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.

By Henok Tadele Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong stood together at the National Palace announcing a comprehensive partnership that brings together Africa's fastest-developing economy with one of Asia's most advanced nations. Their joint press conference marked not just a diplomatic milestone, but the beginning of a transformative alliance that showcases how resource-rich Africa and knowledge-rich Asia can shape the future together. The Perfect Match - Speed Meets Sophistication "I think this is the right time for every developed nation to turn their face to Africa because without bringing the potentials that we have from both sides, there is no way that we can fulfill the demand which is arising from our people," Prime Minister Abiy said, articulating the fundamental logic behind this ground-breaking partnership. Ethiopia, recognized as one of the world's fastest-growing economies in recent years, represents the dynamism and potential of modern Africa. Singapore, having transformed itself from a developing port city to a global financial and technology hub within decades, brings the institutional knowledge and technical expertise that can accelerate Ethiopia's remarkable trajectory. Prime Minister Wong said "… we see Ethiopia as an ancient civilization with a long and proud history of diverse people and tremendous potential to do much more going forward." In his social media post, PM Wong also posted ‘‘Singapore and Ethiopia are both gateways to our respective regions. By deepening our partnership, we are building a bridge between Southeast Asia and Africa that will benefit our peoples for years to come.’’ According to him, Singapore’s decision to open a new embassy in Addis Ababa will be a significant milestone, serving as a vital link not just to Ethiopia, but to the African Union and the wider continent. Africa's Abundant Resources Meet Asia's Advanced Know-How The partnership brilliantly illustrates how Africa's vast natural wealth can combine with Asia's technological advancement to create unprecedented opportunities. As Prime Minister Abiy emphasized, "We have human capital, we have land, we have fresh water, we have huge potential for clean energy, we have good policies, we're investment ready as a continent." Ethiopia specifically brings to the table some of Africa's most valuable assets, a population of over 130 million people representing a massive consumer market and workforce, vast agricultural potential in a continent that could feed the world, significant mineral resources including gold and rare earth elements, and enormous renewable energy capacity through hydroelectric and solar power. The country's strategic location as the gateway to East Africa and its role as host to the African Union headquarters add geopolitical significance to its economic assets. Singapore complements these resources with what Prime Minister Abiy called "capital resources and skilled human capital" that are missing elements in Africa. Singapore's expertise spans advanced urban planning, digital governance systems, logistics and supply chain management, financial services and fintech innovation, sustainable development practices, and institutional governance frameworks that have proven effective in rapid economic transformation. Comprehensive Cooperation Across Strategic Sectors The Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) signed outlined cooperation across multiple sectors that could benefit both economies. Digital Transformation and Logistics: "Collaboration on smart mobility, logistic technology and digital public infrastructure are the areas that we would like to work with your country," Prime Minister Abiy said, highlighting Singapore's immense potential in this sector. Trade and Investment: Both leaders agreed to strengthen ties on trade investment with a focus on logistics, manufacturing, aviation and tourism. Prime Minister Abiy invited "Singaporean investors to explore opportunities in industrial parks, in agro-industrial plants, in cities, in mining sectors." Skills Development and Institution Building: The partnership includes what Prime Minister Abiy called skilled development and institution building, recognizing that everyone gets inspired by Singapore's governance, its institutional ability, and the way it provide services for citizens. Green Urban Planning: Ethiopia seeks to learn from Singapore's experience in creating clean, green, beautiful cities. Prime Minister Abiy explained, "We really want to learn from you on how you plan on building such beautiful cities, such a connected infrastructure and such also beautiful spaces for neighborhood to come together." Mutual Benefits - Building Asia-Africa Bridge The partnership's genius lies in its mutual benefit structure. Singapore gains strategic access to Africa's fastest-growing economy and through it, the entire continent. "As hubs in our respective parts of the world, Singapore and Ethiopia can catalyze more trade and investment flows between Southeast Asia and Africa," Prime Minister Wong explained. For Singapore, this partnership opens doors to Africa's 1.3 billion people and abundant natural resources while positioning the city-state as the premier Asian gateway to African markets. The establishment of Singapore's first embassy in East Africa demonstrates this strategic commitment. Ethiopia gains access to Singapore's proven development model and advanced capabilities. "Singapore's remarkable journey and global reputation for innovation and good governance offers lessons we deeply value," Prime Minister Abiy acknowledged, noting that "most of my leadership visited your beautiful country. Everyone was impressed, also inspired big time." Shaping Future Cooperation This partnership represents a new model for cooperation that could inspire similar alliances across the world. Unlike traditional relationships often characterized by dependency, this partnership operates on what Prime Minister Wong called "a partnership of equals." "This is not about us teaching Ethiopia at all or offering lessons. It's a partnership of equals. It's a partnership of us working together closely for win-win partnership," Prime Minister Wong emphasized, defining the collaborative spirit that could become a template for future engagements. The tangible commitment is already evident. Singapore announced its "Singapore-Africa Partnership Leading to Growth and Sustainability Package" (SAPLINGS), offering African officials "customized study visits to Singapore, as well as executive education programmes and postgraduate scholarships in Singapore universities." Strategic Vision for Sustainable Growth The partnership's focus on sustainability adds another dimension to its significance. Both countries signed MoUs on carbon credits cooperation, particularly timely as Ethiopia prepares to host COP32 in 2027. "We will also deepen our collaboration in sustainability, particularly in carbon credits, so that both countries can help meet our respective climate targets," Prime Minister Wong announced. This environmental focus demonstrates how cooperation can lead global efforts on climate change, with developing nations pioneering solutions rather than merely implementing strategies designed elsewhere. Long-term Impact Beyond Bilateral Benefits The implications extend far beyond the bilateral relationship. "Together we can build a strong Asia-Africa bridge for sustainable growth and shared prosperity," Prime Minister Abiy declared, envisioning how this partnership could facilitate broader continental cooperation. The partnership's success could demonstrate that the fastest-developing economies can forge relationships that accelerate growth for all parties while challenging traditional assumptions about development cooperation. Ethiopia's rapid growth combined with Singapore's advanced capabilities creates a powerful model for how resource-rich and knowledge-rich nations can collaborate for mutual transformation. The Promise Ahead "Ethiopia is committed, Mr. Prime Minister, to a practical and futuristic partnership with Singapore," Prime Minister Abiy vowed, adding "We know that we can learn a lot from you. We also believe that we can offer for our partnership." This sentiment captures the essence of what could become a defining partnership for 21st century cooperation. As these two dynamic nations begin implementing their comprehensive cooperation framework, they are not just building bilateral ties but potentially creating a new paradigm for how the developing world can collaborate to achieve rapid, sustainable development. The world will be watching as Africa's fastest-growing economy and Asia's innovation hub work together to prove that the future belongs to partnerships built on mutual respect, complementary strengths, and shared aspirations for transformation.