By Staff Writer   Sept. 20, 2026 The second week of September 2026 placed Ethiopia’s strategic interests in water, maritime access, diplomacy and economic transformation firmly at the center of national and international attention. Across Ethiopian media, the Abay/Nile and Red Sea emerged as two defining themes. Discussions on the Nile focused on equitable and sustainable utilization of shared water resources and Ethiopia’s role as the source of the Abay, while the country’s long-standing quest for reliable access to the Red Sea gained fresh momentum from government officials, researchers and geopolitical commentators. At the same time, Ethiopia’s diplomatic engagement remained active, with ambassadors and senior representatives from several countries reaffirming their interest in deepening bilateral partnerships in areas ranging from agriculture and technology to green development and people-to-people relations. The week also highlighted Ethiopia’s growing engagement on global and regional platforms, from the International Atomic Energy Agency’s General Conference in Vienna to the IGAD forum on El Niño preparedness in the Horn of Africa. Together, these developments point to a broader strategic narrative: Ethiopia is increasingly linking water resources, maritime access, regional security, diplomatic partnerships and economic transformation as interconnected elements of its long-term national interests. Abay/Nile: A Debate Over Rights, Development and a Changing Basin   The Nile once again occupied a prominent place in Ethiopia’s public discourse. Getachew Reda, Minister and Advisor to the Ethiopian Prime Minister on East African Affairs, sharply criticized what he described as Egypt’s continued attempt to assert exclusive control over the Nile, arguing that such an approach is increasingly disconnected from the realities of the region. In an exclusive interview with The Pulse of Africa, Getachew said Egypt had developed what he characterized as an “artificial reality” around the Nile and argued that the river should be viewed through the realities of geography, science and the development needs of all riparian states.   Former Ethiopian House of People’s Representatives Speaker Teshome Toga similarly argued that Egypt needs to adjust its Nile strategy to the realities of the 21st century. In his an analytical article published on, Teshome pointed to population growth, climate change, rising energy demand, food insecurity and economic development as factors that have fundamentally changed the Nile Basin. He called for a framework based on cooperation, equity and mutual respect rather than what he described as outdated colonial-era assumptions. The Abay’s contribution to the Nile was also central to the discussion. According to Teshome, the Blue Nile, which originates in the Ethiopian highlands, contributes about 86 percent of the Nile’s annual flow, underscoring Ethiopia’s central geographical position in the basin.   Senior researcher Abdushakur Abdussamad, meanwhile, told ENA that what he described as the political instrumentalization of the Nile and the stereotyping of upstream countries have shaped negative perceptions in Egypt toward Nile Basin countries, particularly Ethiopia. He argued that repeated media narratives portraying the Nile as exclusively belonging to Egypt have contributed to the perception that development projects in other basin countries necessarily threaten Egypt’s water interests. The competing narratives underscore a broader challenge for the Nile Basin: how to reconcile downstream water dependence with the development aspirations and utilization rights of upstream countries through a cooperative and sustainable framework. Red Sea Access Moves to the Center of Ethiopia’s Strategic Affairs If the Nile dominated the water debate, the Red Sea increasingly dominated the maritime one. Senior Ethiopian officials, researchers and academics this week linked access to the sea with economic development, national security, regional integration and Ethiopia’s wider diplomatic role. At a panel discussion organized by the Addis Ababa Leadership Academy, participants stressed that Ethiopia’s maritime interests should be pursued through peaceful dialogue, diplomatic engagement, cooperation and mutually beneficial arrangements.   Gizachew Asrat, Chief of Staff and Senior Researcher for the Horn of Africa at IFA, said consensus around Ethiopia’s role and presence in the Red Sea is growing. He argued that Ethiopia’s expanding population, economy and trade, together with regional security considerations, make maritime access an increasingly important strategic issue. For Addis Ababa University researcher Tesfaye Jima, the issue goes beyond commercial considerations. “The Red Sea is an existential issue for Ethiopia,” he said, linking maritime access to the country’s security, sovereignty, economy and diplomatic influence. He also pointed to Ethiopia’s future import and export requirements, agricultural and fishing interests, and its broader regional engagement. The debate also received international diplomatic resonance during the week. Israeli Ambassador to Ethiopia Avraham Neguise reaffirmed Israel’s support for Ethiopia’s quest for sea access, describing stability in the Red Sea and a stronger Ethiopia as matters of broader international interest. The growing discussion therefore increasingly connects the Abay/Nile and Red Sea as two strategic questions with implications extending well beyond Ethiopia’s borders. Ethiopia on Global Platforms and Regional Preparedness Ethiopia’s international engagement was not limited to the Nile and Red Sea. In Vienna, the country participated in the 70th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency, where member states are discussing nuclear safety and security, nuclear technology applications and the peaceful uses of nuclear science.   Ethiopia’s participation reflects the country’s continued engagement with global institutions on issues ranging from energy and technology to food security, environmental management and sustainable development. Closer to home, Addis Ababa hosted the IGAD Regional High-Level Forum on El Niño Preparedness for the Horn of Africa. Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Deputy Commissioner Aydrus Hassan stressed that the potential effects of El Niño require political leadership, national ownership, regional solidarity, timely financing and early action—not simply technical preparedness.   He said Ethiopia is strengthening its disaster-risk management system around monitoring, forecasting, impact assessment, early warning, preparedness, anticipatory action and response. The country is also seeking greater national self-reliance through its Disaster Risk Response Fund. The IGAD forum similarly called for stronger contingency planning, pre-positioning of essential supplies, health surveillance, protection of food systems and expanded anticipatory action across the region. Diplomacy: Partnerships Broadening Beyond Traditional Politics Ethiopia’s diplomatic landscape also remained active, with a series of interviews with foreign diplomats highlighting the breadth of the country’s international partnerships. Ethiopia-Israel relations, according to Ambassador Avraham Neguise, extend across agriculture, health, technology, water, energy, investment and capacity building. He described the relationship as one that has evolved from deep historical ties into a broad modern partnership.   Germany and Denmark, meanwhile, highlighted cultural diplomacy, people-to-people relations, academic cooperation and green transformation as important components of their longstanding partnerships with Ethiopia. Germany’s Deputy Head of Mission Ferdinand von Weyhe emphasized that high-level political engagement needs to be complemented by direct connections between the peoples of the two countries. Denmark’s Deputy Head of Mission Mirja Crone pointed to cooperation on green transformation, bringing Danish expertise together with Ethiopian companies and professionals to promote more sustainable economic growth. The diplomatic messages came alongside New Year greetings from German, Finnish and Danish diplomatic missions, which expressed hopes for peace, prosperity and stronger relations with Ethiopia. Taken together, the engagements show diplomacy extending beyond traditional political relations into technology, agriculture, climate action, culture, education, investment and sustainable development. Economic Front: Confidence, Capacity and Reform Economic transformation formed another important layer of the week’s narrative. Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Tibor Nagy praised Ethiopian Airlines for what he described as its strategic discipline, technical capability and operational professionalism, highlighting the carrier’s investment in training and technical capacity as key elements of its international reputation.   Ethiopian-American businessman Zemedeneh Negatu, CEO of CBE Capital Investment Bank, meanwhile argued that Ethiopia has the potential to sustain annual economic growth of between 9 and 11 percent over the coming decades, citing agriculture, manufacturing, natural resources, tourism and the country’s large young population as potential engines of growth. He particularly highlighted the transition from subsistence agriculture to mechanized and commercial production, the expansion of manufacturing and the potential for a more technology-driven economy. The economic conversation also increasingly centered on reform and investment.   International Finance Corporation Managing Director Makhtar Diop said Ethiopia had made progress in addressing constraints that previously affected private-sector investment, particularly foreign-exchange pressures, inflation and reserve levels. He also identified opportunities in digital technology, tourism, aviation, infrastructure and renewable energy. Meanwhile, Ethiopia’s focus on technology and artificial intelligence emerged as another component of its economic transformation, with Zemedeneh emphasizing digital skills, automation and the country’s young population as potential drivers of future competitiveness. A Week Defined by Strategic Convergence The week’s developments reveal a striking convergence of issues that are often discussed separately. The Abay/Nile issue is increasingly framed around development, equitable utilization and regional cooperation. The Red Sea debate connects maritime access with trade, security, sovereignty and regional integration. Diplomacy is expanding into technology, agriculture, climate action, culture and investment, while economic reform is being linked to Ethiopia’s ambition to strengthen its position in regional and global affairs. From the Nile Basin to the Red Sea, from Vienna to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s strategic conversation is therefore extending beyond individual disputes or diplomatic engagements toward a broader question: how can the country translate its geographic position, natural resources, economic potential and international partnerships into long-term national and regional development? That question and the competing interests surrounding it—is likely to remain central to Ethiopia’s domestic and international agenda in the weeks ahead.

Addis Ababa, September 20, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s expanding renewable energy capacity and growing cross-border grid interconnections are proving to be a key catalyst for regional economic integration, according to a European Union (EU) official. Generating over 95 percent of its electricity from renewable sources, Ethiopia has established itself as a leading regional clean energy hub. Speaking to ENA, Adrián Cano Guerrero, Program Officer for Trade, Economic and Private Sector Development at the EU Delegation to Ethiopia, affirmed that the EU continues to partner with Ethiopia and regional bodies to foster integration by enhancing infrastructure, transport, logistics, trade facilitation, and connectivity. He further elaborated on the vital role of institutions like the African Union (AU), the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the Horn of Africa Initiative play in driving economic transformation and fostering stronger regional cooperation. “The work that we are doing through several of institutions, IGAD, the African Union, the Horn of Africa Initiative is in the end, the way that we seek regional integration” he stressed. Guerrero reiterated the EU's commitment to supporting regional connectivity and integration initiatives in close partnership with multilateral institutions. He highlighted that special emphasis is being placed on the energy sector, with EU support covering electricity transmission and distribution both within Ethiopia and across neighboring borders.   Collaboration with the Eastern Africa Power Pool, along with ongoing efforts to expand renewable generation and cross-border grid connections, aims to solidify regional energy integration, he added. The EU has also supported investments aimed at expanding electricity access across Ethiopia while promoting clean energy development and regional integration, the official noted. Ethiopia’s engagement with neighboring countries through energy connectivity provides key opportunities to boost trade integration and connectivity across the region. “What we are aiming for is for energy generation to be a driving force of Ethiopia’s growth and empowerment,” Guerrero said, emphasizing that expanding renewable energy generation and transmission holds significance far beyond Ethiopia’s domestic energy needs. Pointing to Ethiopia’s electricity exports to neighboring countries, including Kenya and Sudan, he noted that cross-border energy trade generates vital revenue for Ethiopia while fostering deeper regional economic cooperation. The expansion of electricity transmission infrastructure and renewable power generation creates enduring opportunities for stronger economic ties among neighboring nations, he explained. Reaffirming the EU's commitment, the official stated that the EU will continue partnering with Ethiopia and regional institutions to advance connectivity initiatives that drive sustainable economic growth and integration across the region.

Addis Ababa, September 20, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s quest for reliable access to the Red Sea is an unavoidable national imperative,a co-founder and former Deputy Director of the East African Policy Research Institute (EAPRI), Birhanu Lenjiso said. Birhanu, author of Water: ‘Ethiopia’s Gateway to Prosperity,’ told ENA that Ethiopia’s growing population, expanding economy, and strategic position in the Horn of Africa make securing sea access an inevitable national objective. Ethiopia’s pursuit of sea access should also be viewed in the broader context of Abay/Nile, he argued that the political and strategic dynamics surrounding the two issues are closely interconnected. Speaking about Ethiopia’s historical relationship with the sea, he pointed to the Aksumite civilization, which was closely associated with maritime trade and commercial links across the Red Sea.   For Birhanu, Ethiopia’s interest in maritime access therefore extends beyond its immediate economic and logistical needs. “We are not really asking for maritime access because we need a port, or because we have a large population, or because our economy is growing,” he said. He argued that Ethiopia’s historical experience and longstanding links with maritime commerce should form part of the country’s case when engaging with the international community on access to the sea. Birhanu, who is also a former State Minister for Irrigation Development, said Ethiopia should strengthen this narrative by bringing together historical evidence with contemporary economic and strategic considerations. He described maritime access as “part and parcel of Ethiopian identity,” saying the historical dimension should not be overlooked in discussions about Ethiopia’s relationship with the Red Sea and the wider maritime environment. Against this background, Birhanu said Ethiopia’s objective is to diversify its maritime access and establish arrangements that can provide greater reliability. “All Ethiopia is asking is to have diversified access to the sea,” he said. He said Ethiopia’s large and growing market gives maritime access a broader economic dimension, while developments in the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa have made the issue increasingly significant from a regional perspective. According to Birhanu, Ethiopia’s access to the sea could generate benefits beyond the country by connecting its large economy more directly with regional maritime trade and stimulating economic activity across the Horn of Africa.   He said Ethiopia does not necessarily need to pursue a single model for maritime access, pointing instead to a range of possible arrangements with coastal states. These could include long-term lease agreements, infrastructure corridors, and jointly developed transport and logistics projects, he said. He cited Ethiopia’s longstanding use of the Djibouti corridor as an example of how cross-border infrastructure and economic interests can create mutually beneficial arrangements. At the same time, Birhanu said dependence on a single major maritime route creates vulnerabilities, making diversification important for Ethiopia’s long-term economic interests. Asked whether Ethiopia’s pursuit of maritime access is inevitable, Birhanu said the country’s demographic and economic trajectory would continue to increase the importance of securing dependable access to international maritime routes. He also linked Ethiopia’s maritime aspirations to the broader security and economic dynamics of the Horn of Africa.   The region has extensive coastlines and occupies a strategically important position along major international maritime routes, while also facing persistent security challenges, he noted. In his view, greater economic integration between Ethiopia and coastal states could contribute to trade, infrastructure development, and regional stability. He argued that Ethiopia’s large consumer market and economic potential could become an asset for coastal countries if appropriate access and infrastructure arrangements are developed. Birhanu said Ethiopia’s maritime access and its position on the Nile share what he described as a common underlying principle: equitable use of regional resources. He argued that Ethiopia’s discussions over Abay/Nile and its pursuit of access to the Red Sea should therefore not be treated as entirely separate strategic questions. “I don't really see maritime access or maritime access challenge as a separate topic. I believe it is very much connected to the Nile issue. The two waters are separate, but their politics is very much interconnected,” he said. He said Ethiopia’s approach is centered on development and equitable access rather than control over the resources of other countries.   “We are asking for equity everywhere. We are asking for development. We are not asking for domination,” Birhanu said. He maintained that Ethiopia’s maritime aspirations should ultimately be viewed within the broader objective of strengthening regional economic integration and enabling the country to participate more directly in maritime trade. “We are not looking for confrontation on Nile. We are not looking for confrontation on the Red Sea. We are looking for cooperation,” he said. Birhanu said such an approach could allow Ethiopia to advance its economic interests while creating opportunities for coastal countries and contributing to the development and security of the wider Horn of Africa and the Red Sea region.

By Gezmu Edicha Sept. 20, 2026 Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s participation in the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi was more than a routine diplomatic engagement. It was a clear moment of strategic significance for Ethiopia. In a world where influence is increasingly shaped by alliances, trade access, financial cooperation, and political positioning, Ethiopia played an active role with vision, ambition, and growing global relevance. For Ethiopia, the summit carried both symbolic and practical value. Symbolically, it reinforced the country’s place among emerging powers and reform-minded states seeking a fairer international order. Practically, it opened doors to concrete gains in trade, investment, aviation, climate diplomacy, technology transfer, and financial cooperation. These outcomes align closely with Ethiopia’s Home-Grown Economic Reform and its long-term development priorities. What made this summit important for Ethiopia was the way Prime Minister Abiy translated high-level diplomacy into tangible national benefit. Rather than treating the BRICS platform as a photo opportunity, he used it to advance specific national interests with precision and persistence. Diplomatic win on the global trade front One of the most important outcomes of the summit was the strong support Ethiopia received for its World Trade Organization accession process. According to the BRICS New Delhi Declaration, all member states expressed backing for Ethiopia’s entry into the WTO. This matters because WTO membership is a gateway to greater market access, stronger investor confidence, and deeper integration into the global economy. For Ethiopia, this endorsement carries real weight. It strengthens the country’s hand in ongoing negotiations and sends a message to the international community that Ethiopia’s reform is being recognized by influential global actors. In practical terms, this kind of support can help accelerate Ethiopia’s integration into global supply chains and improve its ability to compete under fair, rules-based trade arrangements. Just as important was the recognition of Ethiopia’s candidacy for an expanded seat on the International Civil Aviation Organization Council, which is backed by the African Union, and formally supported in the New Delhi Declaration. Ethiopia is home to Ethiopian Airlines, one of Africa’s most successful and globally respected carriers. Backing Ethiopia for this role reflects not only the country’s aviation expertise, but also its broader contribution to Africa’s air connectivity and transport leadership. Climate leadership and the road to COP32 The other major achievement is the endorsement of Ethiopia to host the 32nd United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP32) in 2027. This is a big diplomatic and reputational win. Hosting such a major global summit places Ethiopia at the center of international climate discussions and gives the country an opportunity to shape the agenda around issues that matter deeply to Africa and the developing world. Prime Minister Abiy’s vision for COP32 is rooted in practical climate action, equitable climate finance, and green development. This message therefore fits well with Ethiopia’s broader environmental agenda, especially the Green Legacy Initiative, which has become one of the country’s most visible national programs. It also builds on Ethiopia’s growing investment in renewable energy and sustainable development. If successfully delivered, COP32 in Addis Ababa could do more than showcase Ethiopia to the world. It could strengthen the country’s leadership in climate diplomacy, attract international partnerships, and highlight Ethiopia as a nation capable of hosting and shaping major global events. Financial cooperation for more resilient economic future In the financial sphere, the summit offered Ethiopia important long-term opportunities. A key focus of the BRICS financial architecture was the promotion of local-currency settlement systems and cross-border payment platforms. For Ethiopia, this is especially relevant. Like many developing economies, Ethiopia continues to face pressure from foreign exchange shortages and external currency shocks. A system that allows trade settlement in local currencies could reduce dependence on hard currency, lower transaction costs, and create more stability for importers and exporters. Trade with countries such as China, India, and Russia could become smoother and less expensive when these systems are effectively implemented. Ethiopia also advocated for faster and more predictable debt resolution mechanisms, as well as stronger liquidity support through the expansion of the Contingent Reserve Arrangement. These are not abstract financial ideas. They are practical tools that can help protect developing countries from sudden shocks and provide breathing room during periods of fiscal stress. In simple terms, Ethiopia used the summit to push for a more balanced global financial system—one that does not leave developing nations vulnerable to the decisions and pressures of richer economies. Bilateral diplomacy that opened new doors Beyond the formal plenary sessions, the summit’s sidelines proved equally valuable. Intensive bilateral meetings produced promising openings in several strategic sectors. Talks between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reportedly focused on critical minerals, renewable energy, and pharmaceutical manufacturing. These are all high-value sectors with the potential to support Ethiopia’s industrialization and improve national resilience. They also discussed about enhancing defence cooperation, technology transfer, capacity building, and partnership towards COP32. Engagements with Russian President Vladimir Putin were also fruitful as the leaders held constructive discussion about strengthening the strategic partnership between Ethiopia and Russia. They also explored opportunities to expand educational exchanges and deepen collaboration in cultural and people-to-people ties. These matter because Ethiopia’s development challenge is not only about capital. It is also about capability. The ability to learn, adapt, and transfer technology is essential for long-term transformation. By building these kinds of partnerships, Ethiopia is positioning itself to access expertise and innovation that can strengthen its domestic economy. Ethiopia as bridge between Africa and Global South Perhaps the most important strategic takeaway from the summit is the increasing recognition of Ethiopia as more than a national state pursuing narrow interests. It is emerging as a bridge between Africa and the Global South, between regional integration and global partnerships, and between diplomatic ambition and economic transformation. As host of the African Union headquarters and a diplomatic hub on the continent, Ethiopia occupies a unique position. It can connect African priorities with broader international conversations in ways that few countries can. This gives Ethiopia a powerful platform to advocate not only for its own development, but also for the interests of Africa as a whole. With its population of more than 135 million, vast agricultural potential, strategic location, and growing industrial ambitions, Ethiopia has real assets to bring to the table. The BRICS summit showed that it is using those assets with increasing confidence.

Addis Ababa, September 20, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates are stepping up efforts to deepen partnership in various spheres, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to the UAE, Jemal Beker told ENA. The Special Envoy and Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary highlighted the expanding partnership as the two countries accelerate cooperation in investment, tourism, trade, and other economic sectors to turn growing diplomatic ties into tangible business opportunities. He said Ethiopia’s ongoing macroeconomic reforms are helping create a more favorable environment for foreign investment by improving the investment climate, attracting international capital, and strengthening the country’s integration into the global economy. The Ethiopian Embassy in the UAE, he added, is playing an active role in promoting Ethiopia’s investment opportunities and connecting Ethiopian businesses and projects with potential international investors. Ethiopia’s abundant renewable energy resources, large and youthful workforce, strategic geographic position, and international connectivity—including through Ethiopian Airlines, are among the country’s major investment advantages, Ambassador Jemal pointed out. The embassy is leveraging international conferences, business forums, investment events, and direct engagement with the private sector to showcase these opportunities and facilitate stronger links between Ethiopian and UAE-based investors. Ambassador Jemal also highlighted the participation of an Ethiopian delegation led by President Taye Atske Selassie in the annual Global Investment Meeting in the UAE as an important platform for presenting Ethiopia’s investment potential and further strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries. Beyond investment, Ethiopia and the UAE are working to expand bilateral trade by consolidating existing markets while identifying new areas of commercial cooperation. The embassy is engaging relevant stakeholders and businesses to facilitate stronger connections and help increase trade flows between the two countries. Tourism is also emerging as another important area of bilateral cooperation. Ethiopia is seeking to attract more visitors from the UAE by promoting its rich historical and cultural heritage, diverse natural landscapes, and growing tourism destinations. Initiatives such as “Dine for Nation” are being increasingly promoted to international audiences as part of efforts to position Ethiopia as an attractive tourism destination. The two countries are also exploring greater cooperation in technology transfer, professional expertise, and technical support. Such partnerships could strengthen knowledge sharing, capacity building, and access to technologies that support Ethiopia’s broader economic transformation. Ambassador Jemal said Ethiopia will continue working with the UAE to expand trade and investment, attract more tourists, and strengthen cooperation in technology and professional expertise. The efforts, he noted, reflect the two countries’ broader push to turn their growing bilateral relationship into tangible economic opportunities for businesses and people in both countries.

Addis Ababa, September 18, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s abundant renewable electricity resources provide a strong strategic foundation for transitioning from diesel-powered transport to electric mobility, according to TradeMark Africa. The organization highlighted the move's potential to reduce transport costs, cut carbon emissions, and enhance regional trade competitiveness. Ewnetu Taye, TradeMark Africa’s Country Director for Ethiopia, shared these insights in an interview with ENA on the sidelines of the Nordic Africa EV Summit, held in Addis Ababa from September 14 to 16. Ethiopia’s abundant renewable energy resources, particularly hydropower, provide a strong foundation for the country’s transition to electric mobility, TradeMark Africa Country Director in Ethiopia Ewnetu Taye said. Ewnetu said the country’s expanding hydropower generation, including electricity from the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), could help accelerate the shift from diesel powered transport to electric vehicles. Greater use of electricity in transport could reduce Ethiopia’s dependence on imported diesel while enabling the country to make greater use of its domestic renewable energy resources, he said. “Using the electricity, which is cheap in Ethiopia, is reducing cost of transport,” Ewnetu said. He said lower transport costs could strengthen the competitiveness of Ethiopian imports and exports by reducing the cost of moving goods along major trade corridors. Reduced transport costs could also contribute to increased trade and job creation, he added, giving the transition to electric mobility economic benefits beyond its potential to reduce carbon emissions. The potential is particularly significant in freight transport, where Ethiopia is developing electric trucking initiatives along major trade corridors. Ewnetu identified the Ethio Djibouti corridor, one of the country’s main routes for import and export cargo, as a key focus of electric trucking initiatives under Ethiopia’s five year electric mobility strategy. Introducing electric trucks along high volume trade corridors could help connect Ethiopia’s renewable electricity resources with its transport and logistics system while reducing the costs associated with diesel powered freight movement, he said. However, Ewnetu stressed that the transition requires an enabling ecosystem capable of supporting electric freight transport along major corridors. He identified charging infrastructure, suitable road systems and local technical capacity as key areas that require attention for the successful implementation of electric trucking. Experiences from Nordic countries and other African countries have also helped identify practical requirements and capacity gaps that Ethiopia needs to address as it develops its electric trucking system, he said. Ewnetu said TradeMark Africa is working with partners to support electric trucking initiatives, particularly along the Ethio Djibouti corridor. Beyond transport, he said Ethiopia’s broader efforts to expand renewable energy and promote environmental sustainability provide further opportunities to advance the country’s green development agenda. He cited the country’s hydropower development and large scale tree planting initiatives as examples that could offer lessons to other African countries seeking to expand renewable energy and climate related development. For Ethiopia, Ewnetu said, combining renewable electricity with electric mobility presents an opportunity to reduce transport emissions while addressing the economic costs associated with dependence on imported diesel. TradeMark Africa is an Aid for Trade organization that supports trade facilitation, regional integration and market access across Africa.

Addis Ababa, September 17, 2026 (ENA) —TheEthiopia’s quest for sovereign access to the Red Sea has been witnessing growing consensus, Chief of Staff and Senior Researcher of the Horn of Africa at IFA, Gizachew Asrat, said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Gizachew said Ethiopia’s quest for sea access is gaining momentum as a great asset for the Red Sea region. He noted that “there is a great consensus on Ethiopia’s access to the sea or presence in the sea issues.” Today, Ethiopia’s access to the sea is increasingly viewed as a legitimate strategic right, driven by its growing population and economy, expanding import-export trade, and pressing national and regional security interests. The country’s geographical proximity to the Red Sea, together with its historical links to the region’s ports, has remained central to its argument for pursuing a sustainable maritime outlet.   Ethiopia historically administered the ports of Massawa and Assab and maintained naval capabilities before Eritrea’s separation. The Senior Researcher further stated that there is a common understanding that Ethiopia should be around the sea and should also play a great role in the sea in terms of economy and security. He emphasized the significance of advancing on trust-building and cooperation between neighboring countries, and the global community. The researcher, particularly stressed the need for understanding the real intent of Ethiopia's quest for access to the sea. “The geopolitical, geo-economic, technology and energy, and everything are interconnected and interlinked between the maritime, the sea and the land,” he said. Gizachew elaborated that the interconnected nature of regional challenges requires countries to focus on common threats and interests rather than treating maritime and land-based security as separate issues. In this regard, Ethiopia's return to reliable sea access is vital for peace, regional integration and collective security of the Horn of Africa and beyond, he asserted. “Engaging Ethiopia on the Red Sea platform is an asset for the region,” Gizachew said, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation and partnership. Maritime security should also be examined from wider geopolitical and geo-economic perspectives, particularly given the strategic importance of global waterways and the competition surrounding them. Gizachew further emphasized that Ethiopia is part of the global economic and security system and therefore needs to remain engaged in issues affecting the Red Sea and international maritime routes.   “We are part of the globe and we have to be engaged there and definitely Ethiopia should have to be around the sea or on the sea,” he said. He underscored the importance of working closely with regional states and institutions, noting that Ethiopia's return to the sea will be instrumental not only for its national interest but also crucial for ensuring regional stability. Having a huge population, a growing economy, and a strategic location, the return of Ethiopia’s access to the sea is a vital geopolitical imperative for securing maritime security in the Horn of Africa and the wider Red Sea corridor, the senior researcher stressed. As the world’s most populous landlocked nation, the country’s strategic push to reconnect with the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden corridors represents a foundational pillar for both its domestic survival and the broader geopolitical integration.

Addis Ababa, September 17, 2026 (ENA) —The International Finance Corporation (IFC) has welcomed Ethiopia’s economic reform efforts, saying progress in the foreign-exchange market, international reserves and inflation is helping address some of the key constraints that previously discouraged private-sector investment. Speaking exclusively to The Pulse of Africa, IFC Managing Director Makhtar Diop said Ethiopia had made significant progress in tackling economic challenges that had historically created uncertainty for investors. Reflecting on his previous engagement with Ethiopia, Diop said three major constraints stood out: high inflation, foreign-exchange pressures and inadequate reserve levels. According to Diop, these challenges directly affected the ability of businesses to operate and invest. Foreign-exchange shortages, for instance, made it difficult for companies to import essential goods and could create difficulties in repatriating profits. He said Ethiopia has since taken steps to address these constraints, pointing particularly to the move toward a more flexible exchange-rate system, the rebuilding of foreign-exchange reserves and the reduction in inflation. Diop noted that inflation, which had previously remained in double digits, has now fallen into single-digit territory at certain points, although it continues to fluctuate depending on economic conditions. For private-sector investors, Diop explained, these developments are important because investment decisions depend heavily on economic predictability. Diop said these fundamentals are critical for attracting private capital, emphasizing that investors need a degree of certainty before committing resources to a market. He therefore credited the Ethiopian government for taking what he described as serious steps to address the economic constraints that had previously weighed on private-sector investment. His assessment places Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms within a broader effort to create a more predictable environment for domestic and international businesses, with implications for investment, trade, infrastructure and private-sector-led growth across the country. For Africa, the developments also highlight the importance of macroeconomic stability, access to foreign exchange and investment certainty in unlocking greater private-sector participation in the continent’s economic transformation. Diop also highlighted opportunities in Ethiopia’s digital economy, tourism, aviation, infrastructure and renewable energy sectors, as well as the country’s potential to attract investment into housing. During his 1–3 September visit to Ethiopia, IFC Managing Director Makhtar Diop met with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and other government officials to discuss economic reforms, private-sector investment and job creation. On 3 September, Prime Minister Abiy oversaw the signing of a framework agreement between the National Bank of Ethiopia and the IFC to establish the country’s first mortgage refinance company. The proposed institution is expected to be capitalised at 100 billion birr, with the IFC contributing at least 200 million US dollars, supporting the government’s ambition to deliver 1.5 million homes over the next five years. The IFC chief said expanding housing would also require greater participation from private developers and investment in skills and construction capacity.

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2026 (ENA) —The 70th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), bringing together representatives of 181 member states, including Ethiopia, is underway in Vienna, with member states discussing nuclear safety and security, technology applications and the peaceful uses of nuclear science. The annual General Conference serves as the IAEA’s principal policymaking forum, where representatives of member states review the Agency’s activities, consider key issues in the nuclear field and set priorities for its work. Since the IAEA was founded in 1957, the conference has provided a global platform for advancing the peaceful applications of nuclear technology across areas ranging from energy production and cancer care to food security, water management, nuclear safety and security, and safeguards. Decisions adopted during the conference help shape the Agency’s programme of work for the year ahead, ensuring that its activities respond to emerging global needs and development priorities.   Opening the conference, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi highlighted the Agency’s achievements over the past year and their positive impacts, underscoring the growing role of nuclear science and technology in addressing development and humanitarian challenges. The conference also features a scientific forum focused on expanding access to cancer treatment services, as well as side events and exhibitions highlighting advances and practical applications of nuclear science and technology. Delegates are further deliberating on measures to strengthen nuclear safety and security and expand the peaceful application of nuclear technology.   The agenda includes consideration of the IAEA’s 2025 Annual Report, an update to the Agency’s 2027 budget, financial reports and the election of members to the IAEA Board of Governors. Representing Ethiopia at the high-level conference are Ambassador Haileselassie Subba, Deputy Permanent Representative Permanent Mission Geneva and Second Secretary Betelhem Mekonnen, who are leading the Ethiopian delegation. The 70th General Conference comes as countries continue to explore how nuclear science and technology can contribute to global priorities, including energy, health, food security, environmental management and sustainable development.

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia's economy, driven by the expansion of agriculture and manufacturing, development of natural resources as well as tourism and its large youthful population, can sustain the annual economic growth of between 9 and 11 percent over the coming decades, CBE's Capital Investment Bank CEO Zemedeneh Negatu said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the CEO noted that the country's prospects should be viewed in light of its ongoing economic transformation and the significant resources that remain available for development. According to him, Ethiopia has several potential engines of sustained growth, including the transition of agriculture from subsistence farming to mechanized and commercial production. Agriculture remains a major contributor to the Ethiopian economy and the recent gains in wheat production have demonstrated the country's capacity to improve productivity and reduce dependence on imports. Zemedeneh said continued modernization of the sector could position Ethiopia among Africa's major food producers and exporters. Manufacturing is the other sector with considerable potential, particularly labor-intensive industries such as textiles, clothing, footwear and electronics, he added. The CEO said he believes Ethiopia's large and trainable workforce provides an important advantage in developing these industries, stressing the need to gradually move toward higher-value manufacturing and technology-based production. He noted that the development experiences of China, South Korea, Japan, Singapore and Vietnam could benefit Ethiopia. China's decades of sustained economic expansion, in particular, demonstrate that countries starting from relatively low economic bases can achieve rapid transformation through consistent investment and policy focus, Zemedeneh observed. The CEO also identified natural resources as a major source of future growth, noting that Ethiopia's mineral and energy resources remain relatively underexplored. “The country's potential in gold, lithium, tantalum and natural gas could create additional economic opportunities as exploration and development activities expand, particularly amid growing global demand for minerals used in modern technologies and electric vehicles.” Tourism is another sector that could contribute significantly to growth, according to Zemedeneh. Ethiopian Airlines' extensive international network and large number of transit passengers provide Ethiopia with an opportunity to attract more visitors to stay and explore the country's tourism destinations. Beyond natural resources and productive sectors, the CEO emphasized that Ethiopia's greatest long-term asset is its people. Sustained investment in education, skills development and innovation will be critical to preparing the country's youthful workforce for an increasingly technology-and artificial intelligence-driven global economy, he stated. In addition, Zemedeneh stressed that foreign direct investment remains important to Ethiopia's growth and the country must continue improving its competitiveness as nations around the world compete for capital, expertise and technology. Sustaining high growth would require continued reforms, focused implementation and the ability to address existing challenges. “All data points indicate that coming together, we can sustain double digits for 10, 15, 20, 30 years—or like China, 40 years. I think it's doable; but it needs a lot of work.” Yet, the CEO expressed confidence that Ethiopia's challenges are manageable and that the country's economic potential provides a strong basis for optimism. He cited the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam and the ongoing Bishoftu International Airport project as examples of Ethiopia's growing capacity to undertake large-scale and transformative infrastructure projects. The changes in the capital also reflect Ethiopia's broader capacity to implement ambitious development projects, according to Zemedeneh. Overall, the CEO underscored that the country has a real opportunity to sustain high economic growth if it continues to develop its productive sectors, invest in human capital, attract investment and effectively utilize its natural resources.

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2026 (ENA) —Egypt must align its Nile strategy with the realities of the 21st century, former Ethiopia's House of People's Representatives Speaker Teshome Toga said, stressing that outdated colonial-era notions can no longer guide the management of a shared transboundary river. In his analytical article, the former Speaker noted that the Nile Basin has been transformed by population growth, climate change, rising energy demand, food insecurity and rapid economic development, requiring a new framework based on cooperation, equity and mutual respect. Therefore, “the Nile must be managed according to the realities of the twenty-first century, not the logic of a bygone colonial era”. The Blue Nile Abay River, which originates in the Ethiopian highlands, contributes about 86 percent of the Nile’s annual flow, underscoring Ethiopia’s central role in the basin. The former Speaker stressed that Egypt’s dependence on the Nile does not give it monopoly over the river, saying a shared international watercourse must be governed through fairness and mutual recognition of the rights of all riparian states. “Dependence on the Nile does not confer monopoly over a shared river,” he wrote. Teshome criticized the continued reliance on colonial-era and exclusionary agreements, including the 1959 bilateral arrangement between Egypt and Sudan, which allocated the river’s waters without the participation of upstream countries, including Ethiopia. Such arrangements cannot provide a sustainable basis for managing a shared resource in the modern era, he added. Teshome described the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a clear manifestation of Ethiopia’s new reality and its growing ability to mobilize domestic resources for national development. He noted that the dam reflects Ethiopia’s resolve to expand electricity access, reduce poverty and accelerate economic transformation through self-reliance. “The GERD has demonstrated Ethiopia’s resolve, self-reliance, and ability to build for its future with its own resources.” Teshome stated that attempts to block Ethiopia’s development projects through external financing restrictions, political pressure or vetoes would not succeed. “No veto, no pressure, and no external interference can stop Ethiopia’s march toward development.” Moreover, the former Speaker and diplomat rejected military confrontation as a solution to Nile disputes, saying no military strategy can ensure sustainable water security. “Military confrontation cannot resolve the Nile question; only dialogue can,” he underscored. He further underlined Ethiopia’s long-standing commitment to diplomacy and cooperation, citing the 2015 Declaration of Principles on the GERD as an important example of peaceful engagement with Egypt and Sudan. The former Speaker called for genuine negotiations founded on sovereign equality, equitable and reasonable utilization, mutual respect, scientific cooperation and the peaceful settlement of disputes. “The Nile should be a bridge of cooperation, not a permanent source of tension,” he pointed out. No country should monopolize a shared river and no nation should be denied its legitimate right to development, he added. In conclusion, Teshome noted that the future of the Nile must be built on shared responsibility, shared prosperity and a political understanding that reflects the realities of the 21st century.

Addis Ababa, September 14, 2026 (ENA) —The 74th Extraordinary Session of the IGAD Council of Ministers held in Djibouti today has reviewed key regional developments and challenges affecting the region. Foreign Affairs State Minister Hadera Abera participated in the Extraordinary Session which reviewed key developments and challenges affecting the IGAD region. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the discussions focused on regional peace and security, the evolving situation in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandab as well as developments in Sudan, Somalia and South Sudan, among other.   Particular attention was given to the role IGAD can play in facilitating dialogue, promoting political solutions and supporting regional peace and stability. The session also considered the current financial and institutional situation of IGAD, underscoring the need to strengthen the organization’s institutional capacity, financial sustainability and operational effectiveness to enable it to more effectively discharge its mandate and respond to emerging regional challenges.

Abay/Nile Waters at the Intersection of Ethiopia- Egypt Relations   Sept. 15, 2026 (ENA) By Ambassador Teshome Toga Chanaka (PHD) Background The Nile is one of the world’s great transboundary river systems, shared by eleven riparian countries. Egypt and Sudan are the principal downstream states with virtually no contribution to the flow of the Nile. The Nile’s waters originate in the upstream countries, Ethiopia being the source of the Blue Nile. The Blue Nile, originating in the Ethiopian highlands, contributes 86% share of the Nile’s annual flow. For centuries, the utilization of Nile waters has been a source of tension between upstream and downstream countries. Historical circumstances, colonial legacies and competing interpretations of rights over the river have contributed to a pattern of mistrust that has often prevented the emergence of a genuinely cooperative basin-wide framework. Egypt, in particular, has developed and maintained an entrenched position concerning the allocation and utilization of the Nile waters. Its continued emphasis on what it describes as “historical rights” and on agreements concluded during periods when most upstream countries were not parties to the negotiations has made it difficult to establish a framework based on contemporary principles of international water law, particularly equitable and reasonable utilization and the obligation to cooperate. The 1959 Agreement between Egypt and Sudan is a particularly important example. The agreement allocated the entire estimated Nile flow between the two downstream countries without the participation of the other riparian states, including Ethiopia, the source of the Blue Nile. It is difficult to envisage how such an arrangement could provide a sustainable basis for managing a shared trans boundary resource in the twenty-first century. The fundamental issue, therefore, is not whether Egypt has legitimate interests in the Nile. It unquestionably does. The question is whether those interests can legitimately be pursued at the expense of the equally legitimate interests of the other riparian states. Why Egypt Needs a New Nile Strategy for the 21st Century? Egypt’s heavy dependence on the Nile is a reality that Ethiopia fully understands. But dependence does not confer a monopoly over a shared international watercourse. The challenge is to reconcile Egypt’s legitimate water-security concerns with the development aspirations and rights of the upstream countries. The twenty-first century has transformed the political, economic and technological circumstances of the Nile Basin. Population growth, climate change, food insecurity, energy demands, economic development and changing patterns of regional cooperation have fundamentally altered the context in which Nile waters must be managed. It is therefore neither realistic nor sustainable to approach the Nile exclusively through the prism of historical allocations. The river must increasingly be viewed as a shared resource whose sustainable management requires cooperation, dialogue, scientific evidence and equitable utilization. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) represents perhaps the clearest manifestation of this changing reality. The GERD has demonstrated Ethiopia’s growing capacity to mobilize domestic resources and undertake major infrastructure projects in pursuit of its national development objectives. Whatever one’s position on the dam, it has fundamentally changed the political and strategic context of the Nile question.   Consequently, statements that Ethiopia should not be permitted to construct another dam on the Blue Nile cannot provide a serious basis for future policy. Ethiopia’s development needs cannot be indefinitely subordinated to another country’s perception of its own water security. Nor is it realistic to assume that Ethiopia’s development projects on the Nile can be prevented indefinitely through efforts to restrict international financing. The experience of the GERD demonstrated Ethiopia’s ability to mobilize domestic resources when external financing was unavailable. This is an important lesson for all concerned: the future of the Nile cannot be determined through vetoes, pressure or attempts to prevent development. It must be shaped through cooperation. The same applies to the broader political relationship between Ethiopia and Egypt. Attempts to address differences over the Nile through political pressure, geopolitical rivalry or support for destabilizing forces cannot provide a sustainable solution. Such approaches risk deepening mistrust and making an eventual settlement more difficult. Military confrontation is equally untenable. No military strategy can produce sustainable water security. The Nile will continue to flow across borders long after political crises have passed. The only durable answer is therefore a political and diplomatic framework that recognizes the legitimate interests of all riparian countries. Other major transboundary river systems demonstrate that shared rivers need not inevitably become sources of military confrontation. China, for example, shares numerous transboundary rivers with neighboring countries and has developed a variety of mechanisms for managing shared water interests. The experiences of other river basins demonstrate that differences can be managed through dialogue, cooperation and negotiated arrangements. The Comprehensive Framework Agreement and the Changing Regional Context The effort by the Nile Basin riparian states to establish a basin-wide legal framework has been underway for many years. The negotiation of the Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA) was intended to provide a more inclusive and equitable basis for cooperation among the Nile Basin countries. The CFA’s evolution reflects an important reality: upstream countries increasingly expect their interests and development needs to be recognized within the governance of the Nile Basin. The issue is therefore larger than the GERD or the relationship between Egypt and Ethiopia. It concerns the fundamental question of how an international river basin should be governed in an era of population growth, climate change, energy transition and rapid economic transformation.   A sustainable Nile framework cannot be built around arrangements negotiated without the participation of all concerned states. Nor can the interests of downstream countries simply be ignored. The answer lies in developing an inclusive framework that accommodates the legitimate concerns of downstream states while recognizing the development rights of upstream countries. Ethiopia’s Cooperative Approach Should Not Be Mistaken for Weakness Since the political transition of 1991, Ethiopia has repeatedly expressed its preference for dialogue and cooperation in addressing the Nile question. The 1993 memorandum of understanding reached during the visit of Ethiopia’s Transitional Government leadership to Cairo and the subsequent 2015 Declaration of Principles on the GERD involving Ethiopia, Egypt and Sudan were important demonstrations of Ethiopia’s willingness to engage diplomatically and seek mutually beneficial solutions. The Declaration of Principles was particularly significant because it established a set of principles intended to guide the three countries in addressing issues related to the GERD, including cooperation, equitable and reasonable utilization, the obligation not to cause significant harm, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. These initiatives demonstrate that Ethiopia does not seek confrontation with Egypt. Indeed, Ethiopia has repeatedly made clear that it has no intention in harming the Egyptian people. This was amply stated by PM Abiy Ahmed during his offical visit to Cairo. Ethiopians and Egyptians share deep historical, cultural and human bonds. If the two countries estblish cooperation and working together, the benefits will transcend the borders of the two countries. The outcome will have broader regional impact. The Nile should be a bridge connecting the peoples of the two countries rather than a permanent source of antagonism between them. But cooperation is necessarily reciprocal. Ethiopia’s willingness to negotiate should not be interpreted as an acceptance of arrangements that deny its legitimate development interests. Nor should restraint be mistaken for weakness. Ethiopia has legitimate interests in using its natural resources to reduce poverty, expand access to electricity, develop agriculture and transform its economy. At the same time, Ethiopia has an interest in ensuring that its utilization of the Nile is undertaken responsibly and without significant harm to downstream populations. This is precisely why a cooperative framework is possible. The Way Forward: From Confrontation to Cooperation The Nile question has reached a point where old assumptions need to be reconsidered. Egypt’s water-security concerns are legitimate. Ethiopia’s development aspirations are equally legitimate. Sudan also has legitimate interests that must be taken into account. The challenge is to create a framework in which these interests are not viewed as mutually exclusive. The choice before Egypt and Ethiopia should therefore not be framed as a choice between Egyptian water security and Ethiopian development. The real choice is between competition and cooperation; confrontation and dialogue; unilateralism and shared governance. There is considerable room for cooperation. The two countries could strengthen scientific and technical cooperation on hydrology, climate change, drought and flood management, sedimentation, agricultural productivity, electricity trade and water-use efficiency. Ethiopia’s potential for hydropower development and Egypt’s expertise in water management could, for example, become complementary rather than competing assets. A broader economic relationship could also transform the politics of the Nile. Energy trade, investment, infrastructure connectivity, agriculture and regional economic integration could create incentives for both countries to regard the river as an opportunity for mutual benefit rather than a zero-sum contest. The way forward is therefore not through threats, pressure or attempts to prevent Ethiopia from developing its water resources. Nor is it through unilateral actions that disregard the legitimate concerns of downstream countries. The answer is a return to the negotiating table with a different mindset. Egypt needs to recognize that the Nile Basin of the twenty-first century is fundamentally different from the Nile Basin of the nineteenth or twentieth century. Ethiopia, for its part, should continue to demonstrate that its development of the Nile can coexist with the legitimate water-security interests of downstream countries. The central principle should be simple: no country should seek to monopolize a shared river, and no country should be denied its legitimate right to development. The Nile can become either a permanent fault line between Egypt and Ethiopia or an unprecedented opportunity for cooperation between two ancient civilizations. The choice is ultimately political.   What is required now is not another round of confrontation, but a new political understanding—one founded on sovereign equality, equitable and reasonable utilization, mutual respect, scientific cooperation and shared prosperity. The Nile does not belong to one country. It is a shared resource, and its future must be built on shared responsibility. …………………… * The author is former Ethiopian Ambassador to Egypt. The views only represent that of the author alone. Ambassador Teshome Toga Chanaka is a senior Ethiopian politician and veteran diplomat. He served as Speaker of the House of Peoples' Representatives, Minister of Youth, Sports, and Culture, and Commissioner of the National Rehabilitation Commission. In his diplomatic career, he served as Ambassador to the European Union, China, Kenya, and Ghana.

Addis Ababa, September 14, 2026 (ENA) —Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Tibor Nagy has praised Ethiopian Airlines as an institution that has maintained strategic discipline, technical standards and operational professionalism over decades. Speaking about the airline’s rise and its distinctive position on the continent, Nagy said its success was not simply the result of being state-owned, but of functioning with the discipline and independence of a private corporation. He told POA that the airline’s investment in technical capacity and training as key to its reputation. “So Ethiopian Airlines has thought strategically. They have maintained their standards. They have very high technical capabilities. European airlines send their pilots to Addis Ababa to train in their simulators. Their mechanics are among the best in the world. So I always tell people, you know, if I ever have a choice and if Ethiopian Airlines is flying, I will always take Ethiopian Airlines. I don’t care what other airline is flying.”   Nagy said the airline’s professionalism was particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic, when international air travel was severely disrupted. He recalled that, while serving as Washington’s top Africa official, the United States relied on Ethiopian Airlines to move American citizens across the continent because the carrier continued operating when many others had stopped flying. “I was Assistant Secretary of State for Africa during COVID, and we depended on renting Ethiopian Airlines aircraft to go around Africa to pick up American citizens, because they were reliable. They were flying when other airlines were not flying.” Nagy also welcomed Ethiopia’s plans for a new airport at Bishoftu, describing the project as both visionary and necessary as Addis Ababa continues to expand its role as a major African aviation and economic hub. He said the capital’s high altitude places operational limitations on some aircraft, making an additional aviation hub strategically important.   “But the Bishoftu airport, again, that is pioneering. It is visionary. And I believe it is absolutely needed. Addis Ababa is a huge crossroads of Africa. You have the African Union there, you have a huge population, you have industrialisation, you have investments. But Addis has limitations because of the high altitude. You can’t take all kinds of aircraft there. There are certain aircraft that cannot land and take off there. So Bishoftu makes sense.” Nagy’s assessment places Ethiopian Airlines within a broader story of institutional resilience and long-term investment, as Ethiopia seeks to reinforce its position as a continental aviation hub. He said the combination of technical expertise, strategic management and infrastructure development could further strengthen that role as the country’s economy and international connections continue to grow.   Ethiopian Airlines Group (Ethiopian) is a true African success story, transforming a visionary dream into a globally renowned reality for nearly eight decades. Operating flights to more than 160 domestic and international passenger, and cargo destinations across five continents, Ethiopian bridges the gaps between Africa and the world.

Addis Ababa, September 14, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed participated in the second and final day of the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi on September 13, as leaders of the bloc member countries concluded two days of high-level deliberations with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration. Held under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” the summit brought together heads of state and government from BRICS member and partner countries, alongside leaders of international institutions, to discuss major global and regional issues and strengthen cooperation across the Global South. The summit concluded with the adoption of the BRICS New Delhi Declaration, containing 140 consensus positions that set out the bloc’s collective positions on a wide range of issues.   The New Delhi Declaration underscores the need to reform global governance institutions, strengthen international and regional peace and security, promote sustainable economic growth, and foster greater people-to-people exchanges. According to a social media post by the Office of the Prime Minister, the declaration also reaffirmed strong BRICS support for Ethiopia’s ongoing accession process to the World Trade Organization (WTO), reinforcing the country’s efforts to deepen its integration into the global trading system. The BRICS leaders further expressed strong support for Ethiopia’s candidature as the sole candidate endorsed by the African Union for an additional seat on the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council. The bloc also jointly backed Ethiopia’s preparations to host the 32nd United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP32), scheduled to take place in Addis Ababa in 2027, highlighting Ethiopia’s growing role in advancing global climate and development priorities.   Beyond the multilateral outcomes, Prime Minister Abiy held a series of bilateral meetings with leaders of BRICS member and partner countries on the sidelines of the summit. The discussions focused on expanding cooperation in key areas, including trade, investment, defense, technology and digitalization, with an emphasis on strengthening mutually beneficial partnerships. The Prime Minister had earlier attended the opening session of the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit on September 12 and joined other leaders at a gala dinner following the first day’s proceedings, it was learned. At the conclusion of the two-day summit, BRICS leaders approved China as the host of the 19th BRICS Summit, marking the next stage in the bloc’s expanding cooperation.   Prime Minister Abiy has since returned to Addis Ababa following his participation in the summit, where Ethiopia’s diplomatic engagement highlighted its growing role in BRICS and its broader pursuit of economic, technological and strategic partnerships.

Addis Ababa, September 14, 2026 (ENA) — The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has generated 52 percent of Ethiopia’s electricity export revenue, helping push the country’s power export earnings beyond half a billion U.S. dollars, according to Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP). In an exclusive interview with the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), EEP Chief Executive Officer Ashebir Balcha said Ethiopia continues to supply clean, renewable, and competitively priced electricity to neighboring countries through the Eastern Africa Power Pool. He noted that Ethiopia currently exports electricity to Kenya, Djibouti, Sudan, and, more recently, Tanzania, strengthening energy cooperation and regional integration across the Horn of Africa and beyond. According to Ashebir, GERD alone accounts for 52 percent of total electricity exports, making it a key driver of both national revenue and regional power connectivity. He further stated that domestic electricity revenue has exceeded 124 billion birr, describing the achievement as evidence of GERD’s broader economic impact. “The dam is far more than an infrastructure project,” Ashebir said. “It is a transformative milestone that has effectively doubled the country’s power generation capacity and delivered a major boost to the national economy.” He added that GERD has significantly improved Ethiopian Electric Power’s financial position during the concluded fiscal year, turning the enterprise from a debt burden into a profitable institution and generating record revenue. Beyond electricity generation, the dam also plays an important role in regulating river flow, ensuring a more stable and predictable water supply downstream to Sudan and Egypt, he said. To mark these achievements, Ethiopian Electric Power has designated September 9/ Pagumen 4 on Ethiopian Calendar, the anniversary of GERD’s inauguration, as its annual Excellence Day. On the occasion, the utility recognized outstanding employees, teams, and project operators for their innovation, dedication, and contribution to the year’s strong performance. Looking ahead to the holiday season, EEP said it is working closely with the Ethiopian Electric Utility to carry out joint line inspections, maintain operational readiness, and ensure uninterrupted power supply for households and industries nationwide. Ashebir also extended New Year wishes to the Ethiopian people, expressing hope for a prosperous and joyful year ahead. He further described GERD as a “Second Adwa,” saying it symbolizes the perseverance, unity, and determination of Ethiopians. Adwa remains a powerful symbol of Ethiopian pride, unity, and resistance, inspiring generations as a historic victory that demonstrated the strength of a nation standing together against colonial powers. That victory helped Ethiopia remain the only African nation to defeat colonial invasion, inspiring the entire continent and illuminating the path to freedom.

By Staff Writer Sept. 13, 2026 (ENA) Ethiopia entered the 2019 Ethiopian calendar year with an unusually broad national agenda—intensified diplomacy, investment promotion, economic transformation, digital innovation, reconciliation and a renewed focus on strategic maritime interests. From September 6 to 12, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s participation in the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi dominated Ethiopia’s international agenda. His engagements with leaders of major emerging economies highlighted Addis Ababa’s determination to turn diplomacy into opportunities for investment, technology, trade and development cooperation. At home, the government entered the new year emphasizing economic transformation, logistics development, digitalization, climate resilience and reconciliation. The release of more than 600 federal prisoners added a strong political and reconciliation dimension to the New Year, while renewed discussion over Ethiopia’s pursuit of reliable Red Sea access placed the country’s economic and security interests at the centre of a wider regional debate. Taken together, the week’s developments point to an emerging national strategy: strengthen domestic productive capacity, widen international partnerships, attract capital and technology, deepen regional influence and pursue strategic interests while maintaining a commitment to cooperation and peaceful engagement. A New Year of Renewal and Reflection   Ethiopia celebrated Enkutatash 2019 on September 11, following the five-day Pagume period that bridges the old and new years. The occasion carried both cultural and political significance. Government leaders used the New Year to emphasize peace, national unity, development and continued reform. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and First Lady Zinash Tayachew shared a New Year meal with members of the local community, underscoring the traditional values of solidarity and togetherness. Enkutatash is among Ethiopia’s most distinctive cultural celebrations. Observed on Meskerem 1, it marks the beginning of a new year in the Ethiopian calendar and coincides with the transition from the rainy season to clearer skies, green landscapes and the appearance of the yellow Adey Abeba flowers. But Enkutatash represents more than the turning of a calendar page. It is a season of renewal, hope, reconciliation and togetherness. Families gather, children visit relatives and friends, traditional foods are prepared and people exchange wishes for peace, health and prosperity. Young girls traditionally perform Hoya Hoye, moving from house to house and receiving gifts in return. Across Ethiopia’s diverse communities, the New Year is celebrated through different traditions, music, dance, clothing and cuisine, while retaining a shared spirit of renewal. Churches and religious communities also hold special services, prayers and celebrations. In Addis Ababa and other cities, the celebration is increasingly accompanied by public cultural programmes, concerts, exhibitions and community events. Diplomatic representatives, including Israeli Ambassador to Ethiopia Avraham Neguise and Cameroon’s Ambassador Churchill Ewumbue Monono, also extended New Year greetings to Ethiopians. For many Ethiopians, Enkutatash is therefore both celebration and reflection—a moment to leave behind the difficulties of the previous year, strengthen relationships and enter the new one with renewed determination. BRICS Puts Ethiopia’s Global South Strategy in Focus   The most prominent diplomatic development of the week was Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s participation in the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi. For Ethiopia, the summit was more than a high-level diplomatic gathering. It offered a platform to deepen engagement with major emerging economies while advancing Addis Ababa’s broader effort to strengthen Africa’s role within an evolving global order. Prime Minister Abiy called for stronger BRICS cooperation with Africa, particularly in minerals, renewable energy and industrial development. He stressed the importance of enabling African countries to move beyond exporting raw materials and capture greater value from their resources. Artificial intelligence also featured prominently in Ethiopia’s message. PM Abiy urged BRICS countries to ensure that AI becomes a tool for Africa’s development rather than another source of technological inequality. Debt sustainability and climate finance were also highlighted, linking the priorities of emerging economies with the development challenges confronting Africa. Ethiopia further proposed a BRICS coordination track toward COP32, which Addis Ababa is scheduled to host in 2027. The proposal reflects Ethiopia’s effort to connect economic diplomacy, climate action and the development priorities of the Global South. The strategic significance for Ethiopia is considerable. BRICS engagement can potentially expand access to markets, investment, technology and alternative sources of development finance while strengthening relations with some of the world’s fastest-growing economies. In this sense, Ethiopia’s BRICS diplomacy is increasingly economic as well as political. Bilateral Diplomacy Moves Toward Trade, Technology and Investment The New Delhi summit also created space for a series of bilateral engagements. Prime Minister Abiy’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin focused on strengthening the Ethiopia-Russia strategic partnership across areas including defence and security, trade, investment, education, technology, culture, climate and development.   His talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi explored opportunities to further strengthen Ethiopia-India relations, particularly in investment, defence and emerging sectors. With Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, discussions focused on investment, tourism, renewable energy and industrial development. Abiy also held discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Red Sea security and regional stability, while meeting Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vietnamese Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng. The breadth of these engagements illustrates a broader shift in Ethiopia’s foreign economic policy: diplomatic relationships are increasingly being viewed as platforms for investment, trade, technology transfer, industrial cooperation and development partnerships. Investment Diplomacy Takes Centre Stage Investment promotion remained another defining feature of the week. President Taye Atske Selassie led a high-level Ethiopian delegation to Dubai for the 15th Annual Investment Meeting, presenting Ethiopia’s investment opportunities and highlighting ongoing economic reforms. Clean energy and other strategic sectors were presented as areas of substantial potential for foreign investment. The engagement formed part of the government’s effort to increase private-sector participation in Ethiopia’s economic transformation. Ethiopia is also seeking stronger economic ties with Gulf countries. President Taye called for increased Qatari investment, reflecting Addis Ababa’s wider effort to attract capital into infrastructure, energy, manufacturing and other productive sectors. The message is increasingly clear: Ethiopia wants foreign investment not simply as a source of capital, but as a vehicle for expanding production, creating jobs, transferring technology and integrating the country more deeply into regional and global markets. Mojo Logistics Hub Strengthens the Trade Infrastructure   The inauguration of the expanded Mojo logistics centre marked another significant development in Ethiopia’s economic transformation. Located about 70 kilometres southeast of Addis Ababa, the facility covers approximately 60 hectares and is designed to increase freight-handling capacity, improve cargo movement and strengthen regional connectivity. Prime Minister Abiy described the project as an important step toward regional economic integration and the practical implementation of Ethiopia’s ambitions under the African Continental Free Trade Area. The significance of logistics extends beyond a single facility. For a landlocked economy heavily dependent on international trade, efficient logistics can reduce transportation costs, improve export competitiveness and connect Ethiopian producers more effectively with regional and international markets. It also complements Ethiopia’s broader maritime strategy: access to ports is only as useful as the inland systems that can move goods efficiently between production centres and maritime corridors. Growth Continues, but Transformation Must Reach Households Ethiopia entered 2019 with economic transformation remaining at the centre of the government’s agenda. Macroeconomic reform, private-sector development, manufacturing, agricultural commercialization, export growth and infrastructure expansion remain key priorities. The World Bank reported 9.2 percent economic growth for Ethiopia in fiscal year 2024/25, placing the country among Africa’s faster-growing economies. Yet strong headline growth does not automatically translate into broad-based prosperity. Low per-capita income, limited employment opportunities and pressure on household purchasing power remain significant challenges. The central question for the new year, therefore, is not simply whether Ethiopia can sustain growth, but whether growth can generate productive employment, strengthen household incomes and improve living standards. Reconciliation at the Start of a New Year Peace and reconciliation also featured prominently as Ethiopia entered 2019. More than 600 federal prisoners, including prominent figures, were released around the New Year. The move was presented as part of broader efforts to promote reconciliation and create conditions for political dialogue. Prime Minister Abiy urged those released to use the opportunity to begin the New Year in a spirit of peace and contribute to the outcomes of the national consultation process. The releases gave the New Year a powerful reconciliation message. At the same time, Ethiopia’s continuing security challenges demonstrate that reconciliation is not a single event but a longer national process. Turning political openings into sustainable peace remains one of the country’s most important—and difficult—tasks. From Paper to Digital Digital transformation is becoming increasingly central to Ethiopia’s development ambitions. In a message marking Pagume 5, described as “The Day of the Future,” Prime Minister Abiy said Ethiopia was moving “from paper to digital, from passive consumption to active innovation.” The ambition goes beyond expanding internet access. Ethiopia is seeking to develop domestic technological capacity, modernize public services and build an economy capable of producing technology and innovation. Artificial intelligence is emerging as an important part of that strategy. Officials from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development visited the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute as part of regional consultations on an IGAD AI framework and strategy. At the BRICS summit, Abiy linked AI directly to Africa’s development, arguing that technological advancement should contribute to economic transformation and digital sovereignty. For Ethiopia, AI has potential applications across agriculture, healthcare, education, finance, manufacturing and public administration. The challenge now is implementation: building the infrastructure, skills, institutions and locally relevant solutions required to translate ambitious digital policies into measurable economic and social gains. Green Growth and Climate Resilience   Climate resilience was another important theme of the week. An assessment by AlphaGeo ranked Addis Ababa second globally and first in Africa among major cities for climate resilience, using geospatial artificial intelligence to assess climate exposure and adaptation capacity. The assessment comes as Ethiopia continues to position renewable energy, environmental restoration, green infrastructure and climate adaptation as integral components of its development strategy. A Green Growth Investment Forum held during the week called for stronger private-sector participation in green investment, reflecting an effort to connect environmental priorities with economic opportunity. Ethiopia’s preparations to host COP32 in 2027 provide an additional international platform. Addis Ababa is seeking to use the conference to amplify Africa’s voice on climate finance while promoting renewable energy, green investment and climate-resilient development. The broader challenge will be to ensure that climate action supports economic transformation rather than competing with it. Red Sea Access: A Strategic Question Ethiopia Cannot Ignore Perhaps no issue carries a greater strategic regional dimension than Ethiopia’s pursuit of reliable and sovereign access to the Red Sea. For Ethiopia, the issue is increasingly connected to economic development, national security, trade and the country’s demographic trajectory. Education Minister and economist Professor Berhanu Nega argued that Ethiopia’s growing population and economic requirements make the question of sea access increasingly difficult to postpone. “You cannot have 130 million people sitting here without access to the sea at a time when sea access is very important for security as well as trade,” Berhanu said. At the same time, he stressed that Ethiopia should pursue its objective peacefully and in a way that benefits neighbouring countries. “It is better if we do this peacefully, and not only peacefully but for mutual benefit, so that all of us can benefit from this,” he said. Israeli Ambassador to Ethiopia Avraham Neguise also expressed support for Ethiopia’s pursuit of sea access, describing it as a matter with wider implications for Red Sea stability. “Empowering and strengthening Ethiopia and creating stability in the Red Sea is the interest of all, not only for Ethiopia,” he said, adding that Ethiopia’s return to the Red Sea would be positive.   He further warned that instability along the maritime corridor could have consequences far beyond the Horn of Africa and the Middle East, affecting international trade and the global economy. Other analysts have placed greater emphasis on negotiation and regional arrangements. Former US Ambassador to Ethiopia and George Washington University adjunct professor David Shinn has suggested that Ethiopia’s maritime aspirations could potentially form part of a broader diplomatic understanding involving Ethiopia, Egypt and Eritrea. These perspectives point to the central challenge facing Ethiopia’s maritime ambitions. For Addis Ababa, dependable sea access is increasingly viewed as an economic and strategic necessity. For its neighbours, however, any new maritime arrangement must be carefully managed to avoid aggravating existing regional rivalries. The issue will therefore require diplomacy as much as strategy. Red Sea Insecurity Raises the Stakes The security situation around the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb adds another layer of urgency. Bab el-Mandeb connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and serves as a critical maritime gateway between the Indian Ocean and the Suez Canal route. Continued insecurity can disrupt shipping, increase transportation and insurance costs and place additional pressure on already vulnerable global supply chains. For Ethiopia, which depends heavily on maritime trade, prolonged disruption can directly affect the cost and reliability of imports and exports. This makes the maritime question part of a much larger economic equation. Efficient inland logistics, diversified trade corridors and stable regional maritime arrangements are all essential to protecting Ethiopia’s economic interests. The Bigger Picture The first major week of Ethiopia’s 2019 Ethiopian calendar year brought together issues that may initially appear separate but are increasingly interconnected. BRICS diplomacy is about more than foreign policy—it is also about markets, investment, technology and development finance. Investment diplomacy is about more than attracting capital—it is about expanding productive capacity, creating jobs and strengthening Ethiopia’s position in global value chains. The Mojo logistics centre is about more than cargo—it is part of the infrastructure required to make Ethiopia more competitive in regional and international trade. Digital transformation and artificial intelligence are about more than technology—they are increasingly tied to productivity, public services, innovation and economic sovereignty. Green development is about more than environmental protection—it is becoming an important source of investment, energy security and international influence. And the Red Sea question is about more than geography—it sits at the intersection of trade, security, demography, regional diplomacy and Ethiopia’s long-term economic ambitions. The release of more than 600 prisoners, meanwhile, gave the beginning of the new year a powerful message of reconciliation, even as continuing security challenges underline the difficult road ahead. A New Year, A Larger Strategic Test As Ethiopia begins 2019, the country faces the challenge of connecting these different priorities into one coherent national strategy. Economic growth must translate into jobs and better living standards. Investment must strengthen productive sectors rather than simply increase capital inflows. Digitalization must deliver practical gains. Climate action must support development. Reconciliation must contribute to lasting peace. And diplomacy must protect Ethiopia’s economic and strategic interests while avoiding unnecessary regional confrontation. The coming year will therefore be measured not only by the scale of Ethiopia’s ambitions, but by its ability to convert those ambitions into results. Ethiopia is seeking a larger role in the global economy, deeper partnerships with emerging powers, greater technological capacity, stronger regional connectivity and a more secure place within the maritime geography of the Horn of Africa. The strategic test will be to pursue these objectives while balancing national interests with regional cooperation and stability. That balance may ultimately define Ethiopia’s journey through 2019—and shape how the country positions itself in an increasingly competitive and interconnected world.

Addis Ababa, September 13, 2026 (ENA) —The 18th BRICS Summit concluded today in New Delhi with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration. The Declaration reaffirms the bloc’s commitment to strengthening cooperation, promoting inclusive development and advancing a more representative and responsive international order. Held under India’s Presidency on September 12–13, 2026, the summit brought together BRICS leaders under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”   The New Delhi Declaration reaffirms the principles of mutual respect and understanding, sovereign equality, solidarity, democracy, openness, inclusiveness, collaboration and consensus, while setting out shared priorities and the future direction of BRICS cooperation. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed participated in the summit, where he called for stronger partnerships within BRICS and deeper engagement with Africa, emphasizing the bloc’s potential to connect capital, technology and markets with the resources and opportunities of its member and partner economies. “Across BRICS, we have capital, technology and markets. The opportunity is to bring them together, create more value, and ensure that value is generated where resources are found,” Prime Minister Abiy said in a message shared on his social media platforms.   He highlighted Ethiopia’s readiness to expand cooperation in minerals, renewable energy and manufacturing, while underscoring the importance of building resilience, accelerating economic transformation and strengthening climate action. The Prime Minister also called for stronger cooperation among BRICS members and greater engagement with Africa, highlighting the need to ensure that emerging global partnerships generate tangible opportunities for developing economies. On the sidelines of the summit, Prime Minister Abiy held bilateral meetings with several leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The engagements explored opportunities to deepen bilateral and economic cooperation, including investment, trade, technology, regional affairs and other areas of mutual interest.   Prime Minister Abiy also participated in a closed session of BRICS leaders on “Inclusive Global Governance and Strengthening Multilateralism,” where leaders addressed the need for a more inclusive, representative and responsive global governance system. Discussions focused on reform of the United Nations system, the international financial architecture and the multilateral trading system, reflecting growing calls from the Global South for greater representation and a stronger voice in international decision-making. The summit also brought together business leaders, investors and entrepreneurs, including representatives of the BRICS Business Council and BRICS Women’s Business Alliance, underscoring the growing role of the private sector in advancing trade, investment and economic cooperation. With the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration, the summit concluded with a renewed emphasis on resilience, innovation, economic cooperation and sustainable development, while reinforcing BRICS’ evolving role in shaping a more inclusive and multipolar global order.

Addis Ababa, September 13, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has advocated for stronger African representation, expanded access to finance and markets, and practical measures to enhance trade, investment, and regional connectivity. According to a social media statement from Office of the Prime Minister, PM Abiy delivered these remarks during the BRICS Plus Session held alongside the 18th BRICS Leaders' Summit in New Delhi. To support these goals, Prime Minister Abiy announced that Ethiopia stands ready to host a New Development Bank (NDB) office in Addis Ababa to help extend the institution's reach across the continent.   Established by BRICS founding members to fund infrastructure and sustainable development in emerging markets, the NDB is headquartered in Shanghai and currently operates its Africa Regional Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa. Linking Africa's development priorities directly to climate action, the Prime Minister also emphasized that full BRICS backing would allow the 32nd UN Climate Change Conference (COP32) to serve as an inclusive platform for sustainable growth.   Ethiopia is scheduled to host COP32 in Addis Ababa in 2027 and looks forward to welcoming BRICS members and partner countries to the summit.

Addis Ababa, September 13, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan have explored new avenues to deepen Ethiopia-Kazakhstan relations. on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, the two leaders held bilateral talks with a focus on digitalization, trade, investment and defense cooperation. “On the second morning of the BRICS Summit, I held a bilateral meeting with President Kassym Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan,” Prime Minister Abiy said in a post on his social media pages. Their discussions highlighted opportunities to expand cooperation in digitalization, business and investment, and defense, areas seen as important to strengthening the economic and strategic ties between the two countries. The meeting came as Prime Minister Abiy and a high-level Ethiopian delegation participated in the BRICS Summit under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” On the margins of the summit, the Prime Minister also held a series of bilateral meetings with leaders of BRICS member and partner countries, advancing discussions on areas of shared strategic interest. The engagements covered a broad range of issues, including investment, regional affairs, technology transfer, capacity building and skills development, tourism, mineral resources, and cooperation toward preparations for COP32. The growing diplomatic engagement reflects Ethiopia’s broader effort to strengthen ties with emerging economies, diversify its international partnerships and attract investment, technology and expertise to support its development priorities, it was learned.