By Staff Writer Addis Ababa, May 17, 2026 —Ethiopia experienced a defining week marked by major economic breakthroughs, diplomatic victories, and renewed momentum toward national transformation. From industrial expansion and export growth to high-level global diplomacy and domestic peacebuilding efforts, the country demonstrated its growing ability to balance internal development with an increasingly influential international presence. Guided by the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the nation has boldly asserted its position as both the economic engine and the diplomatic anchor of the region. Through a sophisticated blend of high-level industrial infrastructure commissions, historic multilateral diplomacy, and surging macroeconomic performance, Addis Ababa continues to aggressively turn its grand visions into concrete, historical realities. Industrialization and Job Creation In a Victory for the nation’s manufacturing sector, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed officially inaugurated the first phase of the ultra-modern Gelan Gura Industrial Park in Addis Ababa. Executed under the high-profile “Made in Ethiopia” national campaign, the inauguration of this state-of-the-art facility marks a significant milestone in scaling up local production capacity, resolving industrial bottlenecks, and creating crucial market linkages. Prime Minister Abiy underscored that the development of such industrial hubs is pivotal to achieving economic independence, generating extensive employment opportunities, and fostering innovation. Developed on 43 hectares of the park's total 93.9 hectares, the facility carries profound hope for the capital's medium and large-scale manufacturers while unlocking vital employment opportunities for thousands of organized, formerly unemployed youth. The Prime Minister emphasized that development initiatives must uplift local farmers, the underserved, and the vulnerable, noting that meaningful progress cannot be achieved if farmers are reduced to mere guards on their own land. He called upon all regional states to draw inspiration from the Gelan Gura model and establish similar inclusive industrial parks tailored for youth and farmers. By producing import-substituting goods—ranging from water pumps and blocks to animal feed—the specialized manufacturing incubator will create a direct and efficient commercial link between producers and consumers, driving the country's industrial and economic transformation. Strengthening Multilateral Diplomacy Ethiopia’s diplomatic influence was prominently displayed during the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Ethiopia’s relationship with the United Nations. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed joined António Guterres at the historic National Palace to mark the milestone and unveil a special four-stamp commemorative collection themed “To Live Together in Peace,” which will be distributed globally through the Universal Postal Union. During the event, Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that Ethiopia’s partnership with the United Nations is built on a shared history and common future. He also called for urgent reforms to global institutions, particularly the United Nations Security Council, arguing that global governance structures must better reflect Africa’s growing role in international affairs.   At the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, co-hosted by William Ruto and Emmanuel Macron, Prime Minister Abiy highlighted Ethiopia’s expanding role in green industrialization and clean energy development. He reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to sustainable industrial growth and emphasized the country’s contribution to Africa’s broader energy transition agenda. Ethiopia also strengthened relations with the United States as Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos held talks with Marco Rubio focused on trade, investment, security cooperation, and regional peace. The discussions followed the signing of the Bilateral Structured Dialogue Framework in Washington, D.C., signaling renewed momentum in relations between the two countries. In addition, Ethiopia used its platform at BRICS meetings to advocate for reforms to global financial institutions and governance systems that would provide African nations with stronger representation in global decision-making.   Expanding Strategic Partnerships Ethiopia’s diplomatic momentum continued with the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron, who was welcomed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed at the National Palace. The two leaders toured the Ethiopia Science Museum and explored opportunities for future collaboration in innovation, science, and technology. Their meeting produced a major outcome in the form of a €54.6 million loan agreement that will support Ethiopia’s Renewable, Integrated, Sustainable Energy and Digitalization Program, further advancing the country’s green energy and digital transformation efforts.   Macroeconomic Growth The week brought extraordinary news for Ethiopia's macroeconomic performance, climate-resilient urban planning, and agricultural progress. The Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration announced that Ethiopia secured a stellar 8.7 billion USD in export revenue over the last 10 months of the current fiscal year. Trade and Regional Integration Minister Kassahun Gofe disclosed the figures during the graduation of 168 coffee sommeliers from the Ethiopian Commodity Exchange (ECX) Academy, noting that structural economic reforms have dramatically boosted the competitiveness of agricultural exports. The nation remains firmly on track to hit its ambitious 10 billion USD export target by the end of the fiscal year through strict quality assurance and professional workforce training. Simultaneously, the national push for food self-reliance is gaining substantial momentum across regional states, driven by robust cluster farming initiatives and expanding summer wheat production outputs. Bolstering urban resilience, the Ministry of Finance formalized an essential environmental partnership by signing a 5 million Euro grant agreement with the Government of Italy, specifically dedicated to the execution of the Kebena Riverside Project designed to expand Addis Ababa's green coverage and eco-tourism spaces. National Dialogue Commission Advances to Final Phase On the social and political front, the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission announced that the country has moved significantly closer to the final phase of its nationwide reconciliation process. The Commission indicated that consultations and agenda-gathering phases have progressed smoothly across various regions, laying a firm, inclusive foundation to resolve long-standing national issues through peaceful discourse. This steady domestic progress mirrors Ethiopia's active external posture, as the country continues to push for economic self-sufficiency, institutional transparency, and harmonious national development.   Ultimately, the past week has proven that Ethiopia's transformative journey is moving forward at an irreversible pace. The synchronized milestones in domestic industrialization, expanding export landscapes, and heavyweight global partnerships illustrate a country aggressively turning its grand visions into concrete, historical realities. By combining local resilience with an influential global posture, Addis Ababa continues to confidently chart the path forward for Africa's development paradigm. Looking Ahead This week underscored Ethiopia’s growing confidence as it continues to expand its economic base, strengthen diplomatic relationships, and pursue long-term national transformation. The simultaneous progress in industrial development, international partnerships, export growth, and national dialogue reflects a country determined to shape its future through resilience, ambition, and strategic leadership. As Ethiopia deepens its domestic reforms while expanding its global influence, it continues to position itself as one of Africa’s most consequential emerging powers.

By Staff Writer Addis Ababa, May 17, 2026 —The second week of May 2026 highlighted a global order under mounting strain as geopolitical competition, economic fragility, technological rivalry, climate shocks, and public health emergencies converged into a single accelerating pattern of instability. Events across multiple regions did not unfold in isolation but reinforced one another, signaling a deeper structural shift in how the international system functions. The global landscape during the week reflected a world in transition, shaped less by isolated crises and more by interconnected pressures that are steadily redefining international relations. Major diplomatic activity involving leading powers pointed to a recalibration of global influence, with Beijing increasingly positioned as a central arena where strategic competition and negotiation intersect. At the same time, the widening effects of sanctions, shifting alliances, and industrial competition continued to reshape economic and political alignments. Conflict zones remained highly volatile, particularly in the Middle East and Eastern Europe, where military escalation, fragile ceasefire, and expanding drone warfare underscored the changing nature of modern conflict. Warfare is no longer confined to traditional battle lines but is increasingly defined by long range systems, infrastructure targeting, and hybrid strategies that blur the distinction between military and civilian domains. Beyond geopolitics, the week also exposed growing systemic stress in other domains. Africa’s public health emergencies highlighted the vulnerability of strained health systems, while climate driven shocks intensified risks to food security, water supply, and urban stability across multiple continents. In parallel, rising political polarization in parts of Europe signaled deepening social fragmentation, with mass demonstrations reflecting broader tensions linked to migration, economic pressure, and institutional distrust. Across these developments runs a unifying pattern frequently described by analysts as a poly crisis, where multiple global shocks interact and amplify each other, accelerating uncertainty across political, economic, and social systems. Global Power Relations At the center of global attention stood Beijing, where diplomacy involving U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping reflected a major re-calibration of global power relations. Trump’s summit with Xi Jinping represented far more than a bilateral diplomatic engagement. According to assessments by Reuters, Bloomberg, and the Financial Times, the meeting underscored Beijing’s growing position as a central arena where the future balance of economic and strategic influence is increasingly negotiated. China’s expanding leverage over manufacturing, infrastructure investment, advanced technology, and global supply chains has steadily shifted the center of geopolitical gravity eastward.   The significance of the summit deepened further with confirmation that Vladimir Putin will travel to Beijing for talks with Xi. Analysts from the Council on Foreign Relations and Eurasia focused policy institutes argued that the back-to-back meetings demonstrated China’s evolving role not only as an economic superpower but also as a diplomatic pivot between rival global blocs. Russia’s growing dependence on China has become one of the defining strategic consequences of the Ukraine war. Prolonged Western sanctions have pushed Moscow closer to Beijing economically, financially, and diplomatically. China, meanwhile, continues pursuing a careful balancing strategy, strengthening ties with Russia while attempting to prevent a direct rupture with the United States and Europe. Yet beneath the diplomatic symbolism, structural tensions remain unresolved. Reuters and Bloomberg both noted that competition between Washington and Beijing increasingly revolves around technology, industrial dominance, trade architecture, and military positioning in the Indo Pacific. Middle East Instability The Middle East remained one of the most immediate sources of international instability throughout the week. Although diplomacy temporarily reduced fears of large-scale escalation, the region continues to function as a central pressure point for global energy security and geopolitical confrontation. Following negotiations in Washington, Israel and Lebanon agreed to extend their ceasefire for 45 days. Regional coverage from Reuters, Al Jazeera, and the Associated Press described the agreement as a fragile pause rather than a durable political settlement. Security analysts warned that the underlying drivers of instability remain unresolved, particularly the broader confrontation involving Iran, Israel, Hamas, and Iran aligned armed groups across the region. The ceasefire unfolded against worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza. International aid organizations, including Médecins Sans Frontières and United Nations humanitarian agencies, continued warning about severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel. The inability of major powers to secure lasting ceasefire has reinforced criticism that international diplomacy is increasingly reactive rather than preventive. Tensions escalated further after the killing of Izz al Din al Haddad; a senior Hamas Al Qassam Brigades commander linked to the October 7 attacks against Israel. Israeli and Hamas sources both confirmed the strike. Security analysts interviewed by Reuters and regional security networks warned that the assassination could provoke broader retaliation and deepen regional instability. At the same time, Iran signaled a broader expansion of strategic pressure beyond conventional military confrontation. Iranian lawmakers announced plans to impose new regulatory mechanisms and transit fees not only on maritime traffic moving through the Strait of Hormuz but also on subsea communication infrastructure crossing the region. According to regional security briefings and international reporting monitored by Reuters and Bloomberg, Tehran’s focus on subsea internet and financial cables marked a significant evolution in geopolitical strategy. Iranian officials suggested that global technology firms such as Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Amazon could eventually face licensing requirements tied to underwater digital infrastructure. This development demonstrated how geopolitical competition increasingly extends beyond territory and military hardware into control over digital infrastructure, communications networks, and cyber strategic assets. The International Energy Agency and the U.S. Energy Information Administration both warned during the week that instability in the Strait of Hormuz continues threatening global supply chains. Nearly one fifth of globally traded oil passes through the waterway. Oil prices remained above 100 dollars per barrel, increasing inflationary pressure globally and placing renewed strain on fuel importing economies. The Ukraine The war in Ukraine entered another dangerous phase as drone warfare expanded dramatically in scale and sophistication. Russian officials reported one of the largest Ukrainian drone assaults on the Moscow region since the war began, with Russia’s Defense Ministry claiming that more than 550 drones were intercepted overnight. Reporting from BBC, Reuters, and the Institute for the Study of War indicated that the strikes damaged infrastructure and targeted energy facilities near Moscow. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky defended the attacks as a response to Russia’s continued bombardment of Ukrainian cities, including recent missile and drone strikes that killed civilians in Kyiv. Military analysts interviewed by NATO affiliated defense forums and the Institute for the Study of War noted that the expanding drone war is reshaping modern military doctrine. Long range autonomous systems are increasingly capable of targeting critical infrastructure hundreds of kilometers from front-lines, reducing traditional strategic advantages based on geography and defensive depth. Africa’s Public Health Emergency Africa faced simultaneous health emergencies during the week, illustrating the vulnerability of fragile regions to overlapping crises. Central Africa confronted a major public health emergency after the World Health Organization declared the Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo an international health emergency. WHO emergency briefings stated that the outbreak in Ituri province resulted in hundreds of suspected cases and at least 80 deaths. Particularly alarming is the fact that the Bundibugyo strain currently involved has no approved vaccines or treatments. Africa CDC, Médecins Sans Frontières, and WHO experts warned that weak health-care infrastructure, population displacement, mining activity, and porous borders could significantly complicate containment efforts. Confirmed cases in Uganda and the appearance of the virus in Kinshasa heightened fears of broader regional spread. Climate Pressure Climate related pressures also intensified globally during the week. Severe heatwaves, flooding, drought conditions, and water shortages continued affecting multiple regions, reinforcing the growing consensus that climate change is now a central economic and security challenge rather than simply an environmental issue. A panel of experts advising the World Health Organization urged the agency to formally classify climate change as a global public health emergency, citing growing links between rising temperatures, disease spread, food insecurity, and displacement. In the United States, the Colorado River crisis deepened as water levels approached critical thresholds. According to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and climate monitoring agencies, the river supports nearly 40 million people and remains essential for agriculture, urban supply systems, and electricity generation. Federal officials warned that unprecedented water rationing measures may soon become unavoidable. Analysts increasingly argue that climate related resource scarcity is becoming a major driver of future political and economic instability. Meanwhile, Europe experienced intensifying political polarization. BBC and CNN, also reported large demonstrations in London organized around anti-immigration and nationalist themes under the “Unite the Kingdom” banner. The scale of the demonstrations reflected growing frustration linked to migration, economic pressure, social fragmentation, and distrust toward political institutions. Analysts increasingly warn that populist and extremist rhetoric once considered politically marginal is becoming normalized across several Western democracies. Conclusion The events of the week point to an international system undergoing a fundamental transition rather than experiencing temporary disruption. Power relations are shifting, conflicts are evolving in form and scale, and non-traditional threats such as climate instability and public health crises are becoming central to global security calculations. What emerges is a world increasingly defined by interconnected vulnerability. Energy markets, technological infrastructure, trade networks, and political stability are now tightly interlinked, meaning pressure in one domain rapidly transmits to others.

Addis Ababa, May 16, 2026 —Ethiopia’s Medemer philosophy, introduced by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, could offer valuable lessons for Gulf nations navigating a fragile post-war environment, according to American political analyst Andrew Korybko. In his recent newsletter, Korybko described Medemer, loosely translated as “synergy” as a socio-political and economic philosophy aimed at preserving national unity while promoting inclusive development among Ethiopia’s diverse population. The analyst’s opinion came shortly after the official launch of the Arabic edition of Medemer in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, an event seen as a significant step in strengthening Ethiopia’s cultural and diplomatic ties with the Arab world. The launch ceremony, organized by the Embassy of Ethiopia in the United Arab Emirates, brought together high-ranking officials, diplomats, scholars, and members of the Ethiopian diaspora. Among those in attendance were Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan and Ethiopia’s Ambassador to the UAE, Jemal Beker.   According to Korybko, the recent conflict in the Gulf—referred to in his analysis as the “Third Gulf War,” has significantly reshaped regional dynamics on both sides of the strategically important waterway through which much of the world’s oil supply passes. Although the conflict has not been officially declared over, Korybko noted that a Pakistan-mediated ceasefire has held longer than many analysts anticipated, creating cautious optimism about regional stability and opening the door for post-war recovery efforts. “It is within this complex regional environment, marked by tensions between Iran and Gulf monarchies, as well as divisions among Gulf states themselves—that the Arabic translation of Medemer arrives at a particularly important moment,” he wrote.   Korybko emphasized that the launch of the Arabic edition in the UAE was not accidental, noting that the country remains one of Ethiopia’s key strategic partners. He also highlighted Ethiopia’s close relations with Saudi Arabia and Iran, suggesting that leaders in both countries may take interest in the philosophy now that it is accessible in Arabic. While he acknowledged that Ethiopia is unlikely to directly mediate disputes between Iran and Gulf states or between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, Korybko argued that the principles of Medemer could still inspire regional cooperation. “Realistically speaking, Ethiopia will not mediate between Iran and the Gulf kingdoms,” he said. “However, Medemer's teachings could contribute to the post-war era by encouraging dialogue on a regional non-aggression pact and eventually a broader collective security framework.”   The analyst also acknowledged Ethiopia’s own internal challenges, including unresolved ethnic and regional tensions, but said the country’s progress under the philosophy demonstrates that even deeply rooted conflicts can be addressed. “If the federal government and groups that have fought against it for years can move toward reconciliation, then Gulf nations can also pursue peace based on shared economic and security interests,” he added. Korybko concluded by cautioning against overstating the immediate impact of Medemer on Gulf politics but stressed that the Arabic translation could still play a meaningful role in promoting dialogue. “Through sustained diplomatic and intellectual engagement, Ethiopia can help ensure regional leaders understand the core principles of Medemer,” he wrote. “That could ultimately contribute to lasting peace and mutual development in the region.”

Addis Ababa, May 16, 2026 —The wide political space created in Ethiopia has enabled political parties and citizens to actively participate in the 7th General Election, according to Addis Ababa Political Parties Joint Council Chairman Maru Jane. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the Chairman stated that the Council has been engaged in the election process and supporting efforts aimed at ensuring citizen participation, as well as encouraging political parties to promote their manifestos while complying with election laws and regulations. He added that the political parties and citizens are participating in the process due to the improved political environment. Stakeholders are also working to ensure that the election remains peaceful, fair, and democratic, Maru said. According to him, “efforts to widen the political space in the 7th General Election, when compared to the 6th General Election represent a significant step forward.” More people were able to obtain voter cards this time and this shows the expansion of the political space. “The Council has been engaged to raise awareness among residents of Addis Ababa through different means to enable citizens secure voter cards and take part in the election,” the Chairman said. In addition, the political parties were given training to strengthen their roles in the election process. Moreover, the Council, in collaboration with the National Election Board, has been raising public awareness about election laws and helping parties to promote their manifestos and present their political programs. Encouraging the enabling environment created for political parties and citizens to actively engage in the 7th General Election, Maru stressed that the Council will further intensify its role for the peaceful completion of the election. More that 50,514,000 voters have registered across the country for the upcoming 7th General Election. Citizens participated in the process through the "Mirchaye" mobile application as a digital alternative, as well as by appearing in person at various polling stations. Over 5.5 million voters utilized the digital platform, while the remaining were conducted manually.

Addis Ababa, May 15, 2026 —President Taye Atske Selassie today bade farewell to Ghana’s outgoing Ambassador to Ethiopia, Robert Afriyie. The President commended Ambassador Afriyie for strengthening cooperation between the two countries across key areas, including trade, and people-to-people ties, and called for continued efforts to build on the progress achieved. Ambassador Afriyie described his service in Ethiopia as a “homecoming,” noting that his posting from 2024 to 2026 followed an earlier assignment between 2014 and 2017 as Deputy Head of Mission.   Reflecting on his tenure, he highlighted a series of initiatives aimed at deepening bilateral relations, including the successful observance of “Ghana Month” in Ethiopia. The programme was launched on May 8, 2026 at Kuriftu Resort and featured business-to-business meetings, panel discussions, exhibitions of Ghanaian products, as well as cultural showcases, including fashion, textiles, and cuisine. He also pointed to the completion of Ghana’s new embassy chancery in Addis Ababa, inaugurated in February, describing it as a clear demonstration of Ghana’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic engagement with Ethiopia. On multilateral cooperation, the ambassador noted Ghana’s role in supporting a United Nations resolution on reparations and justice for Africans, adding that Ethiopia’s backing carried special significance.   Turning to economic relations, Afriyie said ties between Accra and Addis Ababa remain strong, supported by regular air connectivity. He noted that Ethiopian Airlines operates about three flights to Accra daily on average, with frequency sometimes increasing depending on demand. He further underscored the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), saying it would allow Ethiopia and Ghana to expand direct trade in commodities such as leather products, coffee, cocoa-based goods, chocolate, shea butter, and African textiles, reducing reliance on indirect trade routes through Europe.   Ethiopia’s development trajectory as an encouraging example of Africa’s potential, he emphasized, adding that closer collaboration between the two countries could further advance both cultural and economic partnerships.

Addis Ababa, May 15, 2026 —The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission (ENDC) has presented its implementation report today, highlighting the progress achieved so far, challenges encountered, and the upcoming steps of the national consultation process. The presentation took place in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, senior federal and regional leaders, and members of the House of Peoples’ Representatives Standing Committee. The report outlined the commission’s key activities to date and the strategic measures taken to address operational challenges, while setting clear expectations for stakeholders to ensure continuity in the upcoming phase. During the presentation, Chief Commissioner Professor Mesfin Araya emphasized that the commission's efforts have successfully culminated into their final stage. “The Commission's work over the past years has now entered its final phase,” he noted. The Chief Commissioner added that the process has been significantly strengthened by blending local, national knowledge with international best practices, a dual approach that has enhanced the commission's overall effectiveness at this critical juncture.   According to Professor Mesfin, a key milestone of the initiative has been its inclusive and participatory nationwide consultation process. To date, agenda-gathering and consultation activities have been successfully completed in 1,234 districts, representing 93 percent of the country, he noted. In the Tigray region, standard district level consultations could not be conducted within the region due to prevailing conditions, he said, adding that to ensure representation, a separate forum was held in Addis Ababa, bringing together representatives from Tigray alongside various indigenous communities from across the country. The discussions focused on incorporating these voices into the broader national consultation process and shaping a shared collaborative agenda. Professor Mesfin emphasized that broad public participation has remained central to every stage of the process, from initial stakeholder engagement through to final agenda setting.   Moving forward, the Commission said its work will concentrate on three main priorities including strengthening the active participation of political actors, finalizing the national consultation agendas, and convening the formal national consultation conference. Preparations for the national consultative conference are currently underway, with the exact timing to be announced at a later date. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed expressed his appreciation to all participants involved since the launch of the initiative. He highlighted that the process has yielded vital lessons alongside its primary outcomes, contributing significantly to broader institutional learning. According to the premier, the national consultation process is a forward-looking initiative designed not only for present needs but also for future generations. He further reaffirmed that the government will continue to provide all necessary support to the Commission in alignment with its previous commitments.

Addis Ababa, May 15, 2026 —Finland has expressed backing for Ethiopia’s efforts to secure access to the sea and its pivotal role in promoting peace and stability in the Horn of Africa. The remarks were made during discussions between the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs of Ethiopian House of People’s Representatives (HPR) and Finnish Member of Parliament Kimmo Kiljunen, accompanied by Finland’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Sinikka Antila.   According to a social media post by the HPR, the talks focused on the geopolitical situation in the Horn of Africa and ways to strengthen the longstanding partnership between Ethiopia and Finland in areas including trade, investment, technology transfer, and other fields of cooperation. Member of the Standing Committee Dina Mufti recalled the historic relations between the two countries and stressed the need to further deepen bilateral ties. He noted that Ethiopia, in collaboration with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, has been working to advance peace and regional development in Eastern Africa, reaffirming the country’s commitment to maintaining peace and security across the region.   Ambassador Dina also elaborated on Ethiopia’s position regarding sea access, stating that the country’s growing demand for maritime access is shaped by historical, geographic, demographic, and economic realities. He emphasized that Ethiopia’s approach is rooted in peaceful negotiations, mutual benefit, diplomatic engagement, and agreements designed to create shared advantages for neighboring countries. The ambassador further highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing reform agenda, including economic liberalization measures, efforts to expand investment opportunities, and initiatives aimed at consolidating national peace and stability. For his part, Kiljunen described Ethiopia as a strategic and leading partner for Finland in Africa, noting the longstanding relationship between the two countries.   He reaffirmed Finland’s readiness to cooperate with Ethiopia in supporting peace and security initiatives, including efforts to combat terrorism in East Africa and across the continent. Kiljunen also reiterated Finland’s support for Ethiopia’s pursuit of seaport access through peaceful and diplomatic channels. Ambassador Antila stated that Finland is currently cooperating with Ethiopia in the fields of digitalization, telecommunications, and solar energy, adding that collaboration in these sectors will continue to expand.

Addis Ababa, May 15, 2026 —President Taye Atske Selassie on Friday received former Romanian Prime Minister and current presidential counselor Dacian Cioloș at the National Palace, where the Romanian envoy delivered a personal message from President Nicușor Dan. During the meeting, President Taye expressed appreciation for the message and highlighted the longstanding diplomatic ties between Ethiopia and Romania, stressing the potential to expand cooperation across multiple sectors. Speaking to Ethiopian News Agency following the meeting, Cioloș said he was honored to be received by President Taye as part of a Romanian delegation visiting Ethiopia.   He said he had been entrusted by Romania’s president to personally deliver the message and described Ethiopia as one of Romania’s key partners in Africa. Cioloș noted that 2026 will mark 60 years since Romania opened its embassy in Addis Ababa and said Bucharest is seeking to deepen ties through stronger economic and political cooperation. He also highlighted longstanding educational links between the two countries, noting that many Ethiopians have studied in Romania over the past decades. “We want to continue building on this tradition while exploring new areas of cooperation,” Cioloș said.   The Romanian envoy also pointed to Addis Ababa’s rapid transformation, saying the city has changed significantly since his last visit 12 years ago. He added that Romania is interested in expanding economic cooperation with Ethiopia and strengthening collaboration in international organizations. In a separate meeting, President Taye Atske Selassie also held talks with Kesetebirhan Admasu, chief executive of Big Win Philanthropy, on efforts to advance early childhood development in Ethiopia.   During the discussion, the president encouraged the organization to continue supporting early childhood development initiatives in the country.