Addis Ababa, December 19, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia and the Netherlands have taken a major step to deepen their partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand cooperation across multiple areas. The agreement followed talks between Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and Dutch Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Aukje de Vries. Both ministers highlighted the countries’ longstanding diplomatic relations and emphasized the importance of further strengthening bilateral cooperation. The MoU establishes a framework for political consultations and aims to enhance collaboration on bilateral, regional, and multilateral issues, with a particular focus on scaling up trade and investment. Furthermore, the agreement reflects growing ties and constructive engagement between the two nations, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Addis Ababa, December 19, 2025 (ENA) —The UN General Assembly has elected former Iraqi President Barham Ahmed Salih as the next United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. He will begin a five-year term on January 1, 2026. Salih becomes the first leader from the Middle East to head the UN refugee agency in more than 75 years. UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the decision and thanked outgoing High Commissioner Filippo Grandi for his long service supporting refugees and displaced people worldwide. Salih brings decades of political and diplomatic experience, having played a key role in Iraq’s reconstruction after 2003 and working closely with international organizations such as the United Nations and the World Bank. Grandi praised Salih’s appointment, noting that his background and personal understanding of conflict and displacement prepare him well to lead UNHCR during a time of growing global refugee crises.

Addis Ababa, December 19, 2025 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held strategic talks this afternoon with Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, who arrived in Ethiopia for a one-day working visit aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation between the two countries. In a social media post, Prime Minister Abiy said the discussions built on engagements held over the past year. “We held a productive working lunch, continuing the discussions held over the past year and building on the progress made in strengthening our bilateral cooperation,” the Prime Minister stated. He added that the talks focused on advancing shared priorities and reaffirmed both leaders’ commitment to deepening their partnership, promoting regional stability, and supporting ongoing development efforts.

Addis Ababa, December 19, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia and Kenya are strong partners that are actively working for regional peace and stability in the Horn of Africa, Kenya’s outgoing Ambassador to Ethiopia, George Orina, told ENA. Elaborating on the role of two countries in peace and security of the region, the Ambassador noted that “Kenya and Ethiopia have been the vanguard states” in terms of promoting peace and security within the region. “We have worked together in Somalia in support of the federal government of Somalia to deal with the threat of terror as posed by Al-Shabaab. We continue to work through the various missions of the African Union at AMISOM, ATMIS, and now AUSSOM.” Kenya and Ethiopia still have a firm commitment when terror exists, he said, stressing that “it is our obligation and responsibility to see how to work to ensure that we have peace and security.” For the Ambassador, sustainable development can only be realized on the foundational basis of peace and security.     Ambassador Orina further noted that the foundations of the relations of Kenya and Ethiopia were set by the founding father of Kenya, Jomo Kenyatta, and Emperor Haile Selassie of Ethiopia. These relations have been built on successfully by leaders of the two countries; and the leaders continue to lead from the front, Ambassador Orina said, adding that “our leaders continue to have regular interactions at bilateral level and multilateral level.” During the interactions, he stated that the leaders recognize the common values and the aspirations of the people of this continent and the people of the two countries. According to him, the trade volumes between the two countries has been growing and trading under the AfCFTA is going to further raise the volume of trade. Regarding the role of the two countries in realizing regional integration, he said integration is a big agenda for Africa, the building blocks for African integration as Kenya and Ethiopia are at the forefront of such agenda. In terms of working together, the Ambassador stressed that infrastructure is a big driver for integration, pointing at the LAPSSET Corridor Project dedicated to interconnecting Ethiopia, Kenya and South Sudan. Ambassador Orina further emphasized that “energy is the biggest driver for manufacturing and industrialization. And working together, under the East African power pool, we (Kenya and Ethiopia) have developed the infrastructure for the transmission of power from Ethiopia.” Congratulating Ethiopia on the launch of the GERD, the outgoing ambassador stated that it is “a transformative project with significant potential to lighten and contribute to the development of our region”. Moreover, the two countries are working together to ensure that they have the foundational basis for integration and interactions between their peoples. “Kenyans are coming to Ethiopia for tourism, and for business; and the same is happening for Ethiopians going to Kenya as free movement of people is a big driver for integration.” Ethiopia and Kenya share deep-rooted and rapidly growing relations across political, economic, and social spheres, reinforced by high-level bilateral engagements and major infrastructure projects.

​​​​​​Addis Ababa, December 18, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s efforts to reclaim its scattered cultural treasures have gained significant momentum with the recent return of a historic shield from the Royal Ethiopian Trust, prominent historian and sociologist Alula Pankhurst said. The country has stepped up its global efforts to repatriate cultural artifacts looted during the 1868 Maqdala campaign and through other illicit means. Alula, who teaches history and sociology at Addis Ababa University, told ENA that this recovery marks a significant milestone, regarded by heritage advocates as both a symbolic and practical breakthrough in the long-standing restitution campaign. Progress has accelerated through strengthened collaboration with institutional and civil society partners in the United Kingdom and Italy, he added. Growing dialogue and coordinated action are replacing previous resistance and delays, enabling the opening of collections, tracing of provenance, and clearer pathways for the return of artifacts. The campaign targets major collections seized during the 1868 Maqdala campaign, the Italian occupation, and decades of illicit trafficking. Focused on repositories in Britain, Italy, Europe, and North America, the renewed drive is led by the Association for the Return of Maqdala Ethiopian Treasures (AFROMET), working closely with national heritage institutions and government agencies. He also described the effort to the Ethiopian News Agency as a “sustained and multifaceted campaign.” He highlighted the coordinated involvement of government bodies, international organizations, and committed individuals. “These initiatives aim to consolidate and celebrate Ethiopia’s rich historical and artistic legacy within its borders, providing invaluable resources for national pride, education, and tourism,” Pankhurst said. He identified the Institute of Ethiopian Studies (IES) as a central force in the movement. The IES, home to the world’s largest collection of Ethiopian ethnographic and religious artifacts, collaborates closely with the National Museum to safeguard the nation’s heritage, he added. According to him, the government’s restitution drive is increasingly tied to economic development. The active role of the Minister of Tourism reflects this shift, framing returned cultural artifacts as vital assets for national growth, he said, adding that recent achievements underscore this progress. He also emphasized that the reclaimed treasures has strengthened by forming partnerships in the UK, Italy, Europe and North America resulted a rise in private donors motivated by what they call an “ethical imperative” to restore cultural items to their rightful homeland. For Pankhurst, this mission is deeply personal and intergenerational as his grandmother defended Ethiopia during the Italian invasion, and his father was a founding advocate of AFROMET. He continues the work today through the National Heritage Restitution Committee and the Society of Friends of the IES. Despite recent gains, Pankhurst cautions the journey is far from over. “A rich heritage of Ethiopian artifacts remains abroad, underscoring the necessity for continued and expanded initiatives,” he said, envisioning a future where Ethiopia presents a full and authentic account of its history to the world. The country has been working intensively to return its various artifacts looted in 1868, during the reign of Emperor Tewodros II following the battle of Maqdala at northern Ethiopia.

​​​​​​Addis Ababa, December 18, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopian parliamentarians say the strategic partnership with India could serve as a powerful platform to advance the interests of developing nations while leveraging the continental roles of both countries. Following Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s official visit to Ethiopia and his address to the House of People’s Representatives on Wednesday, the Ethiopian News Agency spoke with MPs who shared their perspectives on the growing Ethiopia–India partnership. As two historic nations strengthen their bilateral ties, Ethiopia and India have formally elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership, leaders announced. The move is widely seen as a milestone, opening a new chapter of deeper cooperation and shared progress between the two countries. Notably, Indian Prime Minister Modi’s address to the Ethiopian parliament drew international attention, amplifying Global South diplomacy beyond the scope of bilateral talks. In his speech, he emphasized the commitment of both countries to deepen cooperation across multiple sectors based on the principle of mutual benefit. Nejat Girma, a member of parliament, highlighted the long-standing diplomatic ties and strong people-to-people relations between Ethiopia and India. She also emphasized the need to further strengthen the partnership to promote shared prosperity. Fathi Mahdi, another parliament member, described Ethiopia and India as ancient civilizations whose futures are shaped by their own choices. Fathi noted that elevating bilateral relations to a strategic partnership would foster a resilient and enduring friendship, regardless of shifting global circumstances. In this regard, he added, Prime Minister Modi’s visit reflects the growing strength of the relationship. The partnership would be particularly valuable in enabling the two countries to support each other on international platforms, another MP Ambassador Tofiq Abdullahi underscored.   Speaker of the House of Peoples' Representatives (HoPR), Tagesse Chafo, stated that Ethiopia and India are working diligently to advance the interests of developing countries by leveraging their continental influence. It is worth recalling that Ethiopia and India established official diplomatic relations in 1948, and their current strategic partnership has created new avenues for the shared prosperity of both nations.

Addis Ababa, December 17, 2025 (ENA) —Scholars from Wachamo University have firmly expressed Ethiopia’s sovereign right to develop and utilize its natural resources within the Abay River basin and along the Red Sea coast.     They strongly condemned Egypt’s persistent colonial-era rhetoric, labeling it outdated and unacceptable in the modern era. Highlighting the ongoing dispute, the scholars noted Egypt’s continued reliance on obsolete treaties that unfairly claim disproportionate benefits from the Nile’s waters. As a downstream country, Egypt’s stance limits the rights of upstream nations like Ethiopia, despite Ethiopia contributing over 86 percent of the Nile’s water flow. Temesgen Tomas, lecturer and researcher in Peace and Security Studies at Wachamo University, told ENA that Egypt has historically obstructed Ethiopia’s development and peace efforts.     He stressed Ethiopia’s determination to provide electricity and foster growth through projects harnessing the Abay River, despite significant international pressure and political challenges. “Ethiopians have made history by overcoming these obstacles and completing the construction of their projects,” he said. Historian and researcher Asrat Ermolo on his part emphasized Ethiopia’s absolute right to develop its resources along both the Red Sea and the Abay River.     He also condemned Egypt’s attempts to block Ethiopia’s access as a violation of international law and modern principles of sovereignty. Earlier, the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned Egypt’s repeated efforts to revive colonial-era negotiations over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), stating such attempts disregard the political and economic realities of the 21st century. The scholars reaffirmed the Ethiopian government’s firm commitment to safeguarding national interests, including securing access to a seaport, underscoring Ethiopia’s right to fully utilize its natural resources for the benefit of its people.

Addis Ababa, December 17, 2025 (ENA) —Recently accredited ambassadors from several countries have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening their respective nations’ bilateral relations with Ethiopia across multiple sectors. Speaking to the Ethiopian News Agency, the envoys of Indonesia, Switzerland, Sweden, and Canada expressed their dedication to expanding cooperation in agriculture, trade, development, peace, and multilateral diplomacy. Indonesia’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Faizal Chery Sidharta, highlighted expanding agricultural cooperation, including cattle artificial insemination, as a foundation for broader engagement in agri-processing and aquaculture. He emphasized Ethiopia’s strategic role in boosting economic ties between Africa and Southeast Asia and noted growing Indonesian interest in tourism and business, aided by direct flights between Jakarta and Addis Ababa. “We want to move beyond our shared history of anti-colonial struggle into mutually beneficial development cooperation,” he said, emphasizing the importance of business-to-business ties. He highlighted that strengthening links between chambers of commerce, the Ethiopian Investment Commission, and Indonesian institutions would further deepen ties between the two countries. On her part, Switzerland’s Ambassador, Riccarda Chanda, outlined plans to make Addis Ababa a regional hub for health, food systems, migration, and humanitarian cooperation. She emphasized that the city’s role as a multilateral capital, hosting the African Union and major UN institutions, gives it significant strategic leverage. Sweden’s Ambassador, Magnus Lennartsson, praised the countries’ long-standing relationship, with 80 years of diplomatic ties next year. “Our business ties go back more than 100 years, but the economy here is growing very rapidly. There are strong economic reforms going on, and we are optimistic about future commercial relations,” he said. Sweden and Ethiopia share strong alignment on multilateralism, peace and security, and development cooperation, the ambassador noted. He highlighted opportunities for Swedish companies amid Ethiopia’s rapid economic growth and reforms, as well as strong people-to-people connections through the Ethiopian diaspora in Sweden. He also renewed his country’s commitment to support Ethiopia’s national dialogue, transitional justice process, and broader development agenda. Canada’s Ambassador, Nicolas Simard, said Canada aims to expand collaboration into economic sectors such as aerospace, mining, and education, building on existing development and peace partnerships. “We want to build on this strong foundation to develop new areas of economic partnership with Ethiopia,” he said. Observers say the renewed commitments from these nations underscore Ethiopia’s rising role as a hub for regional cooperation, trade, and sustainable development.

Addis Ababa, December 17, 2025 (ENA) —India and Ethiopia will elevate their bilateral relationships to the level of strategic partnership to unleash potentials of the two nations, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. In his address to the joint session of the House of People's Representatives and the House of Federation today, PM Modi said Ethiopia and India are the cradles of ancient civilizations walking confidently into the future together. Peoples of the two nations traded cotton, coffee, and gold, among other items, across the Indian Ocean. Moreover, they exchanged idea, stories and ways of life, he noted. The two nations were also trade centers of the world and bridges between civilizations. According to him, peoples of the two nations had already started writing a new chapter together before formal diplomatic relations began. “Our formal diplomatic relations begins soon after India become independent. Even before embassies were set up, our people had already started writing a new chapter together.” Currently, Ethiopia and India are expanding their bilateral relation in socioeconomic and political spheres. “Today, Indian companies are among the largest foreign investors in Ethiopia. They have invested more than 5 billion US dollars in diverse sectors like textiles, manufacturing, agriculture, health, and more. They have created more than 75,000 local jobs. Our partnership has unlocked more potential,” he stated. Furthermore, leaders of the two countries have taken a big step forward and decided to elevate the bilateral relations of the two countries to the level of strategic partnership. PM Modi said, “We decided to elevate the bilateral relations of the two countries to the level of strategic partnership. This will unleash the potentials of our economy through cooperation in technology, innovation, mining, sustainable and green energy." This, he stressed, will secure the future of the peoples of the two countries by cooperating in food security, health security, and capacity building. "We will also enhance our trade and investment cooperation as well as on defense and security matters,” the PM said. He finally underlined that Ethiopia and India will walk, build, and succeed together as equals, partners and friends.

Addis Ababa, December 17, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s timeless traditions of dignity, independence, and self-respect serve as a powerful source of inspiration for all, while Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s vision stands as a shining example to the world, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored. A state banquet honoring Prime Minister Narendra Modi was held at the Addis International Convention Center on Tuesday night. Addressing the occasion, Prime Minister Modi said that being honored by one of the world’s most ancient and rich civilizations was a matter of immense pride for him. On behalf of all the people of India, I accept this honor with at most humility and gratitude, he said, adding: “This honor belongs to the countless Indians who have helped shape our partnership.” Expressing his sincere gratitude to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and commending his leadership, Modi said “At the time when the world’s attention is focused on the global south, Ethiopia’s timeless traditions of dignity, independence, and self-respect serve as a powerful source of inspiration for all of us.” “It is indeed fortunate that at this critical juncture the reigns of Ethiopia are in the capable hands of Dr. Abiy with his vision of Medemer and his commitment for development, the manner in which he is guiding Ethiopia..., stands as a shining example for the whole world.” Whether it is environmental protection, inclusive development, or strengthening unity in a diverse society, Modi deeply appreciated PM Abiy’s efforts, initiatives and steadfast commitment. Stating that education is the foundation of any nation, he said India takes pride in the fact that the greatest contribution to India-Ethiopia relations has come from our teachers. For Prime Minister Modi, Ethiopia’s great culture drew Indian teachers to the country, and he noted that they were bestowed with the unique privilege of nurturing several generations of Ethiopians. Even today, he added, many Indian faculty members continued to serve in Ethiopian universities and higher education institutions. “The future belongs to partnerships built on vision and trust, we wish to advance such cooperation with Ethiopia, a cooperation that addresses global challenges and also creates new opportunities.”

Addis Ababa, December 17, 2025 (ENA) —The Global South must achieve sovereignty of education, culture, and technology, among others, Organization of Southern Cooperation (OSC) Secretary-General Manssour Bin Mussallam said. Speaking at the Institute of Foreign Affairs' Fireside Chat titled, “A Third Way: The Greater South Amidst Global Disorder,” OSC Secretary-General, Manssour Bin Mussallam emphasized the critical importance of sovereignty for countries in the Global South, emphasizing control over knowledge, culture, technology, and resources. In this regard, the Secretary-General proposed the imperative necessity of building a third way of development from the Global South by the Global South, yet for the entire humanity. According to him, the stalks of inseparable sovereignties, including education, culture, technology, health resources, food , energy, etc. In terms of educational sovereignty, he advocated for curricula and narratives that reflect local histories, contributions, and indigenous knowledge systems of the Global South. “We must achieve educational sovereignty by revising our curricula to better reflect our contribution to the world civilization; to prepare our youth for the complexity of the world through trans-disciplinary approaches and contexts that respond to national priorities, local realities and individuality of our students,” Mussallam explained. Countries of greater South need to also achieve cultural sovereignty in their contextual realities, he added. “We must also achieve cultural sovereignty in the context of our greater South; because our cultures have often been reduced to folklore, to the dances and music of the past. We must be rooted in our past informed by our past, and must honor our past. But, the truth is that there is no culture without our peoples; and our peoples are not stagnating in the past. They are living, evolving and growing.” The Secretary-General noted that technological sovereignty would enable developing countries to control innovation, production, and research priorities rather than relying on external powers. Moreover, he advocated for health and vaccine sovereignty, addressing inequities in access, storage, and representation in global research agendas. Mussallam further urged for food and energy sovereignty, including local control over agricultural systems and renewable energy production, with a focus on protecting communities and resources. “To do so, we must first become capable as countries of the greater South, articulating the long-term vision of the world we want to build or the architecture that we seek to achieve because without vision there can be no mobilization, and without mobilization there can be no transformation,” he elaborated.

Addis Ababa, December 17, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia and India are poised to build modern and capable states for the next generation as this shared outlook opens wide opportunities, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed noted. Addressing the state banquet held in honor of Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday, PM Abiy said the visit of India's Prime Minister Modi is beyond a diplomatic occasion. It is a meeting of two nations that understand how careful planning and bold ideas can fuel transformation, he added. “Our history is long, our bonds are deep but the most important chapter of our journey lies ahead,” he stated, stressing that Ethiopia, like India, believes in building strength at home and engaging the world while safeguarding its dependence. PM Abiy also noted that “Prime Minister Modi’s vision of self-reliant India anchored in practical governance and broad strategic partnership speaks directly to us and resonates with our philosophy of Medemer, the belief that when we are together, we multiply our strength.” According to him, Ethiopia and India are poised to build modern and capable states for the next generation as this shared outlook opens wide opportunities. Factories can create dignified jobs, digital platforms can reach communities across the countries, clean energy can power industries and transform farms, Abiy said. Furthermore, entrepreneurs from Addis Ababa to Bengaluru can build global competitive companies where young people are ready to innovate, to lead and to shape the future. “Ethiopia and India share more than interests, we share values, a commitment to sovereignty, human dignity and development that lifts all people. Our partnership is strategic, long-term and rooted in mutual respect.” When Ethiopia and India advance with shared ambition, they show the world the true potential of the Global South, Abiy underscored. “Progress grounded in dignity, development anchored in sovereignty and nations shaping their own future with purpose, vision, and lasting impact.”

Addis Ababa, December 16, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia and India have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening Africa’s voice in global decision-making, said Sudhakar Dalela, Secretary (Economic Relations) in India’s Ministry of External Affairs. Speaking to the media after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Ethiopia, Dalela highlighted the warm reception by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and described the discussions as “productive and wide-ranging,” covering the full spectrum of the bilateral partnership. The two leaders held one-to-one talks, followed by delegation-level discussions, round-table meetings, and a state banquet hosted by Prime Minister Abiy. Both nations agreed to deepen collaboration in trade and investment, agriculture, renewable energy, health, education, skill development, defence, mining, artificial intelligence, and digital public infrastructure. On international cooperation, Dalela said, “We both believe, India and Ethiopia, that international institutions must reflect contemporary global realities rather than outdated structures.” He added that India supports Africa’s rightful place in the UN Security Council and a stronger role for the continent in global financial institutions, while promoting African perspectives on climate adaptation, trade, technology, and development. Ethiopia, a key African Union member and recent BRICS partner, will coordinate closely with India across multilateral forums. Dalela noted that India will host BRICS activities starting January next year and that PM Modi has invited Prime Minister Abiy to participate in the upcoming BRICS summit. Speaking on longstanding ties, India and Ethiopia share a long history of friendly relations, underpinned by people-to-people ties, growing trade, and development cooperation. Indian companies are active in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, textiles, and education in Ethiopia. The visit marks India’s continued engagement with Africa, working with partners like Ethiopia to push for reforms in global governance and deepen cooperation through platforms such as BRICS.

Addis Ababa, December 16, 2025 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has expressed gratitude to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his visit to Ethiopia, announcing that Ethiopia and India have elevated their relations to a strategic partnership. In his social media post, Prime Minister Abiy also highlighted PM Modi’s visit to Ethiopia as a milestone that opens a new chapter of deeper cooperation and shared progress between the two countries. “Thank you, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, for your visit to Ethiopia and for your continued efforts to strengthen India–Ethiopia relations. Our elevated ties to a strategic level mark an important milestone and opens a new chapter of deeper cooperation and shared progress between our two countries,” PM Abiy revealed. Ethiopia and India have reaffirmed their growing strategic partnership following high-level talks between the two leaders here in Addis Ababa. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed yesterday welcomed PM Modi at the National Palace during an official welcoming ceremony, followed by a tour of the Palace Museum. The visit underscored the strong and longstanding ties between the two nations. The two leaders held a productive tête-à-tête meeting, which was followed by a bilateral session involving their respective delegations. Discussions focused on exploring renewed avenues of cooperation that reflect the expanding partnership and shared priorities of Ethiopia and India. During the visit, the two Prime Ministers also presided over the exchange of key bilateral agreements.

Addis Ababa, December 17, 2025 (ENA) —Leaders of political parties joint councils and political parties have reaffirmed their commitments toward contributing to the success of the historic national dialogue. The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has been striving to realize an inclusive national dialogue by involving the Tigray Regional State and political parties abstaining from participating in the process due to various reasons. Ethiopian Political Parties Joint Council Chairman, Solomon Ayele, told ENA that the success of the national dialogue is key to the nation’s lasting peace and stability.   He added that the Council is contributing its share toward realizing the goals of the National Dialogue Commission. According to him, the Joint Council will further strengthen its support to make the Commission complete its remaining work successfully. Prosperity Party Democratic Culture Building Sector Head and Executive Committee Member of the Political Parties Joint Council, Melese Alemu said the endeavors undertaken by the Commission so far have been encouraging. Noting the usefulness of the national dialogue in building a democratic system, he said Prosperity Party, along with other parties, will strengthen its contribution for the success of the historic national dialogue. Addis Tewlid (New Generation) Party President and Chairman of the Joint Council of Political Parties in Oromia Regional State, Solomon Tafesse, said that his party is actively participating in the dialogue process. For Solomon, the Council is playing its part to ensure that all political parties participate in the dialogue. Amhara Democratic Forces Movement and Amhara Region Political Parties Joint Council Chairman, Tesfahun Alemneh, said his party is working to ensure that all parties take part in the national dialogue. He added that the party will be playing its part in helping political parties that are not participating in the dialogue process to engage. Member of the Executive Committee of Netsanetna Ekulnet (Freedom and Equality) Party and Addis Ababa Political Parties Joint Council Chairperson, Addis Mohammed said dialogue is the only way to resolve the political and social problems in Ethiopia, reaffirming her party’s readiness for its success. Ethiopian Citizens for Social Justice Party (Ezema) Central Ethiopia Regional State Coordinator and Chairperson of the Joint Council of Political Parties in the region, Demis Gebre, said the national dialogue is a crucial chapter for state building. Realizing this, he added that his party is actively participating, emphasizing that all citizens must contribute their part to ensure that the remaining tasks are executed successfully. Ethiopia is currently in the advanced stages of the historic national dialogue process, which is widely seen as a significant step toward achieving lasting peace and stability, with potential positive implications for the entire region.

Addis Ababa, December 16, 2025 (ENA) —Ethiopia and India have reaffirmed their growing strategic partnership following high-level talks between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Addis Ababa. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today welcomed PM Modi at the National Palace during an official welcoming ceremony, followed by a tour of the Palace Museum. The visit underscored the strong and longstanding ties between the two nations. The two leaders held a productive tête-à-tête meeting, which was followed by a bilateral session involving their respective delegations. Discussions focused on exploring renewed avenues of cooperation that reflect the expanding partnership and shared priorities of Ethiopia and India. In a social media post, Prime Minister Abiy noted: “We held a productive tête-à-tête meeting, followed by a bilateral session with our respective delegations, exploring renewed avenues of cooperation that reflect the growing partnership and shared priorities between Ethiopia and India.” During the visit, the two Prime Ministers also presided over the exchange of key bilateral agreements. These included an Agreement on Mutual Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters, a Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of a Data Centre within Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and an MoU on United Nations Peacekeeping Cooperation, reinforcing the two countries’ joint commitment to international peace and security. “India has been a longstanding partner of Ethiopia, and today’s meetings underscore our shared commitment to expanding collaboration across multiple sectors for the mutual benefit of our nations,” Prime Minister Abiy stated. The discussions highlighted both countries’ intent to further strengthen cooperation across diplomacy, technology, trade, and global peace initiatives, marking a new chapter in Ethiopia–India relations.

Addis Ababa, December 16, 2025 (ENA) —Earlier today, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India at the National Palace during an official welcoming ceremony, followed by a tour of the Palace Museum. This was followed by a tête-à-tête meeting between the two Prime Ministers, and subsequently a bilateral meeting with their respective delegations. The discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in trade and investment, digitization, and tourism, highlighting the shared priorities of both nations, according to Office of the Prime Minister. Recall that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, earlier this afternoon for an official visit. Upon his arrival, Prime Minister Modi was warmly welcomed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed at Bole International Airport. Prime Minister Abiy said PM Modi’s presence underscores the growing ties between the two countries and expressed optimism about strengthening bilateral relations.

Yordanos D. The afternoon of December 16, 2025, was crisp and clear over Addis Ababa. As Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's aircraft touched down at Bole International Airport, the moment carried the weight of contemporary urgency mixed with ancient familiarity. This wasn't just another diplomatic visit it was a meeting between two of the Global South's most transformative leaders, coming together at a pivotal moment in world history. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stood waiting at the airport, his trademark warm smile reflecting a leader fully aware of the historic weight of the moment. When the two leaders embraced, the gesture spoke louder than words. This was a meeting of kindred reformers—men who had fundamentally reshaped governance in their respective nations. Prime Minister Modi has transformed India’s bureaucracy through digitalization, extending banking access to millions via technology. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has spearheaded reforms that opened one of Africa’s most closed economies, setting Ethiopia on an ambitious path to become the continent’s first middle-income country. Both leaders are not only accomplished authors and poets but also visionary practitioners of transformation. Modi’s Digital India initiative has built a digital infrastructure serving over a billion people, while Abiy’s “Medemer State” philosophy of synergy has united a nation and unlocked opportunities that had remained closed for decades. The two visionary leaders are steering their nations at a time when the historic relationship between Ethiopia and India, spanning over two millennia—is transforming into a dynamic modern partnership fueled by growing trade and investment. While their shared cultural ties date back to the Aksumite Kingdom, when Indian merchants traded textiles, spices, and other goods through the Port of Adulis, the two countries formalized their diplomatic relations 70 years ago, in 1950. In that regard, the chemistry between the two leaders was evident from the start. As they discussed India’s upcoming BRICS chairmanship in 2026, with Ethiopia as the bloc’s newest member, both could clearly envision the possibilities for collaboration and shared progress. With over $6.5 billion in Indian investment already generating 17,000 jobs in Ethiopia, they spoke about scaling this success. Ethiopian IT graduates were already working for Indian tech companies remotely, while Indian pharmaceutical companies were setting up manufacturing units in Ethiopian industrial parks. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Ethiopia has now emerged as a pivotal moment in bilateral relations, recasting a historically warm partnership into a broader political, economic, and security alignment shaped by shared strategic priorities. This is his first official trip in more than a decade and comes as both countries reposition themselves within the Global South and the expanded BRICS framework. Diplomats describe the engagement as timely, pointing to converging interests in strategic autonomy, digital governance, and South-South cooperation. At the core of the visit are talks between Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, expected to focus on trade expansion, investment flows, technology transfer and people-to-people exchanges. Officials say discussions will also cover manufacturing partnerships, digital public infrastructure, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, and skills development, sectors where Indian firms already maintain a visible footprint in Ethiopia. This visit builds on a steady pace of leader-level engagement since Prime Minister Abiy took office. His first official visit to India from October 27 to 29, 2018, marked a definitive reset in ties. Following talks in New Delhi, PM Abiy hailed India as “a reliable development partner with deep historical ties to Africa,” as both sides agreed to deepen cooperation in agriculture, information technology, pharmaceuticals, and human capital development. Political Convergence Since then, Modi and Abiy have met repeatedly on the sidelines of major multilateral forums, using these encounters to shape a more strategic convergence. One such meeting followed Ethiopia’s formal accession to BRICS in January 2024. During the talks, Modi congratulated Abiy on the entry, while Abiy acknowledged India’s support and congratulated Modi on the Chandrayaan mission’s success, terming it "a moment of pride and inspiration for Ethiopia and the Global South.” The two leaders have met regularly during major international summits, most recently at the G20 Summit in Johannesburg on November 22, 2025, where they discussed expanding cooperation in technology, skilling, and development. PM Abiy Ahmed has also participated in successive editions of the Voice of the Global South Summits chaired by India, reflecting Ethiopia’s growing profile in Global South diplomacy. Ethiopia featured prominently during India’s G20 presidency, which culminated in the African Union gaining permanent membership. At the time, Modi described Ethiopia as “a key partner for India in Africa,” highlighting cooperation in digital transformation and manufacturing. Discussions reviewed ongoing Indian-supported projects in Ethiopia and underscored a shared vision for more inclusive global governance. Pillars of Engagement Governance reform and institutional capacity building remain another cornerstone of engagement. From May 12 to 18, 2025, a high-level Ethiopian delegation comprising regional presidents, vice presidents, and senior ministers participated in a capacity building programme at India’s National Centre for Good Governance. Ethiopian officials reaffirmed their interest in policy reform, digital governance, and technology-driven public service delivery, drawing on India’s experience in large-scale administrative transformation. Multilateral Significance Modi’s Addis Ababa visit also carries wider multilateral significance. With both countries now members of BRICS and India set to chair the bloc in 2026, diplomats expect the talks to inject momentum into broader India-Africa engagement, including renewed discussions on convening the long-delayed fourth India-Africa Forum Summit. The visit highlights Ethiopia’s growing strategic relevance in India’s Africa policy and India’s expanding role in Ethiopia’s economic and security calculus. With investment, agriculture, mining, digital public infrastructure, and cybersecurity on the table, the talks will test whether long-standing political goodwill can be translated into sustained and long-term outcomes. Historical Roots India and Ethiopia are reinforcing a partnership that draws strength from more than 2,000 years of historical contact. Historical ties date back to the Axumite Empire in the first century AD, when trade flourished through the ancient Red Sea port of Adulis. Indian merchants exchanged silk and spices for Ethiopian gold and ivory, laying the foundation for enduring commercial and cultural links. Formal diplomatic relations were established soon after India’s independence. Legation-level ties were set up in 1948, and full diplomatic relations were established in 1950, with Sardar Sant Singh becoming India’s first Ambassador to Ethiopia. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Ethiopia on 16-17 December 2025 reflects India’s broader outreach towards the African region. After Mauritius, Ghana, Namibia and South Africa this is Modi’s fifth visit to the continent this year. Ethiopia is a rising economic power, India’s historical and long-standing development partner in the African continent, a member of the BRICS Forum and a diplomatic hub of the region. PM’s visit to Ethiopia will help in reinvigorating India’s partnership with Africa.

Addis Ababa, December 16, 2025 (ENA) —Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for an official visit. Upon his arrival earlier this afternoon, Prime Minister Modi was warmly welcomed by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed at Bole International Airport. Prime Minister Abiy said PM Modi’s presence underscores the growing ties between the two countries and expressed optimism about strengthening bilateral relations. ​​​​​​“His presence underscores the growing ties between our two countries, and I look forward to meaningful engagements that will further deepen our cooperation across shared priorities,” he said in a social media post.

  Addis Ababa, December 16, 2025 (ENA) —State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Hadera Abera, received Sudhakar Dalela, Secretary (Economic Relations) at India’s Ministry of External Affairs earlier today. During the meeting, Ambassador Hadera highlighted the longstanding historical ties between Ethiopia and India and noted the continued strengthening of bilateral relations in recent years. He said India is Ethiopia’s second-largest trading partner and remarked that the upcoming visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi comes at a critical time, as Ethiopia’s ongoing macroeconomic reforms are creating a more conducive environment for foreign investment. He also underscored Ethiopia–India cooperation in multilateral structures, including the United Nations and BRICS, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. On his part, Secretary Sudhakar Dalela emphasized the positive trajectory of relations between the two countries and described the Prime Minister’s visit as forward-looking. Both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in areas including education, transport, agriculture, health, science and technology, artificial intelligence, and other sectors of mutual interest.