Addis Ababa, November 16, 2025 (EMA)—Ethiopian ambassadors stationed in different countries emphasized that the government is intensifying its diplomatic engagement to raise international awareness about the country’s pursuit of secure and sustainable access to the sea. This issue, the ambassadors noted, has re-emerged as a major national priority amid shifting regional dynamics in the Horn of Africa. Rashid Mohammed, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe and representative to Mauritius, Zambia, and COMESA, stated that the country’s loss of sea access resulted from what he described as an “unjust political decision and conspiracy”. He argued that for a country with Ethiopia’s population size and economic potential, remaining permanently landlocked is neither sustainable nor aligned with international norms that support equitable access to global trade routes. Ambassador Rashid further emphasized that Ethiopia’s current pursuit of Red Sea access aims to foster mutual economic integration, shared prosperity, and regional stability in the Horn of Africa, where issues related to security, energy, and trade remain deeply interlinked. Similarly, Sied Muhumed, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Kuwait, echoed these views, stressing that sea access is a matter of “national survival” tied to fair utilization of regional resources. To this end, he explained, diplomatic missions are working to mobilize Ethiopians abroad to help raise international understanding of Ethiopia’s position through all available platforms, including traditional diplomacy, public diplomacy, and digital outreach. He further underscored that Ethiopia’s request is grounded in internationally recognized diplomatic principles, particularly those that encourage negotiated arrangements enabling countries to secure access to the sea. Ethiopia’s Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Biruk Mekonnen, likewise highlighted the influential role the Ethiopian diaspora has played in past national issues, most notably during international debates over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). In his view, similar levels of engagement are now essential to clearly communicate Ethiopia’s stance on sea access to global stakeholders, policymakers, and media outlets. Adding to this, Melaku Zeleke, a diplomat responsible for diaspora affairs at the Ethiopian Embassy in South Africa, stated that Ethiopia’s loss of access to the Red Sea stemmed from “illegal actions and misguided policies”. He urged the diaspora communities to replicate their previous advocacy efforts, emphasizing that Ethiopians abroad continue to play a vital role in shaping international narratives about the country.

Addis Ababa, November 16, 2025 (EMA)—Australia’s Ambassador to Ethiopia Peter Hunter expressed his country's commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s meaningful contributions to peace, security, and development in the Horn of Africa. In an exclusive interview with Pulse of Africa, Ambassador Hunter acknowledged the complex challenges facing the region and emphasized Australia’s readiness to work closely with Ethiopia in addressing them. Ambassador Hunter commended Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms, saying they are boosting investor confidence and creating new opportunities. He further stated Australia’s active involvement in the mining sector and expressed interest in expanding collaboration in tourism and agriculture. The ambassador described the recent transformation of Addis Ababa in infrastructure development as a clear reflection of Ethiopia’s broader progress. Highlighting the longstanding partnership between the two countries, the ambassador pointed out the people-to-people ties, scholarships, trade, and investment as key pillars of cooperation. He also praised the Ethiopian diaspora in Australia for their productive contributions to both the economy and society. He reiterated Australia’s strong backing for multilateral system reform, stressing that Africa’s voice must be more prominent in global decision-making platforms. He noted that strengthening the international system is essential for achieving lasting stability and inclusive development. Australia’s renewed support underscores a strengthening diplomatic relationship and reflects a shared vision to promote regional stability, sustainable development, and enhanced global representation for Africa. This endorsement signals a deepening of diplomatic ties between Australia and African nations, reinforcing collaborative efforts to address regional challenges while promoting sustainable development, security, and prosperity across the continent

Addis Ababa, November 16, 2025 (EMA)—Ethiopia is intensifying its diplomatic work to safeguard its citizens overseas while expanding efforts to engage the diaspora in national development, Ambassador Rashid Mohammed Abdulwahid said. Ambassador Rashid, Ethiopia’s Permanent Representative to COMESA and Ambassador to Zimbabwe and Zambia, underscored that the country is advancing two core priorities. In his exclusive interview with ENA, the ambassador emphasized that the government is committed to protecting its nationals abroad and strengthening the role of the Ethiopian diaspora as a driving force for growth. He explained that the embassy’s primary responsibility is to “protect Ethiopian citizens’ rights and freedoms,” with particular focus on vulnerable migrants in transit countries. He pointed out that human trafficking remains a serious threat and noted that the mission is working closely with authorities in Zimbabwe and Zambia to dismantle trafficking networks and provide support to undocumented nationals. The ambassador confirmed that more than 1,000 Ethiopians in difficult conditions have been repatriated since the start of the year through cooperation with host governments and humanitarian partners. He said efforts are underway to identify and prosecute individuals involved in trafficking. On development, Ambassador Rashid said expanding diaspora participation is a key diplomatic priority. He noted that investment facilitation initiatives and diaspora bonds are drawing stronger engagement. “The support from the diaspora is more than just financial; they also give moral support,” he added. Ambassador Rashid recalled the diaspora’s strong involvement during the building of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, saying communities in Zimbabwe and Zambia made meaningful contributions through bond purchases and donations. Looking ahead, he said Ethiopia aims to involve the diaspora in major public-private ventures valued at 30 billion dollars, tapping their expertise and global networks to reinforce national development. Ambassador Rashid highlighted the longstanding ties between Ethiopia, Zimbabwe, and Zambia, grounded in shared Pan-African values. Ethiopian Airlines continues to strengthen relations by maintaining regular flights that support trade and people-to-people connections, he noted, adding that the airline was recognized during the COVID-19 pandemic for keeping routes open to deliver essential medical supplies. He also pointed out that a new Joint Ministerial Commission between Ethiopia and Zimbabwe will enhance cooperation in technology, trade, and joint African advocacy, including calls for fair representation for the continent on global platforms such as the UN Security Council.

Addis Ababa, November 14, 2025 (ENA) - Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos urged the international community to disabuse the Eritrean government of its misguided policy towards Ethiopia and the region, and encourage Eritrea to be part of the vision of regional integration by taking small, tangible steps for a brighter future. Speaking at the Foreign Policy Forum on Developments in the Horn of Africa today, Foreign Minister Gedion said that rigid, uncompromising, outdated, and Manichean conceptions of sovereignty should give way to a more collaborative and integrated economic future from which both countries benefit. "We should not be captives to our history but masters of our future destiny. We cannot undo what has transpired so far; the pain and suffering generations have endured because we often opted for conflict than dialogue. But we can change what will happen today and tomorrow," he noted. Reaffirming Ethiopia's readiness for dialogue and for a different future, Gedion called on the international community to exert pressure and encourage the Eritrean government to desist from the provocations and violations against Ethiopia and engage in a good-faith dialogue. Enlightening the audience about the major underlying causes of the cycle of conflicts and tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea, especially in its contemporary form, the Minister cited the following points, among others.   "Just like those who erroneously assumed that a border dispute about the town of Badme was the cause of the conflict in the 1990s, some think that the Assab port is the bone of contention and the locus of the tension between the two countries today," Gideon said. He attributed the first factor as the desire of the Eritrean government to have an Eritrea that is sovereign and independent while enjoying the benefits and retaining the privileges to be derived from being part of the Ethiopian body politic. "Both official and social media personalities affiliated with the Eritrean state feel entitled to take positions, provide opinions and even actively engage in Ethiopia’s domestic political matters. But this goes beyond politics." The Foreign Minister further elaborated that "the Eritrean governing class believes that Eritreans have a stake in the Ethiopian economy. This sense of perverted entitlement, a belief that what is mine is mine and what is yours is ours, is a common thread that underlies our troubled history. Illicit, predatory, and exploitative trade practices were rampant before the 1998 conflict and echoes of the same tune can also be heard loud and clear even today." He described the other factor as "the tendency of the Eritrean leadership to present itself as an instrument for all forces having hostile intentions against Ethiopia. The instrumentalization of Eritrea by those who desire to destabilize Ethiopia and curtail its progress makes peaceful coexistence very difficult." According Gedion, it is not Eritrea’s national interests or just the predatory tendencies of the regime that are dictating a hostile policy against Ethiopia. "It is also the Eritrean leadership’s eagerness to act as a regional proxy for third parties that have made relations between the two countries very difficult. It could even be argued that this is a congenital defect of the Eritrean state." The other factor, the Minister pointed at is what can be called the Isayas doctrine. "The Isayas doctrine is not written down or expounded explicitly, but it has now become quite obvious as a result of consistent application for over the years. This doctrine assumes that Eritrea’s continued statehood as a sovereign country is contingent upon Ethiopia’s insecurity, fragmentation and instability. As such the doctrine predicates Eritrea’s security on Ethiopia’s insecurity." After explicating on the unjust and provocative moves and acts of the Eritrean government, FM Gideon concluded by saying that "we can change what will happen today and tomorrow. This is primarily the responsibility of the governments of both states. The Government of Ethiopia is ready for dialogue and for a different future. We call upon the international community to exert pressure and encourage the Eritrean government to desist from the provocations and violations against Ethiopia and engage in a good-faith dialogue."

Addis Ababa, November 14, 2025 (ENA) -- The Ethiopia National Dialogue Commission has emphasized the crucial role of political parties in the ongoing national dialogue process to sustainably resolve disputes and differences. Speaking at a consultative forum organized by the Commission in Adama, the Chief Commissioner Professor Mesfin Araya highlighted the importance of their participation in the ongoing national consultation process. The forum aims to strengthen the process and ensure the consultation is effective, he added. Professor Mesfin noted that the Commission has completed most of its agenda-gathering tasks and is now compiling and drafting agendas to make the process successful and move toward a national dialogue conference. He recalled that citizens, political parties, scholars, associations, institutions, prominent individuals, and members of the diaspora had all contributed to the agenda-gathering process.   The Commission is currently working to ensure that the national conference becomes a success. According to the Chief Commissioner, more than 80 percent of the political parties have been active in the process and are currently engaged as owners of the national dialogue. The involvement of political parties is essential for resolving differences in a lasting manner, he affirmed, noting the Adama conference is organized specifically to further strengthen their role in the stages ahead. Ethiopian Political Parties Joint Council Chairperson, Solomon Ayele, said the forum is an important step for achieving a peaceful political transition and addressing long-standing differences through dialogue.   He added that the Council has been working from the outset to ensure inclusive and national consultation and contribute its share in making the process run by a transparent and independent body. The Chairperson also affirmed that the national dialogue serves as a turning point for building trust and shaping a renewed political culture. According to him, the Council has helped its member parties to gain a vivid understanding of the objectives and procedures of the consultation, confirming that the agendas of all participating parties were collected, organized, and submitted to the Commission as a unified document.

Ethiopia's pursuit of access to the sea is fundamental to maintain its national interest and to regional security as a whole, a senior official of the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF), Kejela Merdasa , emphasized. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Kejela described Ethiopia’s loss of its sea access as a “legal injustice” and an “unjust act committed without any legitimate basis.” The Red Sea had long served as Ethiopia’s commerce and civilization hub for centuries as illustrated by historical archives and writers—widely known to generations, Kejela noted. He added that the Red Sea had served as a living testimony and expression to Ethiopia's historical prominence and natural boundary since the Kingdom of Aksumite, based on historical evidence. Kejela lamented the departures that followed in the aftermath of 1991, when Ethiopia was excluded from the Red Sea region, a situation he attributed to a political conspiracy. He argued that this development deprived Ethiopia of its vital maritime access, weakening its economic potential and vulnerability to regional geopolitical unpredictable circumstances. Kejela recalled the time when Ethiopians and Eritreans lived under one umbrella, describing their division was orchestrated by historical enemies just to advance their interest. So, the decision that led Ethiopia to lose its ownership of access to the Red Sea did not have legal basis and it is a crime committed against the country, he pointed out. The Assab Port and its surrounding area, which was a sovereign part of Ethiopia, is 500 kms from Asmara but near to Ethiopia, Kejela noted. However, it is regrettable to witness the Assab area without any infrastructure development activities, apart from the prior infrastructure previously built by Ethiopia, he stated. He stressed that Ethiopia's pursuit of access to the Red Sea is a fundamental aspect its national interest and a key pillar to regional security. Emphasizing the need to strengthen and advance a peaceful, mutually beneficial approach to secure access to the Sea based on the principle of give and take, he noted that such cooperation would contribute significantly to Ethiopia’s overall economic growth.

Addis Ababa, November 12, 2025 (ENA) – Ethiopia is committed to advancing regional cooperation and contributing meaningfully to lGAD's governance agenda, Minister Coordinator for Democracy System Building Center at the Office of the Prime Minister, Bikila Hurisa said. The Third IGAD Governance Forum convened in Addis Ababa today under the theme "The Role of National Democratic Institutions in Promoting Peace and Security". Opening the forum, Minister Coordinator for Democracy System Building Center at the Office of the Prime Minister, Bikila Hurisa said Ethiopia's is assertive--its historic reform journey over the past seven years stands as a practical demonstration in delivering in good governance. Bikila added: "Under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, our country has undertaken far-reaching reforms designed to revitalize institutions, expand democratic participation, achieve economic growth, and rebuild public trust." He also cited the government's commitment in opening political space, modernizing the civil service, reforming the justice and security sectors and combating corruption, among others. Within this broader context, Ethiopia has worked to transform previously fragmented political and administrative structures into coherent national systems capable of delivering good governance, he elaborated. For Bikila, the homegrown "Medemer" reform agenda, is also enabling democratic renewal, taking root at multiple layers of governance. The IGAD region is at a pivotal moment, he said, adding while the challenges we are facing are substantial, the opportunities for shared learning and collaborative action are equally significant. The third edition of the IGAD Governance Forum has already shown its importance in bringing together public officials, scholars, and practitioners to generate common understanding and develop solutions grounded in African realities. "By deepening cooperation among our democratic institutions, we strengthen not only our country but also our region's collective resilience,"Bikila said. As Ethiopia hosted this Forum, we reaffirm our commitment to advancing regional cooperation and contributing meaningfully to lGAD's governance agenda, he affirmed. Addressing the forum, IGAD Peace and Security Division Director Commander Abebe Muluneh for his part stressed the need to strengthen democratic institutions to ensure peace and security in the region.   Similarly, Ambassador Zerihun Abebe, Director-General of Africa Affairs at Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the critical role of ensuring good governance in realizing lasting peace and security in the IGAD region, noting Ethiopia's unwavering endeavors in ensuring peace and security in the region. The objectives of the IGAD Governance Forum include sharing experiences and promoting best practices in democracy, governance, elections, and human rights. It serves as a platform for discussing and improving governance principles, aligning with IGAD's broader goals of fostering peace, stability, and development in the region. The forum also aims to improve conflict prevention, resolution, and peacebuilding efforts, and to strengthen the ability of member states to address governance-related challenges, it was learned.

Addis Ababa, November 11, 2025 (ENA) – The Rassemblement Populaire pour le Progrès (RPP) has officially nominated Ismail Omar Guelleh, President of Djibouti, as its candidate for the April 2026 presidential election. The announcement was made during an extraordinary party congress at the Palais du Peuple, attended by supporters from across the country. President Guelleh accepted the nomination with gratitude, reaffirming his commitment to unity, stability, and development amid global challenges. His candidacy was also endorsed by allied parties within the Union for the Presidential Majority (UMP) and, notably, by the main opposition group, the Union for Democracy and Justice (UDJ), marking a broad consensus across Djibouti’s political spectrum.

Addis Ababa, November 11, 2025 (ENA) – The Quality Management System (QMS) Certification awarded to the Information Network Security Administration (INSA) will strengthen its efforts in preventing cyber attacks, House of People's Representatives (HPR) Foreign Relations and Peace Affair Standing Committee Chairperson Dima Noggo said. QMS Quality Management Systems Certification is designed for accrediting organizations that want to provide globally recognized certification of entities that wish to demonstrate their commitment to customer satisfaction and continuous improvement. The Information Network Security Administration (INSA) has been granted Quality Management Systems Certification, specifically the ISO 9001:2015 QMS Certification. Speaking at a program organized in connection with the certification, the Chairperson noted that institutions are expected to provide appropriate services by meeting essential standards in their respective fields. He emphasized that the recognition given to INSA will help the Administration strengthen and continue its activities to prevent cyber attacks. Dima further indicated that the institution must fulfill its national responsibility by further intensifying its current efforts to protect the country from all forms of cyber attacks. INSA Director-General, Tigist Hamid, said on her part that due to the ever-evolving nature of cyber security, the Administration is continuously working on making preparations that are relevant to the current times. The institution has been providing quality services in the sector and is making significant efforts to sustain this and become internationally competitive, she added. According to her, continuous work is being done to modernize the institution's systems and enhance customer satisfaction. Ethiopian Conformity Assessment Enterprise Director-General, Meaza Abera, affirmed that institutions meeting international standards help to safeguard national interests. She explained that her organization provides internationally recognized standards for institutions that fulfill the necessary requirements. The recognition won by INSA will enable it to further strengthen its ongoing work to prevent potential cyber attacks and damages to the country and institutions. Ethiopian Standards Institute Director-General, Meseret Bekele of the noted that meeting the quality standard will also assist Ethiopia in becoming globally competitive.  

Addis Ababa, November 10, 2025 (ENA) – Member of the House of People’s representatives (HPR) Buzuayehu Degefa told ENA that securing access to the Red Sea is not only a national concern, but a prerequisite for the collective prosperity of the Horn of Africa. While responding to questions posed by lawmakers, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed reaffirmed that the Red Sea issue is multifaceted, with legal, historical, geographical, and economic dimensions. Ethiopia’s approach will remain peaceful and grounded in dialogue, seeking solutions based on mutual understanding and regional cooperation rather than confrontation, the premier underlined. Buzuayehu further elaborated that the loss of sea access resulted from an arrangement lacking historical and legal legitimacy, a national issue that was never endorsed through proper institutional or legal frameworks. The current initiative enjoys broad domestic support and aligns with Ethiopia's ongoing economic transformation, increasingly gaining international recognition, reflecting its growing legitimacy and significance for Ethiopia’s long-term economic resilience. Access to the Red Sea, Buzuayehu stressed, would not only strengthen Ethiopia’s trade and logistics sectors but also enhance regional connectivity and cooperation. Citing the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as an example, he highlighted how Ethiopia’s development projects can serve as instruments of regional integration and shared growth. He also argued that resolving Ethiopia’s quest for Red Sea access would enable the country to play a more effective role in promoting peace, stability, and collective prosperity across the Horn of Africa.

Addis Ababa, November 9, 2025 (ENA) – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, President of the Prosperity Party (PP) stated that leadership commitment, coupled with working with innovation, speed, and quality, is essential for ensuring all-round prosperity. The intensive 11-day training program for high-level officials from federal, regional, zonal, and city administrations, held under the theme “Sectoral Advancement in the View of the Medemer State ,” concluded today. During his closing address, Prime Minister Abiy reiterated that leadership commitment, innovation, speed, and quality are prerequisites for achieving all-round prosperity. The Prime Minister elaborated on the concept of the ‘Medemer State’, emphasizing the importance of synergy and shared purpose in governance. The premier reiterated that leadership commitment—combined with innovation, speed, and quality is essential to achieving comprehensive national prosperity. The training covered the concept, direction, and destination goals of the Medemer/Synergy/ state. PM Abiy stated that leaders of the Party, which is guided by the Medemer principle, are expected to lead in a manner that achieves the country's vision and ensures all-round prosperity, by performing tasks with innovation, speed, and scale—going beyond simply addressing the comprehensive demands of the people. The Prime Minister outlined priority goals, stressing that efforts must be made to achieve 100 percent success in key agendas such as the "Faida" initiative, the "5 Million Coders" program, the ongoing Corridor Development works, Dine for Generation projects, Electoral Convenience, and Civil Service Reform. Abiy further explained that Medemer is a path that leads the current generation toward prosperity. He declared that the Medemer State is a trustee for the nation's prosperity and must realize quality and scale through innovation and speed. He also went on to elaborate that a transition to civilization must be brought about through multi-sectoral linkage. Noting that sovereignty of ideas is the foundation of prosperity, Prime Minister Abiy stressed that all Party leaders must strive in this manner to ensure all-round prosperity. He urged the high-level Party officials to incorporate the knowledge and experience gained from the 11 days of training, discussion, field visits, and the concluding session into their plans and implement them, thereby fulfilling their roles in the effort to realize the country's all-round prosperity.  

Addis Ababa, November 9, 2025 (ENA) — The Prosperity Party (PP) has concluded a 11-day leadership training program with closing directive by the Party’s President and Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed. According to Adem Farah, the Party’s Vice President and head of the PP Main Office, the program took place in Adama and Addis Ababa under the theme “Sectoral Advancement in the View of the Medemer State.” The course convened nearly 2,000 party leaders from across the country and addressed a broad range of topics aimed at strengthening policy implementation and cultivating a shared strategic vision. Adem said the training played a crucial role in promoting unity of purpose, enhancing practical capacity, and reaffirming the Prosperity Party’s role as a genuine force for national cohesion. He expressed the Party’s deep appreciation to coordinators, trainers, moderators, security agencies, the Oromia Regional State and its institutions, the Adama City Administration, the Addis Ababa City Administration, and all participating leaders. “Their contributions were instrumental to the program’s success—from planning and presentations to group discussions, experience-sharing sessions, project field visits, and the program’s conclusion,” he added.

Addis Ababa, November 8, 2025 (ENA) – Relations between Ethiopia and Japan have continued to deepen in many areas of cooperation, Japan's Ambassador Shibata Hironori said today. Speaking at Japan's Culture Day celebrated at the country's embassy in Addis Ababa, Japan's Ambassador to Ethiopia, Shibata Hironori, stated that the relation between the countries is a durable partnership rooted in mutual learning, people-to-people ties, and a forward-looking agenda that spans education, health, and culture. “This (relationship) represents one of Japan’s earliest diplomatic relationships in Africa. Our two nations have strengthened this bond through political, economic, cultural, and people-to-people exchanges,” he stated, citing the formal ties established in 1930 and intensified collaboration across sectors over the years. Ambassador Hironori traced the state of development cooperation noting that Japan’s partnership with Ethiopia has expanded substantially since 2000. He also highlighted financial and technical support in education, health, and agriculture, insisting that “our cooperation remains steadfast” even as global dynamics shift. The Ambassador pledged that Tokyo will deepen engagement to bolster Ethiopia’s prosperity and stability. According to him, some students who studied in Japan through JICA training program are now teaching at national universities such as Addis Ababa University, while many Japanese experts have been dispatched to almost all ministries and agencies in Ethiopia. Strengthened ties between Ethiopian regional universities and Japanese national universities are framed as practical pathways to research and mutual understanding and the programs are central to turning cultural appreciation into tangible development outcomes, he added. “The government and people of Japan have cooperated and endeavored for Ethiopia’s peace and prosperity. We will continue to make our utmost efforts to deepen Japan-Ethiopia relations,” Ambassador Hironori affirmed. On his part, Ahmed Mohammed, Chief Executive Officer at the Ministry of Culture and Sport stressed the importance of continued dedication to strengthening cultural and people-to-people bonds. He described Culture Day as both a tribute to shared histories and a catalyst for future collaboration. "This festival is a testament to the vibrant cultural exchange that continues to flourish between Ethiopia and Japan, two nations with rich histories, diverse traditions, and shared aspirations for mutual understanding," the CEO said. He also noted that the celebration serves as a bridge between the two countries, promoting friendship and collaboration that extends well beyond the festival itself, fostering long-term relationships and encouraging ongoing dialogue between Ethiopian and Japanese communities. According to him, the annual gathering honors the past while laying the groundwork for future connections, inspiring attendees to seek further interactions and greater understanding between these two vibrant cultures.

Addis Ababa, November 7, 2025 (ENA) – The Ethiopian Youth Entrepreneurs Association and the Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority of Saudi Arabia ((Monsha’at) have formalized a strategic partnership during the BIBAN 2025 Forum at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Convention Center. The partnership aims to foster meaningful collaboration between African, particularly Ethiopian and Saudi, entrepreneurs by promoting knowledge and technology transfer, co-founder and startup matchmaking, capacity building, and cross-border market access. It also seeks to accelerate youth-led innovation, promote interest-free financing models where applicable, and strengthen sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystems that empower young people to create jobs, drive inclusive growth, and contribute to the long-term development goals of both regions. According to a press release sent to ENA, Monsha’at has reaffirmed its commitment to enabling entrepreneurs to benefit from successful international experiences, enhancing cooperation with global entrepreneurial organizations, and build an integrated business environment that fosters growth and sustainability for SMEs. The initiative aligns with the broader objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, supporting the expansion of regional and global market opportunities for innovative startups, it was learned. The agreement was signed on behalf of Monsha’at by Abdulmohsen Salem H. Alsalem, General Manager of Partnerships, and on behalf of the Ethiopian Youth Entrepreneurs Association President Samiya Abdulkadir Godu.

Addis Ababa, November 7, 2025 (ENA) – Leading civil society representatives have voiced strong support for Ethiopia’s push for Red Sea access, arguing that it is a prerequisite for advancing regional cooperation, ensuring mutual benefit, and achieving enduring stability across the Horn of Africa. The importance of the matter was recently detailed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to the House of People’s Representatives. He articulated that the Red Sea issue transcends mere politics, encompassing dimensions of legality, history, geography, and economics. The premier also maintained that addressing this question is fundamental to Ethiopia’s sustained long-term growth and national stability. Kassahun Folo, President of the Confederation Ethiopian Trade Union, stated that the claim is legitimate and firmly rooted in international law. He noted that sea access is not just for Ethiopia's benefit, but would also aid "the countries of the region," and is necessary for Ethiopia to maintain its rapid economic expansion and satisfy its populace's development requirements. Yohannes Benti, President of the Ethiopian Teachers Association, on his part, broadened the scope beyond economics, calling sea access for Ethiopia is "a matter of justice and survival.” He also emphasized that sea access would be a catalyst for joint development, livelihood improvement, and stronger regional engagement. The civil society leaders appealed to neighboring states to engage with Ethiopia’s stance via diplomatic channels and consensus-building, proposing that cooperation on the Red Sea matter could ultimately underpin broader peace and shared prosperity throughout the region.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2025 (ENA) – Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, along with Minister of Finance, Ahmed Shide met with Maxim S. Oreshkin, Deputy Chief of Staff of the Presidential Executive Office of the Russian Federation, and Maxim Reshetnikov, Russia’s Minister of Economic Development, to discuss a wide range of strategic and economic issues. During the discussions, FM Gedion emphasized the long-standing bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Russia and expressed appreciation for Russia’s continued support to Ethiopia across various areas of cooperation. The Minister also called for Russian investment in agriculture, manufacturing, ICT, and mineral development and joint ventures in fertilizer production, metallurgy, and energy infrastructure, including nuclear and renewable energy projects. These engagements mark a renewed effort to elevate Ethiopia-Russia relations to a new level of strategic cooperation, focused on sustainable development, regional security, and mutual prosperity.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2025 (ENA) – Africa must not remain a bystander in the emerging multipolar world but should actively shape global affairs through unity and effective action, Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos emphasized. Delivering a keynote address at the Chatham House Conference held in Addis Ababa today to discuss on “Africa’s Rising Influence: Advancing Agency in Foreign Policy and Global Governance,” Foreign Affairs Minister Gedion underscored that Africa should actively shape global affairs through unity, reflection, and effective action. The minister underscored the importance of Africa telling its own stories and amplifying its voice in global discourse, stating that the question today is no longer whether Africa matters, but how the continent will choose to lead. For Ethiopia, he stated “the key lies in synergetic unity of purpose, institutional strength, and shared prosperity,” noting that the African Union, Regional Economic Communities, and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) already provide the necessary frameworks for collective progress. The conference, organized in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Amani Africa, brought together policymakers, scholars, and partners to examine how Africa can assert greater strategic influence on the global stage through cooperation, innovation, and agency.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m1dwjJQUnUs

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2025 (ENA) – Addis Ababa University (AAU) scholars have stated that the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has reshaped the geopolitical alignment of the region and stands as a testament to Ethiopia’s successful diplomatic endeavors. Professor Tesfaye Tafesse, a lecturer and researcher at the Center for Geopolitics and African Studies at AAU, and historian Professor Ayele Bekeri emphasized in an interview with ENA that every sovereign nation has the full right to utilize its natural resources. The scholars noted that Ethiopia is entitled to use its resources responsibly without causing harm to others and stressed the importance of further strengthening efforts that safeguard national interests. According to Professor Ayele Bekeri, Ethiopia’s development projects, including the GERD, play a pivotal role in protecting national interests and lifting citizens out of poverty. Professor Tesfaye Tafesse, for his part, recalled that Ethiopia had undertaken effective diplomatic measures to withstand external pressures during the construction of the Renaissance Dam. He stated that the united diplomatic actions of the government and citizens successfully transformed attitudes, leading some previously anti-Ethiopian actors to support Ethiopia’s position. Professor Ayele further emphasized that Ethiopia completed the GERD project in full compliance with international law. He noted that the country’s approach demonstrates its unwavering commitment to defending its national interests and sovereignty. He added that Egypt’s establishment of the “Red Sea Forum” reflects its realization that its long-standing ambition to control the Nile River has come to an end. Through this forum, Egypt is now attempting to limit Ethiopia’s engagement in Red Sea affairs. The scholars underscored the need to intensify diplomatic efforts to counter such maneuvers.

Addis Ababa, November 5, 2025 (ENA) – Ethiopia's national mega-projects are the cornerstone of its foreign policy and economic sovereignty, positioning the country for sustainable development and stronger regional economic integration and cooperation, according to political science scholar Prof. Brooke Hailu Beshah. Prof. Brooke told ENA that a nation’s survival is inseparable from its national interests, which for Ethiopia include safeguarding its borders, preserving territorial integrity, and ensuring the economic independence and welfare of its citizens. Prof. Brooke described the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a powerful symbol of national unity, cooperation, and triumph, marking the beginning of a new phase of transformative projects aimed at achieving food and economic sovereignty. These national undertakings not only advance Ethiopia’s core interests but also reinforce its foreign policy through enhanced regional collaboration, which is key to the nation's long-term stability and growth. Following the GERD’s inauguration, Prime Minister Abiy announced a series of ambitious national projects including a peaceful nuclear power plant, the Bishoftu International Airport, a major fertilizer factory, aAn oil refinery and extensive housing developments, he added. Prof. Brooke emphasized that while national interest has historically been defined in terms of political sovereignty, the modern focus is shifting toward economic self-reliance through the strategic use of domestic resources. He also described the new initiatives as crucial steps toward achieving food and energy sovereignty, asserting they will transform Ethiopia’s economy and deepen regional integration. Ethiopia’s foreign policy, he added, continues to prioritize regional partnerships, particularly in electric power generation and infrastructure development. Reaffirming Ethiopia’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution, Prof. Brooke noted that the impact of these projects extends beyond national borders, exemplifying the fertilizer factory, a joint venture with the Dangote Group, is expected to significantly boost agricultural productivity. Once these projects have completed, the facility will position Ethiopia as a continental leader in fertilizer production, with the capacity to supply neighboring countries such as Kenya, thereby reducing dependence on imports, he stated. Projects like the peaceful nuclear power plant, Bishoftu International Airport, fertilizer factory, and oil refinery are all transformative ventures will have the potential to redefine Ethiopia’s economic landscape, he said, adding that the planned gas factory will also help conserve foreign exchange, enabling Ethiopia to better meet its domestic and humanitarian needs through locally generated resources.