Addis Ababa, May 5, 2026 (ENA) —Organizers of the upcoming African Social Media Influencers Summit (ASMIS) say the event will serve as a critical platform for African content creators to challenge negative portrayals of the continent and promote more balanced narratives about Africa. The summit, scheduled to take place in Addis Ababa from May 7 to 8, is being organized through a collaboration between Pulse of Africa (POA) media and AGA Tech Enterprise.   Organizers say the two-day gathering will bring together some of Africa’s leading digital creators to discuss how storytelling, innovation, and digital connectivity are reshaping communication, public engagement, and economic opportunities across the continent. A high-level stakeholder consultation held ahead of the summit has already set what organizers described as a strong strategic foundation for the event, positioning Addis Ababa as an emerging hub for amplifying Africa’s voice in the global digital space. Speaking at a press briefing on Tuesday, Pulse of Africa Coordinator Bereket Sisay said Africa is often portrayed through narratives centered on conflict, poverty, and crisis—representations he argued fail to reflect the continent’s broader realities.   “The summit aims to transform how Africa is narrated by bringing social media influencers together for discussions and coordination focused on reshaping perceptions of Africa, individual countries, and African people,” Bereket said. He emphasized that influencers have become powerful content creators whose videos, images, and written posts increasingly shape global perceptions of the continent. According to Bereket, changing long-standing negative narratives will require stronger collaboration among influencers, media organizations, and digital stakeholders. He also highlighted the growing influence of artificial intelligence on content creation, noting that AI is rapidly transforming how digital content is produced, distributed, and consumed.   Bereket said the summit will encourage influencers to integrate AI tools into their work to improve both the quality and reach of their content while helping them remain competitive in the evolving digital landscape. He added that participants will also be given opportunities to explore and document developments across Addis Ababa, with possible visits to destinations outside the capital. According to him, the resulting content would also help strengthen positive storytelling about both Ethiopia and Africa for regional and global audiences. On his part, AGA Tech Enterprise CEO Gemeda Olana said ASMIS is intended to become one of Africa’s largest gatherings dedicated specifically to digital creators. He noted that many global influencer conferences do not adequately address the unique realities facing African creators.   “African influencers often lack platforms where they can openly discuss their experiences, the challenges they face, and how digital platforms affect their careers,” Gemeda said. He added that hosting the summit in Addis Ababa, home to African Union headquarters and several major regional institutions, could also help boost Ethiopia’s international visibility and tourism sector. According to Gemeda, ASMIS 2026 will focus on key issues including content monetization challenges, ethical use of artificial intelligence, and the future of digital content creation in Africa. The summit will also explore how influencer-driven storytelling can support the African Union’s Agenda 2063 development framework. Moreover, the event to generate a broader wave of digital content showcasing Ethiopia and Africa in a more positive light while helping strengthen the continent’s image globally, Gemeda revealed.

Addis Ababa, May 5, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia has strongly rejected what it described as “baseless accusations” made during a recent joint press conference by the Sudanese Armed Forces, Sudan’s Foreign Minister, and military spokesperson. In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Ethiopia reaffirmed that the people of Ethiopia and Sudan share a long-standing history of friendship and brotherly ties. The statement accused the Sudanese Armed Forces of overlooking the extensive involvement of Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF) mercenaries in the ongoing conflict, alleging that Sudanese military actors have provided arms and financial support to those groups. According to statement, the activities of TPLF fighters in Sudan are “a matter of public record,” and the government claims there is credible evidence indicating that Sudan has become a base for anti-Ethiopian forces operating against the country. Ethiopia further alleged that the accusations made by Sudanese military officials are being driven by external actors pursuing what it called a “nefarious agenda.” Despite the growing tensions, Ethiopia emphasized that it remains committed to supporting the people of Sudan and maintaining the historic relationship between the two neighboring nations. The Ethiopian government also renewed its call for an immediate end to the conflict in Sudan, stressing that there is no military solution to the ongoing civil war. It urged all parties to agree to an immediate humanitarian truce, followed by a lasting ceasefire and an independent, inclusive, and transparent civilian-led political dialogue aimed at restoring peace and civilian rule in Sudan.

Addis Ababa, May 5, 2026 (ENA) — President Taye Atske Selassie said that today’s patriotism should be expressed through active contribution to national development and leadership in modernization, as the country marked the 85th Patriots’ Victory Day. The 85th Victory Day was celebrated with great ceremony at the Patriots’ Victory Monument Square (Arat Kilo) in Addis Ababa, attended by senior government officials, diplomats, and members of the public. Speaking at the event, President Taye stated that the day represents a historic triumph over fascism and Nazism, extending his congratulations to the people of the nation and to patriots who secured the country’s sovereignty through sacrifice. He noted that the annual commemoration reflects the resilience and determined struggle of patriots, who, despite limited resources and basic weaponry, defeated a well-equipped invading force. According to the President, this victory demonstrated the power of unity to the world and safeguarded the country’s sovereignty on the global stage. The President further emphasized that the victory laid a lasting foundation to prevent the resurgence of fascist ideology, while underscoring that the legacy passed down from patriots includes peace, freedom, and self-confidence. Describing patriotism as a timeless national virtue, Taye said the historic victory continues to serve as a firm foundation for prosperity and a source of hope for the future. He stressed that every citizen has a responsibility to serve the country with awareness and foresight, noting that the aspirations of the people center on growth, development, and modernization. “Today’s patriotism is to be an actor of development and a leader of modernization,” the President stated, urging citizens to honor the sacrifices of past generations by working toward a better and more prosperous nation. Ethiopia commemorates Patriots’ Victory Day annually to honor the courage and sacrifice of those who resisted foreign occupation and defended the country’s independence.

Addis Ababa, May 5, 2026 (ENA) — A leading Kenyan aviation expert has called for sweeping reforms across Africa’s travel and aviation sectors, arguing that visa-free access and open skies are essential to unlocking the continent’s vast tourism potential. Speaking to ENA on the sidelines of the IATA Focus Africa Conference in Addis Ababa, Charles Gakuu emphasized the urgent need for stronger regional air connectivity and policy alignment among African nations. Gakuu, Managing Director of the Air Travel and Related Studies Centre in Nairobi, pointed to recent improvements in regional air links, highlighting the growing network of Ethiopian Airlines as a model for the continent. “We need to have open connectivity. I was very happy yesterday to catch a flight from Mombasa to Addis on Ethiopian Airlines. That was never there,” he said. He praised the airline’s expanding global reach, noting its connections across multiple continents. “I must commend Ethiopian Airlines, first of all, for the effort that they have made to spread the wings all over the world. I see Addis-Sao Paulo, I see Addis-Chicago, I see Addis-Washington, and so on. On the other side, Milan. It is very good. It's very good for air connectivity.” Despite these gains, Gakuu stressed that broader structural reforms are needed to fully realize Africa’s aviation and tourism potential. “The first of all is to have a visa-free continent. It does not make sense that I require a visa to go to my neighbor,” he said, pointing to integration models such as the European Union and the Schengen Area as examples worth emulating. He added that liberalizing airspace across the continent is equally critical. “The second thing that you need to do is, of course, to open up the skies.” Reflecting on his first visit to Addis Ababa in the early 1990s, Gakuu noted the city’s dramatic transformation over the past three decades. “I'm very, very delighted to see that in 30 years you have an electric train, you have huge freeways, and the numbers have grown, populations have grown,” he said, recalling a time when landmarks such as the Ghion Hotel and the Hilton Addis Ababa dominated the skyline. He also commended Ethiopian Airlines for extending its influence beyond aviation into hospitality, citing investments in high-quality accommodation for transit passengers. “Ethiopian Airlines have taken lead in that, and not just with aviation, but also in proper quality five-star hotels where transit passengers can be able to have a rest. And that is revenue for the airline, and of course revenue for the country,” he said. Gakuu highlighted Ethiopia’s visa-free access for Kenyan travelers as a positive example of regional cooperation. “I think it is only Kenyans and one more nationality that don't require a visa to get to Ethiopia. And we are very happy with that privilege,” he noted. Describing his arrival experience, he added, “When I came in, no questions asked. I just got my passport stamped, and in five minutes I was here.” He concluded with optimism about Ethiopia’s future, pointing to its hospitality sector and growing infrastructure. “I'm sure with the hospitality of the people, of the Ethiopians, there's no doubt that moving forward you're going to build also your tourism industry, Ethiopia’s aviation industry. It's good to see so many hotels coming up. I saw Radisson Blu Hotel Addis Ababa, and many more.”

Addis Ababa, May 2, 2026 —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has led a transformative series of high-level initiatives throughout April 2026, marking significant strides in scientific research, urban renewal, and macroeconomic stability while fortifying Ethiopia’s diplomatic and continental leadership. The Prime Minister’s activities this month were anchored by the inauguration of several landmark projects designed to bolster national self-sufficiency and urban livability, according to Office of the Prime Minister. Key among these was the unveiling of a state-of-the-art research complex at the Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI), equipped with 40 laboratories and a bioequivalence center to certify locally manufactured pharmaceuticals. In the capital, the Arada Park and Addis Sports Park projects were launched, transforming neglected areas into vibrant multi-purpose hubs that integrate Olympic-standard infrastructure with community housing and commercial opportunities. In a move that solidifies Ethiopia’s role in the future of African technology, Prime Minister Abiy was appointed as the African Union Champion for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Health. This continental mandate aligns with the Prime Minister’s domestic push for "Industry 4.0," emphasizing chips, data, and robotics as essential pillars of national sovereignty. Economic performance reviews for the nine-month period revealed a robust 9.2% growth rate, with projections reaching 10.2% for the coming year. This success is underpinned by sweeping reforms that turned state-owned enterprises into profitable entities generating 2.1 trillion birr in revenue. On the diplomatic front, Ethiopia hosted the Presidents of Burundi, Liberia, South Sudan, and Mozambique, signing several cooperation agreements in defense, health, and education. Domestically, the Prime Minister extended the appointment of Lt. Gen. Tadesse Worede as President of the Tigray Region Interim Administration following a review of the region’s annual performance. The month also highlighted Ethiopia's environmental and social commitment, with early preparations beginning for hosting COP32 in 2027 and the report of over 19.8 million jobs created over the past eight years, underscoring a period of intensive nation-building.

Addis Ababa, May 1, 2026 —Ustaz Jamal Bashir, founder of the “Kings of the Abay” YouTube channel, is calling for a serious reassessment of Egypt’s long-standing stance on the #AbayRiver. He argues that current policies fail to recognize the legitimate rights of upstream nations, especially Ethiopia, which contributes nearly 85% of the river’s water. In an exclusive interview with ENA, emal, who is also an advocate for the equitable utilization of the Abay River’s waters, said Egypt’s stance is rooted in outdated perceptions that fail to reflect present realities and the principle of equitable water utilization. “The current approach overlooks Ethiopia’s legitimate right to use its natural resources for development,” he said. He noted that historical agreements such as the 1929 and 1959 Nile treaties between Egypt and Sudan were concluded under colonial conditions without Ethiopia’s participation. According to him, relying on such agreements to limit Ethiopia’s access to fair water use lacks legal and moral justification. Jemal emphasized that Ethiopia’s position on the Abay is based on fair historical and legal grounds. He added that the progress of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam demonstrates the country’s commitment to achieving development while avoiding harm to downstream nations. “The GERD reflects Ethiopia’s rightful aspiration to utilize its resources responsibly,” he stated. He further stressed that external pressure would not deter Ethiopia’s development efforts but would instead reinforce its commitment to sovereignty and unity. “Ethiopia has the capacity to safeguard its interests and uphold its strategic choices,” he noted. Highlighting the river’s importance, he described the Abay, which originates from Lake Tana, as a critical resource for agriculture and national growth. He further noted that attempts to minimize its significance to Ethiopia are neither accurate nor objective. According to him, Ethiopia follows the principle of fair and equitable utilization of transboundary water resources, balancing its development needs with respect for other countries’ rights. He also called for a shift away from entrenched positions toward constructive dialogue based on mutual benefit. He also warned that instability in Sudan could disrupt regional balance and undermine cooperation among Nile Basin countries. Ethiopia is strengthening its role as a responsible regional actor by advancing development while promoting stability through dialogue and cooperation, he concluded.

Addis Ababa, May 1, 2026 — Ireland has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation with Ethiopia, placing climate action at the center of its development support,” the Irish Ambassador stated. Olivia Leslie, the Irish Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union, told ENA that Ireland has maintained a long-standing partnership with the Ethiopian government through programs focused on social protection and advancing the rights of women and girls. “We have worked for years in close partnership with Ethiopia, particularly in supporting vulnerable communities and promoting gender equality,” she said. She further explained that Ireland is expanding its climate-focused interventions across multiple regions of the country, including northern Ethiopia, with plans to extend activities to Somali and Afar regions, alongside ongoing work in Tigray on climate-smart agriculture. The ambassador also emphasized that gender considerations remain central to all climate initiatives. “We are ensuring that the needs of women and girls are reflected in the design of climate programs, whether implemented by government institutions, local organizations, or regional partners,” she stated. Leslie further added that Ireland collaborates with a wide range of partners, including the International Centre for Research in Agroforestry and the Ethiopian Agricultural Transformation Institute, as well as regional agricultural bureaus in Somali and Afar. Highlighting Ethiopia’s achievements, the ambassador praised the country’s leadership in climate action and renewable energy. “Ethiopia is showing really strong leadership in climate action. There is significant potential, particularly in renewable energy, and the government is actively working to harness it,” she said. She noted that Ethiopia has the capacity to translate its climate ambitions into concrete results, with the support of Ireland, the European Union, and other international partners. Looking ahead, Leslie said Ethiopia’s hosting of COP 32 next year will provide an important platform to advance both continental and global climate agendas. African countries must play a central role in climate negotiations, she stressed, adding, “Africa’s voice needs to be at the center of the COP process, given the continent’s vulnerability to climate change.” The ambassador also highlighted climate finance as a key issue, noting that funding must come from diverse sources, including governments and the private sector. She added that development partners should work to remove barriers that limit access to climate finance while supporting both mitigation and adaptation efforts. Reaffirming Ireland’s broader engagement, Leslie said the country will continue strengthening diplomatic, development, and economic ties with Ethiopia. “Ethiopia is a very important partner for Ireland, the European Union, and the wider international community. We want to deepen our cooperation, support the multilateral system, and build strong people-to-people connections,” she said.

Addis Ababa, April 30, 2026 —Ethiopia has intensified its diplomatic engagements in recent weeks, reinforcing its position in trade, investment, and regional leadership through a series of high-level visits, bilateral agreements, and international forums, according to Nebiat Getachew, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson. Briefing the media on recent diplomatic activities, Ambassador Nebiat stated that Ethiopia has been undertaking coordinated diplomatic efforts that safeguard national interests while enhancing the country’s standing in regional, continental, and global affairs. He noted that leaders from Burundi, Liberia, South Sudan, and Mozambique paid official working visits to Ethiopia in recent weeks, during which they discussed strengthening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. According to Nebiat, these visits resulted in multiple bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding aimed at deepening cooperation in agriculture, food security, tourism, technology, and other strategic sectors. He added that visiting delegations also toured Ethiopia’s flagship national initiatives, including the Green Legacy program, the Fayda digital identity platform, and the country’s expanding digital transformation efforts, including artificial intelligence. Nebiat emphasized that Ethiopia showcased progress in food sovereignty, agricultural modernization, and homegrown development initiatives designed to strengthen productivity and economic resilience. Furthermore, he noted that Ethiopia hosted several senior international representatives during this period, including China’s Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, as well as senior officials and foreign ministers from Portugal, the European Union, Austria, Bangladesh, the Czech Republic, and Sweden. “These engagements have enabled Ethiopia to clearly project its position on regional and global issues while strengthening diplomatic and economic partnerships,” Nebiat said. As part of its economic diplomacy, Ethiopia hosted the EU–Ethiopia Business Forum 2026 and a dedicated Ethiopia–Czech business forum, both aimed at expanding trade partnerships and attracting foreign investment. Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos also conducted official visits to Sweden and Norway, where he held discussions with government officials and company executives on expanding cooperation in trade, investment, renewable energy, agro-processing, technology, and tourism. Nebiat reiterated that Ethiopia has continued to use diplomacy to unlock new opportunities in trade and investment, particularly in strategic sectors linked to economic transformation and private sector growth. On the continental front, he noted that Ethiopia has played an active leadership role in African peace and security, including its responsibilities as Chair of the African Union Peace and Security Council. He further stated that Ethiopia has been actively engaging member states on regional peace and security matters. According to Nebiat, Ethiopia’s recent bilateral and multilateral diplomatic engagements reflect a proactive, multidimensional foreign policy approach aimed at strengthening strategic partnerships, advancing national development priorities, and reinforcing the country’s voice in regional and global affairs.

Addis Ababa, April 28, 2026 — A high-level consultative forum organized under the theme “Social Development for Nation Building” has commenced in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today. The forum is set to review the fundamental milestones achieved across the social sector over the past few years. The platform facilitates an in-depth discussion and analysis of results recorded particularly over the last eight years in key areas, including education, health, skills-based job creation, and culture, according to the Office of the Prime Minister. “Over the past eight years in particular, the platform has been providing a broad discussion and analysis of results achieved in areas such as education, health, skills-based job creation, culture, arts and sports, as well as women’s and social affairs.”

Addis Ababa, April 28, 2026 —Under the chairmanship of Ethiopia, the African Union Peace and Security Council (AU-PSC) convened on Monday (April 27) to deliberate on the future of Peace Support Operations (PSOs). According to a social media post by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the deliberation focused on the future of PSOs in Africa. The session assessed the measures that need to be taken in light of the evolving international order and the changing peace and security landscape across the continent. In her remarks, Ambassador Hirut Zemene, Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the AU and UN-ECA, commended the significant contributions that African PSOs have made over nearly three decades, noting their deployment across the continent, often under stringent financial and security conditions. She called for regular and sustained discussions on the subject to ensure that PSOs remain effective instruments for peace and stability in Africa, complementing political processes. The Council emphasized the importance of prioritizing preventive diplomacy and strengthening early-warning systems. The meeting concluded with the adoption of key decisions expected to guide Africa’s Peace Support Operations in the coming decades. Ethiopia has entered the final week of its chairmanship of the AU PSC. During the remaining period, it will steer discussions on the joint retreat between the PSC and APRM, as well as consideration of the report on the PSC’s visit to South Sudan later this week. The discussion was graced by El Ghassim Wane, former Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Head of MINUSMA, as well as Parfait Onanga Anyanga, Head of the United Nations Office to the African Union (UNOAU).

Addis Ababa, April 27, 2026--Prime Abiy Ahmed on Monday hosted Daniel Francisco Chapo at the National Palace in Addis Ababa, marking the start of a high-level visit aimed at deepening relations between Ethiopia and Mozambique. During the visit, the two leaders held bilateral talks focused on expanding cooperation across strategic sectors. According to the Ethiopian Prime Minister, the discussions were “fruitful” and signaled the beginning of what he described as a long-term and practical partnership. The meeting also saw the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), intended to provide a framework for collaboration in key areas. While specific sectors were not detailed, both sides indicated that the agreements are expected to strengthen economic and diplomatic ties. In messages shared on social media, PM Abiy emphasized Ethiopia’s approach to international partnerships, highlighting mutual respect and long-term impact as guiding principles. He noted that Ethiopia aims to position itself as more than just a partner, but as a country offering sustained opportunities for growth and transformation. President Chapo’s visit comes amid broader efforts by African nations to enhance intra-continental cooperation, in line with ongoing initiatives to boost regional integration and shared economic development. The Ethiopian government expressed optimism that the visit would yield concrete outcomes and lay the groundwork for continued collaboration between the two countries.

Addis Ababa, April 27, 2026 —As part of his official visit to Ethiopia, President Daniel Francisco Chapoof of Mozambique toured the National Palace Museum, gaining insight into the country’s rich historical and cultural legacy. The visit offered a glimpse into Ethiopia’s long-standing civilization, often regarded as a symbol of independence and continuity in Africa’s history. The museum, which preserves imperial-era artifacts and national heritage, served as a backdrop for reflecting on the country’s past and its evolving role on the continent.   Ethiopian officials describe such engagements as part of a broader effort to showcase the nation’s historical depth while reinforcing its modern diplomatic outlook, according to Office of the Prime Minister. Positioned as the “Land of Origins,” Ethiopia continues to present its heritage as a foundation for building forward-looking partnerships. The tour also carried a symbolic message of continental unity, emphasizing closer ties between Ethiopia and Mozambique.   Leaders from both nations are seeking to translate shared history and identity into practical cooperation and long-term collaboration. President Chapo’s visit is expected to further strengthen bilateral relations, with discussions focused on deepening partnerships and advancing mutual development goals.

Addis Ababa, April 27, 2026 —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Monday officially welcomed Mozambican President Daniel Francisco Chapo to the National Palace, marking the start of a high-level visit aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two African nations. The reception ceremony in Addis Ababa underscored growing diplomatic engagement between Ethiopia and Mozambique, with both sides expected to explore new areas of partnership.   In a message shared on social media, Prime Minister Abiy described Ethiopia as the “Land of Origins,” highlighting its openness to global collaboration and shared progress. “As the Land of Origins, Ethiopia is a place of boundless opportunity, opening her arms to the world and inviting partners to rediscover their shared roots and grow through cooperation,” he said. The Prime Minister emphasized that Ethiopia seeks partnerships built on mutual respect and long-term impact, adding that the country aspires to be “more than a destination” for its partners.   “Through our genuine partnership we affirm that Ethiopia is far more than a destination; it is a second home for all who seek visionary growth and transformation,” he noted. PM Abiy also expressed optimism that President Chapo’s visit would deliver concrete outcomes, strengthening ties and laying the groundwork for sustained collaboration. “I hope your stay will bring productive outcomes, laying a foundation of shared success and enduring friendship,” he added.   The visit comes amid broader efforts by African nations to deepen intra-continental cooperation and advance shared economic and diplomatic priorities.

Addis Ababa, April 27, 2026 —President Daniel Francisco Chapo of Mozambique laid a wreath at the Adwa Victory Memorial on Monday, honoring the heroes of the historic Battle of Adwa. He also toured the site, widely regarded as a symbol of freedom and resistance for Black people worldwide. Earlier in the day, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed officially welcomed President Chapo in Addis Ababa. In a social media post, the Prime Minister emphasized that the visit reflects Ethiopia’s commitment to strengthening meaningful African partnerships.   “This visit underscores Ethiopia’s steadfast commitment to fostering genuine African partnerships aimed at tangible outcomes that can truly transform the lives of people of both nations,” Abiy said. The official welcoming ceremony marks the start of a high-level diplomatic engagement between the two countries.   During the visit, the leaders are expected to hold discussions on key strategic areas of mutual interest, aimed at deepening longstanding ties between Ethiopia and Mozambique.

Addis Ababa, April 27, 2026 — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today officially received President Daniel Francisco Chapo of Mozambique at Bole International Airport. In a statement released on his social media platforms, the Prime Minister noted, "This visit underscores Ethiopia’s steadfast commitment to fostering genuine African partnerships aimed at tangible outcomes that can truly transform the lives of people of both nations." The official welcoming ceremony marks the beginning of a high-level diplomatic engagement focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation. During the visit, the two leaders are expected to hold talks on various strategic areas of mutual interest to enhance the historic ties between Ethiopia and Mozambique.

Addis Ababa, April 26, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, held bilateral talks with his Mozambican counterpart, Maria Manuela dos Santos Lucas, aimed at deepening cooperation between the two nations. During the meeting, Gedion highlighted the longstanding and unique relationship between Ethiopia and Mozambique, noting that it is firmly grounded in the shared ideals of Pan-Africanism.   He emphasized the need to translate this strong political foundation into tangible areas of collaboration that can further reinforce ties between the two countries. On her part, Maria Manuela dos Santos Lucas expressed Mozambique’s strong interest in expanding bilateral relations and underscored her country’s desire to learn from Ethiopia’s development experiences. She also reaffirmed her commitment to working closely with Ethiopia across multiple sectors of mutual interest.   The discussions reflect a shared determination by both nations to elevate their partnership through practical cooperation and continued diplomatic engagement.

Addis Ababa, April 25, 2026 (ENA) —Final preparations are underway for the holding of the National Dialogue Conference, the culmination of the Ethiopian dialogue process, as the agenda-gathering process has been completed, Professor Mesfin Araya, Chief Commissioner of the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission told ENA. The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has opened a new chapter aimed at resolving the differences that have been brewing in Ethiopia for centuries through dialogue and consultations in order to create a generation that believes in the supremacy of ideas. So far, it has successfully carried out an agenda-gathering process that involved community groups in all regions and the two city administrations, as well as the identification of representatives that participate in the National Dialogue Conference. According to Chief Commissioner Mesfin Araya, the national dialogue is laying the foundation for lasting peace and building a strong state. He noted that the dialogue will create opportunity for citizens to reach consensus on major national issues and achieve sustainable development and progress in the social, political and economic spheres. Stressing that resolving differences of opinion in a civilized manner through dialogue is crucial, the Chief Commissioner called on citizens to use the opportunity created to play a constructive role in building peace and development in the country. He recalled that Ethiopians have identified problems in their regions and the country at large during the process and presented them to the Commission. The Chief Commissioner stated that citizens participating in the National Dialogue Conference will represent all sections of society. Since its establishment under Proclamation No. 1265/2021, the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has been carrying out various activities aimed at building consensus on fundamental issues that are not mutually exclusive as a country.

Addis Ababa, April 25, 2026 (ENA) —U.S. envoys have arrived in Pakistan to begin a new round of diplomacy related to the Iran conflict, though Iranian officials indicate there are no immediate plans for direct talks. Representatives Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner traveled to Islamabad, where the White House said they aim to hold an “in-person conversation” with Iranian representatives. It remains unclear whether this would involve direct engagement or indirect communication. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi arrived earlier and met with Asim Munir, highlighting Pakistan’s role as a mediator. Iranian state media reported that Araghchi does not plan to meet U.S. officials directly, and that Pakistan may act as an intermediary to convey positions between the two sides. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the talks are intended to advance efforts toward a possible agreement. She added that Vice President JD Vance, who participated in earlier discussions, is prepared to travel if needed. Diplomatic progress remains uncertain. Iran has said it will not enter direct negotiations while U.S. naval restrictions on its ports remain in place. At the same time, shipping through the Strait of Hormuz has been significantly reduced, affecting global oil and gas flows. European Council President Antonio Costa called for the waterway to be reopened without restrictions, citing its importance to global energy markets. Iran has also indicated that Araghchi will continue consultations in Oman and Russia as part of broader diplomatic efforts. Iranian officials have criticized U.S. and Israeli actions in the conflict, while U.S. officials maintain that negotiations are aimed at de-escalation. In Lebanon, a temporary ceasefire remains in effect following recent fighting. U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed support for expanded talks involving Israel and Lebanon, though internal political divisions persist. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said efforts toward a possible agreement are ongoing, while Hezbollah-linked figures have opposed direct negotiations. Despite the ceasefire, reports of continued strikes and casualties in southern Lebanon underscore the fragility of the situation. Civilians in affected areas continue to face significant hardship as a result of the conflict.

Addis Ababa, April 24, 2026 (ENA) —Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timothewos held talks in Oslo with his Norwegian counterpart Espen Barth Eide, focusing on strengthening bilateral cooperation between Ethiopia and Norway. The meeting took place as part of Gedion’s official visit to Scandinavian countries, during which he emphasized the broad potential for expanding cooperation across multiple sectors. He highlighted the longstanding relationship between the two countries and stressed the need to deepen ties, particularly in trade, investment, and environmental protection. Espen Barth Eide noted that several Norwegian companies are interested in exploring investment opportunities in Ethiopia, signaling growing private sector engagement. He also affirmed Norway’s support for Ethiopia as it prepares to host COP32. During his stay in Oslo, Gedion also held discussions with Norway’s Minister of International Development, the Minister of Climate and Environment, senior officials from the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation, the leadership of Norway’s investment fund, and private sector representatives. The talks focused on advancing cooperation in key areas of mutual interest, including development financing, climate action, and investment.

Addis Ababa, April 24, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held bilateral talks this evening with South Sudan’s President Salva Kiir Mayardit, focusing on key issues shaping the region and the two countries’ shared future. Prime Minister Abiy warmly welcomed President Kiir at the National Palace during the latter’s two-day official visit to Ethiopia.   Following their discussions, the two leaders emphasized the importance of strengthening economic cooperation. They explored ways to boost investment, expand trade, and create broader opportunities through enhanced partnerships.   The leaders also exchanged updates on the progress of their respective countries, reaffirming their commitment to continued collaboration on mutual priorities.   “President Salva Kiir and I held a bilateral discussion this evening on the issues shaping our region and shared future. We prioritized economic cooperation, exploring ways to boost investment and expand opportunities through stronger partnerships and also exchanged updates on our countries’ progress,” the Prime Minister wrote on X page.