitutions must become the very soul of governance and the anchor of unity among diverse peoples. It is “only when institutions are rooted in justice and leaders are elected by citizens can we truly achieve the ambitious goals of Agenda 2063,” he concluded. On his part, the representative of the African Union Commission Chairperson Ali Youssouf emphasized the critical role that independent courts play in fostering stability and building public trust.     According to the representative, respect for constitutions is key to this effort as constitutions function as living agreements that embody principles of fairness, justice, and mutual respect among citizens and institutions alike. CCJA President Luke Malaba urged for confidence in Africa's potential for positive transformation. "Africa is making positive changes. We have to have faith in ourselves," he asserted with conviction. The President said that he viewed the symposium as a significant opportunity to scrutinize whether governments genuinely serve the needs of their citizens, advocating for a transformation of Africa's constitutions driven by the people of Africa themselves.     This gathering aligns with the African Union's Agenda 2063 goals, which emphasize peace, unity, and prosperity for the continent. It marks a pivotal moment for collaboration among African constitutional organizations, facilitating open discussions and the exchange of knowledge, Malaba stated. Ethiopia's Federal Supreme Court President and Head of the Council of Constitutional Inquiry, Tewodros Mihret elaborated on the vital connection between constitutionalism and state-building. "By improving governance through the reinforcement of the rule of law and the protection of human rights, we can accelerate the progress of Africa," he said.     The Supreme Court President underscored the essential role of constitutional courts in interpreting the highest laws, enforcing constitutional mandates, and maintaining institutional stability even in the face of social challenges. The international symposium underway under the theme "Constitutionalism and State Building in Africa" will end on November 30, 2025.

Addis Ababa, November 28, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia has been elected President of the Bureau of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) Committee on Social Policy, Poverty and Gender for the 2025–2027 term, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ethiopia’s election as President demonstrates the country's longstanding commitment to multilateralism and underscores the role of the United Nations in forging cooperation among states, including with respect to social development, it added. The Committee is a key structure within UNECA mandated to guide the Commission’s efforts in advancing equitable and inclusive human and social development across the continent. Its work also focuses on gender equality, employment, population and youth development, social protection, and urbanization. In addition, the Committee reviews major regional trends and issues in human and social development, and follows up on the outcomes of major conferences. Ethiopia will steer the work of the Committee along with Equatorial Guinea, Senegal, Eswatini, and Mauritania, it was learned. Recall that Ethiopia previously served as the Committee’s Second Vice President in 1996.

Addis Ababa, November 28, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s selection to host COP32 stands as an international acknowledgment of its steady advance in renewable energy development, the Ministry of Water and Energy said. In an exclusive interview with the ENA, Water and Energy Minister Habtamu Itefa stated that Ethiopia is actively harnessing its diverse clean-energy potential. "Our country possesses the capacity to develop a full spectrum of resources: hydro, solar, wind, and geothermal energy," the minister said. "These resources are not only meeting our energy needs but are fundamentally strengthening our climate-resilient economic path." That's a strong set of paragraphs highlighting Ethiopia's renewable energy and climate achievements. The government is expanding solar access in rural areas to ensure that off-grid communities receive reliable power through modern systems. Ethiopia's continued progress in renewable energy expansion has brought growing global recognition, particularly for its declining carbon emissions and improving climate record.     “The world is acknowledging Ethiopia’s progress in lowering emissions and confronting climate threats,” he said. Habtamu added that traditional development models in advanced economies had fueled global warming, while Ethiopia’s cleaner pathway demonstrates a viable alternative. “What we are building shows the world that development can be achieved without repeating the mistakes that caused today’s climate crisis,” he said. He explained that renewable projects nationwide are boosting Ethiopia’s attractiveness to foreign investors and strengthening regional energy integration. This progress has helped position the country to host major climate platforms. Ethiopia’s green-economy efforts played a central role in its selection to host COP32. Being chosen to host COP32 is recognition of our green initiatives and our achievements in renewable development, he added. He also noted the contribution of the national Green Legacy Program, noting that it has supported water conservation efforts and reduced siltation around hydropower dams, thereby securing long-term energy stability. Ethiopia was formally selected to host the 32nd World Climate Conference (COP32) during COP30 in Brazil, and will welcome the global gathering in two years.

Addis Ababa, November 28, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia and Germany have successfully concluded high-level negotiations on bilateral development cooperation in Berlin, with the signing of an agreement between Reem Alabali Radovan, Federal Minister for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), and Ethiopia's Finance State Minister Semereta Sewasew. The signing of the agreement, in the presence of KfW Development Bank leadership, confirms Germany’s continued support for Ethiopia’s reform and development agenda, according to a press release of Ministry of Finance.     The negotiations between the two sides highlighted the importance of private sector engagement for Ethiopia’s economic transformation, it added. German companies have expressed strong interest in participating in strategic infrastructure projects, including the Bishoftu Airport. Furthermore, both sides emphasized the significance of Ethiopia’s ongoing tax, customs, and financial sector reforms in creating a conducive business environment and promoting inclusive growth.

By Molla Mitiku One of the most consequential moments in the diplomatic history of Ethiopia was attending the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, in the 22nd and 23rd November 2025. It was for the first time that Ethiopia entered such a forum with clearly outlined objectives and a stance. Indeed, Ethiopia succeeded in shaping discussions over global governance; it voiced African priorities and obtained concrete partnerships matching its national development agenda. That summit, which was held for the first time on African soil, has created a unique environment wherein Ethiopia could speak not only for itself but also as one of the key voices representing the aspirations of the continent. Ethiopian delegation led by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed attende the summit. Ethiopia displayed its all-rounded capability including structural reforms, economic recalibration, and regional engagement in that high-level summit. Hence, the G20 was meant to be an opportunity for the Ethiopian leadership to showcase progress on macroeconomic stability, modernization of infrastructure, and climate leadership. In Johannesburg, Ethiopia was positioning itself as an emerging voice for the transformation of Africa, a leader in climate action, and a nation intent on building modern institutions anchored in technology, sustainability, and cooperation. It explores expanded support from global financial institutions, the strengthening of bilateral ties with major economies, elevation of African priorities in global debates, and the broader meaning of Ethiopia’s visible ascent in international leadership. This feature, therefore, examines the depth of Ethiopia’s achievements at the G20 Summit. In this regard, the following sections show how the summit became a platform for long-term gains that extend far beyond the two days of meetings. Elevating Diplomatic, Global Partnerships The presence of Ethiopia at the G20 carried much weight, given that the summit was the first to be held on African soil and fell well within the ongoing reform chapter the country embarked upon. The setting in Johannesburg provided just about the right stage at precisely the right time. Ahmed Shide, Ethiopia's Minister of Finance, said that the objective was presenting Ethiopia as “a nation that is no longer asking for support but seeking partnership built on shared growth.” Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed also reinforced that “Ethiopia comes to the G20 with a spirit of cooperation and clarity. We seek partnerships that reflect long-term commitment and mutual benefit. Ethiopia positioned itself for a future shaped by investment, technology, and climate resilience. Its participation underlined that reforms in Ethiopia are not just stopgap adjustments but part of broader transformations to boost productivity, modernize institutions, and contribute meaningfully to global governance. So far, the government of Ethiopia has been working on strengthening its global partnership and at the G20 Summit; this engagement was made in a practical way, openly with all countries regardless of their political, religious, and economic status, including partners across the world and the continent. The country made such unrestricted relations due to its major legacy ‘Medemer’ literally referring to synergy and cooperation. In connection with the country's bilateral engagement, Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos confirmed that the approach is an extension of the country's "synergy legacy developed in the country." In connection to diplomatic and global partnership, the summit provided Ethiopia with an opportunity to engage the leaders of major global economies and emerging powers. These consultations were more focused on practical areas of cooperation than diplomatic formality and formed a venue for reinforcing the relationships hinged on mutual imperatives for development. One of the most significant bilateral engagements was with South Africa. Discussions by the two countries outlined the possibility of anchoring deeper continental cooperation. The conversations centered on how to expand regional integration, attract new investment flows, and exchange best practices in urban development. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said that Addis Ababa “has become one of the most dynamic examples of modern African urban planning.” The governments agreed to deepen cooperation in trade, energy, aviation, and digital transformation. The European countries, including Germany's Chancellor Olaf Scholz and France's President Emmanuel Macron, showed restored interest in the reform trajectory of Ethiopia. The European Prime Minister noted Ethiopia's efforts toward the diversification of its economy, and its readiness for further development through industrial and digital transformation. Ethiopia further solidified its relations with countries from Asia and the Middle East. Indonesia, India, South Korea, Vietnam, and Turkey, among others, have engaged extensively with PM Abiy Ahmed on industrial development, digital infrastructure, agricultural modernization, and improvement in logistics. All these countries showed readiness to explore investment opportunities in Ethiopian industrial parks and economic corridors. Having expanded its diplomatic footprint, Ethiopia also engaged with the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres applauded the efforts of Ethiopia to advance peace and stability both at home and across the region. In his meeting with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, he lauded Ethiopia’s “renewed commitment to regional dialogue and security cooperation” World Bank President Ajay Banga also supported investments by Ethiopia in infrastructure, emphasized modernization as part of the country's development model, relating to logistics, aviation, and digital networks. All these engagements have taken Ethiopia's continental and global diplomatic relations up a notch into a new chapter. In this regard, Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos emphasized, "Our objective was to present Ethiopia as a nation which steps forward with solutions, not demands, seeking partnerships based on mutual benefit. Voicing African Priorities Under the country's ‘Medemer’ philosophy, Ethiopia used the G20 platform to push for continental economic integration and structural reforms that reflect the reality of African economies. In this regard, Ethiopia voiced for debt reform, a continental pivotal issue. In connection to this fact, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed argued, "Developing countries cannot modernize their economies while burdened by unsustainable debt." He further emphasized on strengthening health systems across the continent and presented Ethiopia's community-based health system as a scalable model that fuses external support with local ownership to deliver services at a national level. Hence, Ethiopia utilized the platform to voice continental matters so that the advocacy placed Ethiopia not only as a beneficiary of support but also as a contributor of workable development solutions for the Global South. Secured New Commitments & Finance The most salient achievement of Ethiopia from the Johannesburg summit was the commitment from all major Global Financial Institutions. These engagements went beyond general pledging, focusing on concrete priority project support, macroeconomic reforms, and climate initiatives. It provided Ethiopia with an opportunity to align its national priorities with the World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and African Development Bank's strategic agendas, leading to a series of strengthened commitments. The World Bank announced that the Bank was ready to expand its engagement with Ethiopia, reiterating its support for large-scale infrastructure investments, and emphasizing that Ethiopia has been on a clear development trajectory, adding that it is ready to scale up its support for transformative projects such as the Bishoftu Mega Airport. The IMF, represented by its Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, praised the country's latest macroeconomic adjustments. She said, "The recent economic measures taken by the country are steps anchored in responsible management and long-term national vision." In a post on social media after his meeting with Georgieva, Prime Minister Abiy also said, "I held a constructive bilateral meeting with IMF managing director Georgieva during which we discussed global economic trends, our national economic reforms, and opportunities to strengthen cooperation in support of sustainable and inclusive growth". The President of the African Development Bank, Akinwumi Adesina, on his part hailed Ethiopia as "a model of committed development leadership." The Bank's president confirmed sustained collaboration in strategic projects that include the Bishoftu Mega Airport, industrial corridors, clean energy development, and digital transformation projects. Ethiopia also managed to have financial fund by engaging Executive Director of the Global Fund in this regard, Ethiopia and the Global Fund officials have discussed on the instrumental grants in expanding primary healthcare networks, strengthening disease prevention systems and supporting nation-wide community health services. Model for Climate Action Ethiopia showcased its Green Legacy Initiative (GLI), one of the most ambitious environmental restoration programs from Africa, to the entire world. The country has successfully sown more than 48 billion seedlings over the past years. Fitsum Assefa, Minister of Planning and Development, underlined the success of the initiative beyond mere planting: "The GLI has been a resounding success for the development and protection of Ethiopia's natural resources, not only for the economy but also in the fight against the ravages of climate change." The initiative is also cited to have big economic benefits, largely through the increased export revenues with millions of coffee and fruit seedlings planted. Press Secretary at the Office of Prime Minister Billene Seyoum, on her part, has pointed out that GLI was a demonstration of Ethiopia’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, and has “drawn attention and support from several world leaders.” Therefere, the significance of the GLI goes well beyond its borders, with its potential as a model for African climate action and sustainable development. Through its integrated approach to reforestation and agroforestry, the program holds great promise to tackle a number of continent-wide scourges: desertification, soil erosion, and food insecurity. It was also previously reported that at the Second Africa Climate Summit, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed announced Ethiopia's official bid to host the Conference of the Parties (COP 32) in 2027. This is due to its strong environmental credentials, primarily highlighted by the GLI demonstrating a sustainable, community-driven effort to restore watersheds, protect soil, and create jobs. Ethiopia's proposal to host the crucial global climate policy forum signals its readiness to assume a leadership role and show that the continent can be "the continent of solutions." Promote Trade and Investment Investment promotion and an articulation of its economic potential perhaps dominated the agenda of Ethiopia in the just-ended G20 summit. The Ethiopian delegation sought to attract foreign capital by underlining key sectors primed for growth, including aviation, energy, manufacturing, tourism, digital services, and agriculture. Ethiopia is accomplishing successful works through expanding education and infrastructure and by "creating a conducive environment for foreign investment." This proactive attitude stimulated much international interest, with several countries that showed avid interest in expanding trade relations and exploring industrial partnerships. In connection to this, Ethiopian delegation held meetings with heads of state from major economies that included France, Germany, Finland, Brazil, the UK, South Korea, and Vietnam, squarely on economic growth, climate action, and multilateral cooperation. Conclusion Participation in the 2025 G20 Summit in Johannesburg marked one more milestone in Ethiopia's modern-day diplomacy to position itself as a proactive, credible, and solution-oriented partner on the world stage. This engagement affirmed Ethiopia's readiness for high-level, solution-oriented diplomacy, showcasing its ability to articulate the needs of developing nations and contribute meaningfully toward global economic and climate governance. The most concrete achievement of the event was the commitments obtained from major international financial institutions, a critical signal of restored confidence in the nation's economic reforms and long-term development strategy. As Finance Minister Ahmed Shide reaffirmed, these pledges "confirm the confidence of the world in Ethiopian economic reforms and future potential." Beyond that, Ethiopia's extensive range of bilateral engagements showed that major global economies see it as a worthy partner on a series of key issues-trade, investment, technology, and climate action. The summit gave Ethiopia a significant boost in its diplomatic standing. Foreign Minister, Gedion Timothewos, underscored this shift, "This repositions Ethiopia as a key voice in global affairs and a credible partner for sustainable development." This visibility, coupled with the emphasis on national initiatives such as the community-based health system, economic reforms, and climate action, acts to undergird a message of national ownership and global cooperation being necessary for sustainable development. Going forward, its increased global profile is expected to improve the country's influence at multilateral platforms and in future diplomatic engagements. In addition to national interests, the Ethiopian delegation strongly represented African priorities, such as debt relief, fair development financing, and climate justice, reaffirming its leadership role on the continent. The summit offered Ethiopia an important opportunity to amplify Africa's priorities, and to foster partnerships that support peace, stability, and inclusive growth.Shortly, the Johannesburg summit showed a reflection of unity of purpose, strategic messaging, and clear national priorities. As Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed succinctly captured, the summit has "opened new pathways for Ethiopia’s development, diplomacy and influence," leveraging the generated momentum as a catalyst for broader national and regional progress.