By Staff Writer July 16, 2026 (ENA) The opening day of Ethiopia's National Dialogue Conference on Tuesday July 15th 2026 sent two complementary messages. Domestically, it presented the dialogue as a decisive opportunity to transform Ethiopia's political culture by replacing cycles of confrontation with a tradition of consultation, compromise and consensus. Internationally, it attracted strong endorsements from leading African statesmen and regional institutions, elevating the initiative beyond a national exercise into a process with continental significance. The opening ceremony brought together more than 4,000 representatives from across Ethiopia, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Ethiopian National Dialogue Chief Commissioner Professor Mesfin Araya, former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, and IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu. While each speaker approached the dialogue from a different perspective, their messages converged around several central themes: rejection of political violence, need for inclusive dialogue, Ethiopian ownership of the process, national reconciliation, institutional renewal and Africa's confidence that Ethiopia can emerge as a model for peaceful conflict resolution.   Ending Cycle of Political Violence Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed set the tone by diagnosing what he described as Ethiopia's longstanding political dilemma. "Our politics begins with strong words and ends with strong action. This divide must be stopped once and for all." Rather than portraying today's tensions as isolated events, the Prime Minister argued that Ethiopia has developed a political culture in which disagreements repeatedly escalate into violence because peaceful mechanisms for resolving disputes have remained weak. His central message was that Ethiopia now faces a rare opportunity to fundamentally change that tradition. "The opportunity before us today is not one that comes often. We are gathered here to write history together." He urged the representatives to place national interests above political, ethnic and ideological divisions, arguing that future generations should remember this gathering as the moment Ethiopia deliberately chose dialogue over division. Ethiopian National Dialogue Chief Commissioner, Professor Mesfin Araya, on his part reinforced the same diagnosis from the perspective of the National Dialogue Commission. "Our country has repeatedly attempted to settle disagreements through force, exclusion and temporary political arrangements. None of these approaches has delivered lasting peace."   For the Commission, the dialogue is not another political conference but an institutional attempt to replace force with consultation as Ethiopia's primary method of addressing disputes over governance, constitutional arrangements, identity, historical grievances, resource sharing, and national unity. One of the strongest themes running throughout the opening day was the unanimous rejection of violence as a political instrument. Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo offered perhaps the most forceful warning, drawing on Nigeria's own painful historical experience. "War does not bring any benefits," he said, adding that "a civil war is more serious and destructive than a war with an external enemy. We must (therefore) protect ourselves from civil war and conflict." His intervention carried particular moral authority because it reflected lessons learned from one of Africa's largest and most complex post conflict societies. Rather than offering theoretical observations, Obasanjo argued from experience that internal wars leave deeper institutional, social and psychological scars than conflicts with external enemies. IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu further expanded this argument beyond security. "No nation has ever been built or prospered through conflict." His remarks linked peace directly with national development, suggesting that countries achieve lasting progress only when they prioritize dialogue, compromise and collective national interests over confrontation. Together with Prime Minister Abiy and Ethiopian National Dialogue Chief Commissioner Professor Mesfin, the remarks formed a remarkably consistent message that Ethiopia's future cannot be secured through force but only through sustained political dialogue.   Listening Instead of Winning A defining feature of the opening ceremony was the emphasis on changing not only political outcomes but political behavior itself. The Ethiopian National Dialogue Chief Commissioner argued that disagreement is a normal characteristic of democratic societies. "Having different views is natural. The problem begins when we attempt to silence differences through violence instead of resolving them through discussion." He further emphasized that dialogue should never be viewed as a contest between winners and losers. "Dialogue is not about defeating another person. It is about finding common ground while respecting differences." Similarly, Prime Minister Abiy repeatedly encouraged participants to listen patiently and sincerely rather than attempting to impose predetermined positions. This represents a significant conceptual shift from zero sum politics toward consensus-based governance, where political disagreement is managed institutionally rather than violently.   Continental Model The invited African speakers consistently elevated the dialogue beyond Ethiopia's domestic political landscape. Obasanjo described the conference as being "of historic significance not only for Ethiopia but for the whole of Africa." He positioned Ethiopia's experience within a broader continental effort to demonstrate that African countries can solve their own political challenges through dialogue rather than prolonged conflict. African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, reinforced this position from the African Union's institutional perspective. "The Ethiopian National Dialogue is a foundation for lasting peace and national reconciliation." His statement reflects the African Union's broader policy preference for inclusive, nationally owned political processes as mechanisms for conflict prevention and post-conflict recovery. Similarly, IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu described the conference as a defining historical moment. "This historic conference is a significant event that will open a new chapter in Ethiopia's long and proud history." Collectively, these interventions transformed the conference from a national reconciliation exercise into what many African leaders clearly view as a potential continental reference point for managing complex political diversity.   Ethiopian Ownership and African Solutions Another major point of convergence was the insistence that Ethiopia itself must own both the dialogue and its outcomes. Ambassador Adeoye repeatedly described the process as nationally led, emphasizing that the African Union's role is to support rather than direct Ethiopia's political choices. IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh took this argument further by highlighting Ethiopia's own historical traditions of reconciliation. "There is no need to look abroad for solutions to our problems. Ethiopia has many positive and exemplary experiences that can guide this process." This reflects an increasingly prominent African philosophy that durable peace is most likely when countries build upon indigenous institutions, cultural traditions and locally accepted mechanisms instead of relying exclusively on externally designed political formulas. Beyond immediate conflict resolution, the speakers presented the dialogue as a long-term state building project. Obasanjo argued that the conference should ultimately produce "a strong and united Ethiopia," capable of rallying citizens around a shared national vision while positioning the country as one of Africa's leading states. Prime Minister Abiy similarly connected domestic unity with Ethiopia's strategic interests, suggesting that political fragmentation historically created opportunities for external actors to exploit internal divisions. National reconciliation, therefore, was presented not only as a political objective but also as an essential component of national sovereignty and regional influence. Professor Mesfin also emphasized that the conference should be viewed as the beginning rather than the conclusion of a much longer process. "This conference is not the destination. It is the beginning of a national journey toward understanding, trust, and lasting peace." His remarks highlighted the institutional maturity of the ENDC, which after nearly four years of nationwide consultations, agenda collection and stakeholder engagement, has now entered its substantive deliberation phase.   Regional Stability and Continental Stakes The African Union and IGAD made clear that Ethiopia's stability has implications extending well beyond its borders. For the African Union, the country's peace is closely linked to the stability of the Horn of Africa, particularly given the country's strategic position, diplomatic influence and role as host of the AU headquarters. Likewise, IGAD reaffirmed its commitment to accompany Ethiopia throughout the dialogue process, recognizing that developments inside Ethiopia inevitably affect regional security, trade, migration and political integration. Their endorsements therefore represent both solidarity with Ethiopia and recognition that successful dialogue would strengthen broader regional stability. Conclusion The opening day of Ethiopia's National Dialogue Conference established both the political philosophy and the strategic ambitions that are expected to guide the process in the weeks ahead. The messages delivered by the speakers focused on transforming Ethiopia's political culture by replacing confrontation with consultation, acknowledging historical grievances, strengthening institutions and encouraging compromise over coercion. These domestic messages were reinforced by a unified continental voice. Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo contributed historical perspective by warning against the devastating consequences of civil conflict and urging Ethiopians to build a united nation around shared aspiration. African Union Commissioner Ambassador Bankole Adeoye affirmed the dialogue as a nationally owned foundation for lasting peace and reconciliation, while IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu emphasized Ethiopia's own traditions of consultation and called on the country to demonstrate that dialogue remains the only sustainable path to national renewal.   Taken together, the speeches reveal an emerging consensus that Ethiopia's National Dialogue is more than a political conference. It is an ambitious attempt to redefine how one of Africa's oldest states manages diversity, resolves disputes and builds national consensus. Whether it ultimately succeeds will depend not on the symbolism of its opening, but on the willingness of participants to translate dialogue into durable agreements, institutional reforms, and a shared vision capable of securing lasting peace for future generations.

Addis Ababa, July 16, 2026 (ENA) —President Taye Atske Selassie bade farewell to Austrian Ambassador Simone Knapp and Czech Ambassador Miroslav Kosek upon the completion of their diplomatic missions in Ethiopia. The President commended the ambassadors for their efforts of strengthening socio-economic and political spheres of cooperation between Ethiopia and their respective countries. He emphasized the need for continuing collaboration building on the progress achieved. Speaking to ENA, Austria's Ambassador Knapp expressed gratitude for her four years in the country, describing Ethiopia as a “beautifully diverse” nation where she had meaningful interactions with Ethiopians throughout her tenure.   Ambassador Knapp credited Austrian–Ethiopian cooperation for enabling multiple diplomatic and development initiatives, including business engagement efforts that brought more than 25 Austrian companies to Ethiopia over the years to better understand the country and explore partnerships. A number of Austrian firms are already taking steps toward investing in Ethiopia and the momentum is supported by Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms she described as bold and confidence-building for investors. The Ambassador also pointed to strong people-to-people connections, long-standing university cooperation, and growing cultural links, including artistic exchanges involving both Austrian and Ethiopian musicians. Stating the over 120 years diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Austria, Ambassador Knapp pointed out that there remains room to deepen ties, particularly on the business front. For his part, Ambassador Kosek said his four-year mission was very fruitful in the efforts to strengthen bilateral relations.   He noted several areas of progress in business and culture that helped introduce Ethiopia to Central Europe while promoting the country as a tourism destination. The Ambassador described Ethiopia as a strategic partner for the Czech Republic in Africa, saying Czech efforts focus on expanding cooperation and promoting technology exchange in sectors including e-mobility, hydrogeology, and health, among others.

Addis Ababa, July 16, 2026 (ENA) —State Minister of Finance Semereta Sewasew and European Commissioner for International Partnerships Jozef Síkela held talks on expanding the Ethiopia-European Union strategic partnership, with discussions focusing on trade, investment, development finance, and sustainable economic transformation. According to the social media post, during the meeting, State Minister Semereta expressed Ethiopia's appreciation for the European Union's recent budget support agreement, describing it as a strong vote of confidence in the country's ongoing reform agenda and its commitment to supporting macroeconomic stability, sustainable growth, and improved development outcomes. She highlighted Ethiopia's continued efforts to strengthen economic governance and public financial management through reforms aimed at enhancing budget credibility, transparency, accountability, and public investment management, while creating a more predictable environment for development partners and investors. The two sides agreed that Ethiopia-EU relations are evolving into a broader strategic partnership driven by stronger economic cooperation, increased trade, investment promotion, and private sector engagement. Semereta said Ethiopia is seeking to attract greater European investment in priority sectors, including renewable energy, manufacturing, agro-processing, logistics, digital transformation, and industrial development. The discussions also explored opportunities to align Ethiopia's investment priorities with the European Union's Global Gateway strategy by leveraging blended finance, guarantees, and partnerships with European companies and financial institutions to mobilize greater private sector investment. The State Minister highlighted the strategic importance of the Bishoftu International Airport project, describing it as a transformative investment that will strengthen Ethiopia's regional connectivity, aviation capacity, and logistics network while reinforcing the country's role as a gateway for trade and investment in Africa. She invited greater participation from European companies, investors, and technical partners in the implementation and operation of the project. Semereta also underscored the significance of Ethiopia's coffee sector as a cornerstone of the country's export economy and proposed establishing an Ethiopia-EU Coffee Partnership Platform to promote sustainable, traceable, and value-added coffee supply chains through closer collaboration between governments, investors, financial institutions, and coffee companies. Regarding the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), she stressed the importance of continued cooperation to ensure sustainability requirements support, rather than hinder, Ethiopia's coffee sector by strengthening traceability systems, supporting smallholder farmers, mobilizing investment, and safeguarding Ethiopian coffee exports to the European market. The State Minister further briefed Commissioner Síkela on Ethiopia's assumption of the Chairmanship of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), noting that it presents an opportunity to advance stronger Africa-EU cooperation in trade, investment, climate action, sustainable development, and innovative financing. She also updated the Commissioner on Ethiopia's preparations to host COP32 and invited the European Union to strengthen cooperation on climate finance, green investment, and climate-resilient development initiatives. The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to further deepening the Ethiopia-European Union strategic partnership and translating their shared vision into concrete initiatives that promote investment, innovation, sustainable economic growth, and shared prosperity.

Addis Ababa, July 15, 2026 (ENA) —Egypt’s continued accusations against Ethiopia over GERD fail to reflect historical facts and the principles of equitable utilization and cooperation enshrined in international law, MP Mohammed Al-Arousi told ENA. He further underscored that the claims overlook the development rights of upstream Nile Basin countries. Speaking on unfounded accusation over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam GERD, Al-Arousi said portraying Ethiopia as acting alone over the Abay River distorts both historical facts and the legal framework governing shared international watercourses. HParticularly, his remarks came in response to repeated statements by Egyptian officials, which he said reflect not legal realities but a lingering nostalgia for an era of exclusive dominance over the Abay River. For instance, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty stated that negotiations over GERD had reached a deadlock. In that regard, Al-Arousi noted that more than 86 percent of the Abay's waters originate from Ethiopia, arguing that the country's pursuit of hydropower development reflects its sovereign right to utilize its natural resources in an equitable and reasonable manner. "Accusing Ethiopia of unilateralism is political propaganda that contradicts our long-standing diplomatic record of patience and flexibility," Al-Arousi said. The parliamentarian contended that the real legacy of unilateralism stems from decades of reliance on colonial-era agreements, he said. Rejecting what he described as an outdated centuries-old narrative surrounding the Abay River, he argued that it sought to grant Egypt exclusive control over the Nile while excluding upstream countries from decisions concerning the management and use of the shared river. According to Al-Arousi, Ethiopia's construction of the GERD represents a historic shift toward a more equitable and inclusive approach to Nile Basin water governance, replacing what he described as an outdated era of "water hegemony." He stressed that Ethiopia engaged in GERD negotiations for more than 13 years, consistently engaging in diplomatic dialogue and demonstrating restraint despite prolonged disagreements. During that period, he argued, negotiations were repeatedly delayed by positions taken by Egypt and at times Sudan—which he said sought to slow the project's implementation and introduce broader water allocation arrangements beyond the dam's technical scope. Al-Arousi also pointed to the 2015 Declaration of Principles, voluntarily signed by Ethiopia, Egypt, and Sudan in Khartoum, emphasizing that Article Five provides for the filling and operation of the dam to proceed alongside ongoing consultations. He said Ethiopia's successive filling and operational phases have been conducted in line with the agreement, making allegations of unilateral action legally and factually unfounded. The lawmaker further underscored that the GERD was constructed entirely within Ethiopia's internationally recognized territory and financed by Ethiopians without external loans, describing it as both a national development project and a milestone in advancing equitable management of transboundary water resources. "Ethiopia did not build merely a dam; it is rewriting the history of justice and equality in the Nile Basin," he said. Al-Arousi also maintained that Ethiopia's position is firmly anchored in international law. He cited the United Nations principle of permanent sovereignty over natural resources, which affirms every state's right to develop resources within its own territory, as well as the 1997 UN Convention on the Law of the Non-Navigational Uses of International Watercourses, whose core principles call for equitable and reasonable utilization of shared rivers. He noted that Egypt is not a party to the convention, adding that contemporary international water law no longer recognizes exclusive "historical rights" derived from agreements concluded without the participation of upstream states. Instead, he said, it is based on equitable utilization, taking into account geographic, hydrological, environmental, and developmental factors. Al-Arousi said Ethiopia's use of the Abay River is driven by the need to expand electricity access for more than 70 million citizens who still lack reliable power. He argued that denying upstream countries the opportunity to harness their natural resources for development has no legal, moral, or equitable basis. He stressed Ethiopia’s firm position that the GERD represents a pathway toward sustainable growth and a fairer partnership among countries sharing the Abay River.

Addis Ababa, July 15, 2026 (ENA) —Resolving differences through national dialogue will open a new chapter for Ethiopia, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Workneh Gebeyehu, said. Addressing the Ethiopian National Dialogue Conference today, the Executive Secretary said this historic dialogue will open a new chapter in Ethiopia’s long-standing and prestigious history. He pointed out that no country was built or profited from conflict in world’s history. Countries that have attained success today were able to prioritize their national interests by listening to one another and discussing, Workneh said, adding that differences can only be resolved through a peaceful manner and dialogue.   Stating that Ethiopia is not a new nation searching for its identity, the Executive Secretary said Ethiopia is the land of one of the ancient and strongest civilizations on earth. The country has deep and wonderful reconciliation mechanisms. The traditional problem resolving mechanisms are key instruments that can help cure Ethiopia's wounds, according to Workneh. He further stressed that there is no need for searching solutions from outside for internal problems, emphasizing the need for focusing on the plenty of positive and model mechanisms internally.   The national dialogue is a stage where Ethiopians can demonstrate in practice that they can resolve their differences through dialogue and mutual respect. The Executive Secretary finally underscored that Ethiopia's history will be shaped through dialogue, urging all to resolve issues through dialogue while reaffirming IGAD’s commitment to stand firmly by Ethiopia's side in this historic journey.

Addis Ababa, July 15, 2026 (ENA) — The European Union is committed to deepening its partnership with Ethiopia through expanded cooperation in investment, digital governance, renewable energy, and critical raw materials, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the European Commission, Kaja Kallas, said. She made the remarks after holding separate talks with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Foreign Affairs Minister Gedion Timothewos during her visit to Addis Ababa. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Kallas said the discussions focused on strengthening Ethiopia-EU relations, enhancing EU-Africa cooperation, addressing regional security challenges, and identifying new areas of economic collaboration. "Our two meetings were about EU and Ethiopia relations—how we can make them stronger and what more we can do together," the High Representative said, noting that regional security issues were also high on the agenda. Highlighting the growing interest of European companies in Ethiopia, Kallas said businesses are eager to invest and expand their operations in the country. "They (businesses) are very much interested in working together and investing here in Ethiopia. But they also need to see that there is a business environment that is really welcoming," she said, adding that concerns related to retroactive laws and taxation were raised during her discussions with Ethiopian officials. The High Representative identified digital governance as one of the key areas where Ethiopia and the European Union can strengthen cooperation, saying digital technologies can improve public service delivery and create new economic opportunities. She also underscored the importance of energy cooperation, noting that Ethiopia's abundant renewable energy resources combined with Europe's technological expertise present significant opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships. "You (Ethiopians) have plenty of renewable energy. We have the know-how. So, we can put them together not only for the benefit of your people, but also for the benefit of our people." Kallas further pointed to Ethiopia's critical raw materials as another strategic sector for cooperation, stressing that the European Union supports development of these minerals. "You have the raw materials. (And) our offer is that we want the jobs and growth to stay in Africa because it's jobs for your people," she stressed. The High Representative stated that creating jobs, promoting stability and strengthening security in Africa are the shared interest of both partners, noting that sustainable development also contributes to addressing the root causes of irregular migration. "It is very much in both of our interests that we work together on these issues," she said. The visit comes as Ethiopia and the European Union seek to further strengthen their longstanding partnership. Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said he had held a productive meeting with Kallas, during which they exchanged views on reinforcing the strategic partnership between Africa and the European Union, addressing regional challenges and expanding economic cooperation. Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos also reaffirmed Ethiopia's commitment to deepening its longstanding partnership with the EU. During his meeting with Kallas, he briefed her on the National Dialogue Conference, describing it as an inclusive, transparent and nationally led process aimed at building consensus, strengthening national unity and promoting lasting peace. The two sides affirmed their commitment to further enhancing Ethiopia-EU cooperation across all areas of mutual interest and underscored the importance of the upcoming Third Ethiopia-European Union Structured Dialogue as a key platform for advancing their strategic engagement.

Addis Ababa, July 15, 2026 (ENA) —Former Nigerian President and African Union Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Olusegun Obasanjo, has stressed the historic significance of the Ethiopian national dialogue for both Ethiopia and the wider African continent. At the opening of the National Dialogue Conference today, Obasanjo expressed profound appreciation to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed for his visionary leadership, patriotism, and dedication to the future of Ethiopia. He also reflected on the deep-rooted historical and social parallels shared between Nigeria and Ethiopia, noting their similar paths in navigating national challenges. Underscoring the critical importance of drawing lessons from history, the former Nigerian President cautioned that internal conflict yields no benefits and is far more devastating than fighting an external adversary. He emphasized that nations must diligently guard against the perils of civil strife, urging the public to protect the fabric of their unity. Lauding Ethiopia's ongoing peace-building initiatives, Obasanjo commended the National Dialogue Commission for its remarkable achievements and meticulous preparations to date. He outlined that the primary strategic objectives of the dialogue are to forge a robust, unified society and to rally all Ethiopians around a singular grand vision. The former President further highlighted that positioning Ethiopia as a leading force in Africa and a beacon of opportunity on the global stage remains a vital strategic pillar of the dialogue. He expressed confidence that these noble aspirations are fully attainable, urging the assembly to remain steadfastly focused on these strategic goals to achieve enduring success.

Addis Ababa, July 15, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held talks with EU High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, early this afternoon. The two sides discussed about ways of deepening EU-Africa relations, addressing regional challenges, and expanding economic cooperation. Following the meeting, Prime Minister Abiy wrote on X that the discussion was productive, saying both sides exchanged views on key areas of mutual interest aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between Africa and the European Union. "I was pleased to welcome EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, for a productive meeting today," the Prime Minister said.   The talks centered on reinforcing EU-Africa relations, while also addressing pressing regional issues of shared concern, he added. PM Abiy and EU High Representative Kallas further explored strategic avenues to broaden economic cooperation, underscoring their commitment to enhancing trade, investment and development partnerships between Ethiopia, Africa and the European Union.