Addis Ababa, May 21, 2026 —Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced that the country is intensifying its bilateral and multilateral diplomatic engagements aimed at strengthening international partnerships and safeguarding the interests of Ethiopian citizens abroad. In a press briefing he gave today, Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Ambassador Nebiat Getachew said Ethiopia has undertaken a series of high-level diplomatic initiatives focused on enhancing political, economic and strategic relations with key global partners. As part of these efforts, a delegation led by Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos held extensive discussions in Washington, D.C., centered on deepening Ethiopia–United States relations. According to Ambassador Nebiat, Ethiopia and the United States signed a Bilateral Structured Dialogue (BSD) Framework Agreement, formalized by Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Political Affairs Alison Hooker.   The agreement establishes cooperation in three major areas: economic prosperity, trade and investment; defense and security collaboration; and regional peace and stability. The spokesperson added that Minister Gedion also held discussions with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on ways to further strengthen bilateral relations and enhance regional cooperation. In addition, the Ethiopian delegation met with experts at the Hudson Institute, where they presented Ethiopia’s economic outlook, geopolitical developments in the Horn of Africa, and the country’s approach to regional and international cooperation. Ambassador Nebiat reiterated Ethiopia’s longstanding position on access to the sea, emphasizing that the country remains committed to pursuing sea access through peaceful diplomatic engagement. On the multilateral front, the spokesperson noted that Ethiopia marked the 80th anniversary of the United Nations by unveiling a commemorative stamp collection under the theme “Living Together in Peace.” The collection was jointly launched by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres. He explained that the stamps commemorate significant milestones in Ethiopia–UN relations, including Ethiopia’s signing of the UN Charter in 1945, its participation in peacekeeping missions in the Congo, and the hosting of the first UN Security Council meeting held on African soil. According to the spokesperson, the initiative reflects Ethiopia’s longstanding commitment to multilateral diplomacy, collective security, and global peace efforts. Regarding relations with France, the spokesperson stated that the recent visit by French President Emmanuel Macron further reinforced bilateral ties between the two countries. He noted that the visit resulted in agreements focused on renewable, sustainable, and integrated energy cooperation, particularly in geothermal energy development. On Ethiopia’s engagement with BRICS, Ambassador Nebiat said Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos participated in the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held in India under the theme: “Building Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”   During the meeting, Ethiopia emphasized the importance of coordinated multilateral diplomacy and called for a fair and inclusive international system that equally serves the interests of all countries. On the sidelines of the forum, Minister Gedion held talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, where both sides reaffirmed their longstanding relations and commitment to strengthening cooperation across various sectors. Highlighting Ethiopia’s citizen-centered diplomacy, Ambassador Nebiat said Ethiopian officials also engaged with South African authorities regarding the wellbeing and protection of Ethiopian nationals living in South Africa. He stated that Minister Gedion Timothewos met with South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola on the margins of the BRICS meeting in New Delhi, where both sides agreed to work jointly to address challenges facing Ethiopians residing in South Africa. The spokesperson added that State Minister Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye also held discussions with South Africa’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Nonceba Losi. During the talks, both parties stressed the importance of ensuring the safety and protection of Ethiopian citizens. The South African side condemned recent attacks against Ethiopians, confirmed that investigations are underway, and agreed to strengthen institutional cooperation, including through the establishment of a joint follow-up mechanism.   Ambassador Nebiat further disclosed that Foreign Minister Gedion also held discussions with Saudi Arabia’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Waleed Elkhereiji. The talks focused on expanding legal employment opportunities and enhancing the safety, welfare, and protection of Ethiopian nationals residing in Saudi Arabia.

Addis Ababa, May 20, 2026 — The process of the forthcoming 7th General Election not only strengthens the foundation of state building but also serves as a practical exercise in building a democratic system, Government Communication Service (GCS) State Minister, Tesfahun Gobezay, said. A consultative forum on examining the pivotal role of the media in ensuring the success of democratic election was convened in the city of Adama today. Organized through a collaborative initiative between the Ethiopian News Agency and the Civil Society Organizations Authority, the forum was held under the theme, "The Role of Media for the Success of Democratic Election." Addressing the forum, the State Minister said Ethiopia's development and prosperity can only be achieved through collective efforts. According to him, an election is a democratic exercise, undertaken to realize national interest. For him, the election process in Ethiopia is a manifestation of national interest, and this year’s general election has been progressing in a successful manner. Civil Society Organizations Authority Deputy Director-General Fasikaw Molla said the role of CSOs in building a democratic culture is immense. Accordingly, the organizations have been working with commitment for the success of this year’s general election, he added. The Deputy Director-General stated that CSOs are actively serving impartially and mobilizing the community to ensure that the overall election process is successful. Ethiopian Media Authority Deputy Director-General, Gizaw Tesfaye, said the authority is providing support and supervision to ensure that the media operate in accordance with the law, commending the media for their encouraging roles so far.  

Addis Ababa, May 20, 2026 — The Ministry of Women and Social Affairs has announced that an enabling environment has been established to ensure the full participation of all segments of society in Ethiopia’s upcoming Seventh General Election. According to the schedule set by the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE), the election will take place on June 1, 2026, with only a few days remaining before voting begins. State Minister for Women and Social Affairs, Huria Ali, told ENA that tailored conditions have been put in place to guarantee the political participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities throughout the electoral process. "Efforts have been made to make polling stations physically accessible for persons with disabilities and to encourage the active engagement of all sections of society," Huria explained. She emphasized that the record-high voter registration numbers demonstrate a growing public commitment to the country’s national political agenda. According to the state minister, the election safeguards citizens' constitutional rights to both elect and be elected while fostering equal opportunities for all. To guarantee a democratic, peaceful, and transparent election, the government is implementing various oversight mechanisms alongside robust public awareness campaigns. Currently, the 47 competing political parties are actively presenting their policy alternatives to the public through various media platforms. Huria concluded by urging the public to turn out in high numbers on election day, noting that active citizen engagement is vital to ensuring a free, fair, and democratic outcome. She called on voters to confidently cast their ballots for the political party they believe will best serve the country's future.

Addis Ababa, May 20, 2026 — The registration of more than 50.5 million voters for Ethiopia’s upcoming general election represents a historic milestone in the country’s democratic journey and is a clear indication of the growing political awareness among citizens, Ethiopian Institute for Public Diplomacy (EIPD) Head and President, Yassin Ahmed, said. The Ethiopian Institute for Public Diplomacy (EIPD) is a civic, non-governmental organization registered and established in Sweden by Ethiopians in the diaspora. In an exclusive interview with the Ethiopian News Agency, Yassin noted that the unprecedented voter registration turnout reflects a significant shift in public engagement, highlighting citizens’ increasing belief in democratic participation and peaceful political transformation through the ballot box. According to him, the large number of registered voters demonstrates that Ethiopians have moved beyond disengagement, embracing elections as the primary mechanism for shaping the nation’s future. “In my assessment, this huge number reflects the citizen’s transcendence of the culture of marginalization and their firm belief that the ballot box is the only peaceful mechanism for change and building the future,” the President said. The high voter registration rate also reflects the success of the National Board of Election in creating a competitive electoral environment while expanding political representation for all segments of society, he added. Yasin stated that these efforts have contributed to strengthening public trust in the integrity and transparency of the electoral process. Moreover, he described the country’s digital electoral reform as an unprecedented qualitative leap in democratic transition and institutional modernization. The successful digital registration of more than five million voters through the Merchaye application is a landmark achievement for Ethiopia, he noted. The President further explained that Ethiopia’s transition toward digital electoral system has enabled the country to move beyond paper-based mechanisms that were often associated with procedural inefficiencies and logistical challenges. Yasin added that the digital transformation is expected to reduce operational costs, overcome geographical barriers, and improve the efficiency of election administration compared to conventional methods. The Merchaye platform and its integrated digital system are likely to encourage broader participation from the younger generation and other segments of society by motivating them to play a more active role in national decision-making and the country’s future development. Ethiopia will hold the 7th General Election next month, a key national event that is expected to strengthen institutional stability and expand opportunities for inclusive public participation across the nation.

Addis Ababa, May 20, 2026--Ethiopia’s Minister of Government Communication Service, Enatalem Melese said this year’s general election demonstrated strong citizen participation and growing democratic maturity in the country. She made the remarks during a panel discussion held in Adama city under the theme: “The Role of Media for the Success of a Democratic Election.”   The forum was organized by Ethiopian News Agency in collaboration with the Civil Society Organizations Authority, it was learned. In her opening address, Minister Enatalem described the forum as an important platform for dialogue on national issues. She noted that elections serve as a practical expression of the public’s decision-making power and political experience. According to the minister, the 7th general election recorded an unprecedented level of public participation compared to previous elections in Ethiopia’s history. “The election process shows that democratic practice is continuing to grow in Ethiopia,” she said, emphasizing that the media must further strengthen its role in ensuring the successful completion of the electoral process. Speaking at the event, Seife Deribe, CEO of the Ethiopian News Agency, stressed that the media has a crucial responsibility in promoting a peaceful and democratic election environment.   He added that media institutions are working intensively to support the success of this year’s election process. “We are at a stage where stronger collaboration and collective effort are essential for success,” he said.   The forum brought together senior government officials, media leaders, communication professionals, and other stakeholders to discuss the role of the media in strengthening democratic elections in Ethiopia.

Addis Ababa, May 20, 2026 — A consultative forum dedicated to examining the pivotal role of the media in ensuring the success of democratic election is taking place in the city of Adama. Organized through a collaborative initiative between the Ethiopian News Agency and the Civil Society Organizations Authority, the national forum is being held under the theme, "The Role of Media for the Success of Democratic Election." The gathering has brought together stakeholders, including Government Communication Service Minister Enatalem Melesse, Government Communication Service State Minister Tesfahun Gobezay, Ethiopian News Agency Chief Executive Officer Seife Deribe, and Civil Society Organizations Authority Deputy Director-General Fasikaw Molla. Media heads and journalists are also in attendance. The forum is designed to reinforce the collective understanding that cultivating democratic and fair election remains a shared responsibility among all stakeholders. It was also noted that the role of the media and civil society organizations is very crucial in this process.

  Addis Ababa, May 20, 2026 —Ethiopia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening its longstanding contribution to regional peace and security, according to Chief of General Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), Field Marshal Berhanu Jula. The remarks were made during a meeting held with outgoing Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) Director General Brigadier General Paul Kahuria Njema and newly appointed Director General Brigadier General Ronald Rwivanga of Rwanda. The discussions were also attended by Ethiopia’s Minister of Defense, Engineer Aisha Mohammed. During the meeting, Brigadier General Paul Kahuria Njema presented a summary of the Eastern Africa Standby Force’s activities and achievements during his tenure. Reflecting on the evolving peace and security situation across East Africa, he praised Ethiopia for its unwavering commitment, strong support, and leading role in addressing regional security challenges. Field Marshal Berhanu Jula emphasized that the Eastern Africa Standby Force was established to promote solidarity, cooperation, and political unity among member states. He highlighted Ethiopia’s significant contributions to peacekeeping and security efforts across Africa, including through its active participation in the EASF. He further stated that Ethiopia remains committed to deepening its engagement in regional security initiatives and strengthening its role within the standby force in the years ahead. The Field Marshal also extended his best wishes to Brigadier General Ronald Rwivanga as he assumes leadership of the organization. On her part, Minister of Defense Engineer, Aisha Mohammed underscored Ethiopia’s continued efforts to help resolve regional peace and security challenges. She noted that Ethiopia will further enhance its contributions to global, continental, and regional peace initiatives through close coordination and cooperation with partner countries and stakeholders. The minister also expressed appreciation to the outgoing Director General for his service and leadership, noting that guiding a regional security institution while balancing the interests of member states and coordinating with international partners requires exceptional dedication and responsibility.

Addis Ababa, May 19, 2026 —The High-level Horn Inter-Elite Dialogue held in Jigjiga, Ethiopia, has declared the establishment of a permanent regional platform aimed at strengthening dialogue, coordination, peace building, and regional cooperation across the Horn of Africa. The declaration was made yesterday at the forum held under the theme “Strengthening Regional Agency for Durable Peace in the Horn of Africa.” According to the declaration, founding partners and participating institutions recognized the urgent need for a trusted, practical, and inclusive mechanism to address the growing political, security, and socio-economic challenges facing the region. The participants emphasized that the complex challenges confronting the Horn of Africa cannot be solved through fragmented efforts, but instead require collective action based on regular dialogue, shared analysis, institutional coordination, public engagement, and strong community ownership.   The newly established platform is intended to serve as a permanent forum for regional dialogue, research, knowledge development, and peace building initiatives. It will remain open to additional institutions and partners willing to support its objectives, respect its principles, and contribute constructively to its mission, it was learned. As part of the declaration, the participants agreed that the headquarters and secretariat of the forum will be based in Jigjiga, Ethiopia, reinforcing the city’s growing role as a center for regional diplomacy and cooperation in the Horn of Africa. The declaration also underscored the importance of inclusive participation, stronger regional coordination, and the protection of citizens across the region. The participants stressed the need to draw on indigenous knowledge systems and locally grounded wisdom to address regional problems and build sustainable peace. “We commit ourselves to work together in good faith, mutual respect, professionalism, and shared responsibility,” the declaration stated, reaffirming a collective commitment to strengthening the newly established platform as a permanent mechanism for regional engagement. Through the initiative, member institutions aim to support a more peaceful, coordinated, resilient, and self-directed Horn of Africa capable of addressing its own challenges through locally driven solutions and regional solidarity.   Participants of the Horn Inter-Elite Dialogue, which brought together senior officials and experts, stressed that while the Horn occupies one of the world’s most strategically important locations along major global maritime trade routes, the region continues to face fragmented cooperation, persistent insecurity, and growing external geopolitical competition. They noted that regional instability, climate shocks, migration pressures, economic fragmentation, and competition over strategic corridors linked to the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden continue to challenge long-term development efforts.   The established platform is said to be a forum for advancing peace building, trade integration, infrastructure coordination, and stronger regional cooperation across the Horn of Africa.

Addis Ababa, May 19, 2026 —IGAD is making preparations to observe Ethiopia’s General Election scheduled to take place on June 1, 2026, according to Commander Abebe Muluneh, IGAD Peace and Security Division Director. "We are preparing to observe the election in Ethiopia by deploying experts from the region," he told ENA, adding that experts from Djibouti, Somalia, Kenya, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda are invited to observe the election. The Director stated that the regional bloc, invited by the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, is preparing to deploy the experts from neighboring countries. The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) mission aims to assess whether the voting process meets regional and international standards, it was learned. According to Commander Abebe, this will help the government to conduct a fair and free election. "We, of course, support fair and free election in general; and we promote the democratization and good governance in our region, including Ethiopia,” he elaborated. The Director stated that the IGAD’s observers will monitor polling-day procedures and the counting of ballots, providing an independent appraisal. “For that reason, we are in a process just to have the election observation mission here in Ethiopia,” Commander Abebe said, underscoring the regional body’s commitment to supporting transparent and credible elections. Ethiopia’s upcoming vote is viewed as a critical milestone in the country’s democratic transition, with domestic and international attentions on the conduct and credibility of the process.   Meanwhile, the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) announced that more than 50 million citizens have registered to vote in the upcoming national election, despite financial and operational challenges reported in some parts of the country. According to NEBE Chairperson Melatwork Hailu, a total of 50,514,155 voters have been registered. More than 45.1 million voters were registered manually, while the remaining voters completed digital registration. The voter roll includes over 27.3 million men and more than 23.1 million women, the Board disclosed, noting that the voter registration period officially closed today. Election preparations are currently underway nationwide, with approximately 195,316 personnel deployed to support the process. Officials said around 70,000 election workers have so far received payments totaling one billion Birr.   NEBE also reported that 48,829 polling stations have been established across the country, including 46,352 main polling stations, 1,500 sub-stations, and 2,477 additional voting sites. A total of 614 constituencies are expected to participate in the election. The Board further disclosed that 81 million Birr has been distributed to 36 political parties to support their participation in the election process.   The June 1 vote is expected to serve as an important test of Ethiopia’s democratic reforms, with election observers, political parties, civil society organizations, and international partners closely watching the conduct, inclusiveness, and credibility of the electoral process.

Addis Ababa, May 19, 2026--Ethiopia is establishing a National Multi-Agency Platform to counter hate speech and disinformation, marking a significant step toward strengthening social cohesion, safeguarding democratic processes, and enhancing regional peace across the Horn of Africa. The initiative, spearheaded by the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and its Conflict Early Warning and Response Mechanism, CEWARN, brings together government institutions, civil society organizations, media representatives, technical experts, and international partners to build a coordinated national response against the growing spread of harmful online narratives. The two-day workshop, held in Addis Ababa from May 18–19, 2026, focuses on strengthening early warning systems, improving institutional coordination, and enhancing rapid response mechanisms to address hate speech and disinformation, particularly during election and post-election periods.   The initiative comes at a critical time for Ethiopia and the wider Horn of Africa, where expanding digital connectivity, increased social media use, and emerging AI technologies are rapidly reshaping the region’s information landscape. Opening the workshop, Fitsum Girma described the platform as both a national necessity and a shared regional responsibility. He said Ethiopia is committed to taking a leading role in confronting the dangers posed by manipulated information and harmful digital content across the region. “By openly acknowledging the grave national and regional challenges posed by hate speech and disinformation, we are taking a courageous step toward cleansing our shared information ecosystem and safeguarding peace, stability, and social cohesion for future generations,” he stated.   Fitsum warned that toxic narratives are spreading “with alarming speed and scale,” aggravating divisions, inciting violence, and weakening trust in democratic institutions. He also expressed concern over the growing misuse of advanced technologies, including AI-powered voice cloning and fabricated digital content. According to him, those trends are increasingly being used to manipulate public opinion and create confusion. “These manipulative tactics are already actively undermining public trust in authentic information sources and intensifying the breakdown of social order,” he cautioned. Participants at the workshop emphasized that misinformation has evolved beyond a media challenge and is now increasingly viewed as a serious governance, peacebuilding, and security concern with cross-border implications. Director of IGAD CEWARN, Camlus Omogo noted that the digital age has blurred the line between truth and fabrication, weakening the effectiveness of traditional early warning systems across the region.   According to him, the newly established mechanism will enable stakeholders to jointly monitor risks, analyze emerging trends, exchange information, and coordinate timely responses. “The cross-border nature of digital information flows requires strong coordination between local, national, and regional systems,” he said. Representing the United Nations Office of the Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Chieck Conde described efforts to counter disinformation as fundamentally linked to peacebuilding and conflict prevention. Meanwhile, Director of IGAD’s Peace and Security Division, Commander Abebe Muluneh stressed that the platform is designed to prevent harmful narratives from escalating into violence and instability. He also underscored the importance of responsible journalism in preserving peace and strengthening public confidence. “Professional, independent, ethical, and objective media is crucial for peace,” he said.   The establishment of the platform is expected to strengthen collaboration among national, regional, and international actors while improving Ethiopia’s capacity to detect, monitor, and respond to emerging digital threats before they escalate into wider social or political crises.

Addis Ababa, May 19, 2026 —The Ethiopian Civil Society Organizations Forum (ECSF) affirmed that it has been intensifying its nationwide efforts to help ensure the seventh general election peaceful, transparent, democratic and credible. Ethiopia is preparing to hold its seventh general election on June 1, 2026, a vote regarded as an important step in the country’s ongoing democratic transition. The upcoming vote also follows years of political reform aimed at broadening democratic participation, strengthening electoral institutions, and enhancing civic engagement. Increased political competition and wider public debate in recent years have further heightened the importance of public trust in the electoral process. Speaking exclusively to ENA, ECSF Executive Director, Getnet Kaba said credible institutions and reliable information are fundamental to ensuring confidence in the election. “One of the ways we can make the election credible is by having credible institutions,” he said. “If there is no credible institution, there is no credible information, and people may not trust the election process.” The Forum is currently conducting civic education and election observation activities in coordination with the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) to promote transparency and encourage informed public participation. Getnet said the organization is training long term observers to monitor the electoral process beginning from voter registration, while additional civil society representatives will be deployed to polling stations on election day to observe voting procedures and assess the overall electoral environment.   He stressed that voter education remains a key priority, noting that citizens must fully understand both their rights and responsibilities before casting ballots. “A ballot is not simply a piece of paper. It is an instrument that determines the future destiny of citizens,” he said. The Executive Director also urged voters to carefully evaluate political parties and candidates, emphasizing that elected representatives will govern the country and enact laws on behalf of citizens over the next five years. Political parties competing in the election have been campaigning through public rallies, televised debates, digital platforms, and community outreach programs. To help safeguard the process, the Forum is also strengthening efforts to combat misinformation and false narratives circulating during the election period, an issue increasingly affecting elections worldwide through social media manipulation and fabricated reports. “Misinformation is one critical thing,” Getnet said, urging citizens to critically assess the source, intent, and credibility of information shared through various channels. He explained that raising public awareness remains the most effective response to misinformation. Encouraging citizens to question where information originates, who is behind it, and what purpose it serves can help communities resist harmful falsehoods. ECSF is also coordinating media monitoring and fact checking initiatives aimed at improving public awareness and protecting the integrity of the electoral process. In addition, Getnet disclosed that a new mechanism has been introduced to document and monitor promises made by political parties during the campaign period. The initiative is expected to strengthen political accountability by enabling citizens to evaluate whether parties fulfill their commitments and helping voters make informed decisions in future elections. According to the Executive Director, the Forum remains politically neutral and operates solely in the public interest. “We do not represent the government, and we will not represent any political party. We are just mediating and working for the public benefit,” he said.

Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 —Senior government officials, policymakers, and regional experts from across the Horn of Africa have called for deeper regional integration, stronger cooperation, and sustainable peace during a high-level dialogue hosted in eastern Ethiopia. The Horn Inter-Elite Dialogue, held in Jigjiga, brought together senior officials from across the region to discuss strategic autonomy, regional integration, and long-term peacebuilding in the Horn of Africa. The forum was jointly organized by the Institute of Foreign Affairs, the Centre for Responsible and Peaceful Politics, and the Somali Region administration under the theme “Strengthening Regional Agency for Strategic Autonomy and Durable Peace in the Horn of Africa.”   Participants stressed that while the Horn occupies one of the world’s most strategically important locations along major global maritime trade routes, the region continues to face fragmented cooperation, persistent insecurity, and growing external geopolitical competition. Officials noted that regional instability, climate shocks, migration pressures, economic fragmentation, and competition over strategic corridors linked to the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden continue to challenge long-term development efforts. Opening the forum, Director General of the Institute of Foreign Affairs Jafar Bedru said countries in the Horn must address internal political divisions that often create opportunities for external actors to influence regional affairs.   He stressed the importance of turning calls for African-led solutions into practical regional cooperation mechanisms. Somalia’s Minister of Commerce and Industry Jamaal Mohamed said the Horn is too often defined by conflict narratives, despite its long history of economic and social interconnectedness. He noted that communities across borders have historically maintained strong trade and cultural ties, while political institutions have struggled to match that level of integration. On his part, Djibouti’s Minister of Economy and Finance Ilyas Moussa Dawaleh emphasized that engagement with global powers should be approached through stronger regional coordination rather than isolated national interests.   From Kenya, Garissa Governor Nathif Jama Adam highlighted how border communities face the direct consequences of displacement, insecurity, migration, climate pressures, and trade disruptions. He called for stronger regional coordination through the Intergovernmental Authority on Development to address cross-border challenges.   Hosting the forum, Chief Administrator of Somali Region Mustafe Mohamed Omar said Jigjiga’s location reflects its growing importance as a regional gateway connecting Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti, and broader regional communities. He said the Horn’s challenges are increasingly transnational, while policy responses often remain confined within national borders.   From Ethiopia’s perspective, the forum reflects the country’s broader diplomatic push under Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's leadership to promote regional dialogue, trade connectivity, infrastructure cooperation, and African-led solutions to shared regional challenges. Officials said the Jigjiga Forum is expected to become an annual platform for advancing peacebuilding, trade integration, infrastructure coordination, and stronger regional cooperation across the Horn of Africa.

Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 —Ethiopia has renewed its call for deeper regional economic integration as a cornerstone for achieving lasting peace in the Horn of Africa, with Trade and Regional Integration Minister Kassahun Gofe stressing that durable stability can only be achieved through stronger homegrown solutions. Speaking at the Horn Inter-Elite Dialogue, also known as the Jigjiga Forum, in Ethiopia’s Somali regional capital, Jigjiga, Minister Kassahun said countries in the Horn must take the lead in addressing their own challenges rather than relying on external actors or fragmented national responses. He noted that the region continues to face interconnected pressures, including geopolitical competition, cross-border insecurity, weak institutional coordination, and limited economic integration—challenges he said require collective regional action.   According to the minister, growing global competition for influence in the Horn is reshaping regional alignments and increasingly affecting how countries pursue their strategic and development priorities. He warned that persistent cross-border security threats, including conflict spillovers, violent extremism, illicit trade, and illegal financial flows, continue to undermine stability and disrupt economic activities across the region. Kassahun said weak institutional coordination among regional states has also limited progress toward meaningful trade cooperation and broader economic integration. “Trade and economic integration along shared borders serve as a vital anchor for regional stability,” he said. He further added that that stronger cross-border commerce can transform historically fragile border areas into “resilient corridors of mutual prosperity.” The minister highlighted several opportunities to accelerate regional integration, including the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, digital market development, and climate resilience initiatives. He said platforms such as the Jigjiga Forum provide an important avenue for building trust and creating secure trade environments that can serve as the structural foundation for long-term peace and development.   Kassahun also linked Ethiopia’s regional approach to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s Medemer philosophy, which emphasizes unity through diversity, cooperation, and collective progress. He said Ethiopia’s ongoing Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda is designed to strengthen private sector-led growth, improve macroeconomic stability, and boost productivity while positioning the country as a key driver of regional integration. As part of that strategy, Ethiopia is modernizing logistics systems, expanding road and railway infrastructure, improving port access, and strengthening transport corridors with neighboring countries. The minister added that Ethiopia is also expanding electricity exports to neighboring states as part of broader efforts to improve regional connectivity and support shared economic growth.   On trade policy, he said Ethiopia is working to reduce tariff and non-tariff barriers, harmonize regional standards, and accelerate implementation of the AfCFTA to expand intra-African trade. Kassahun reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to advancing a shared regional vision built on cooperation, trade, and peace, stressing that stability in the Horn benefits all countries in the region. “When the region is peaceful, all countries benefit,” he said.

Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 —Speaker of Ethiopia’s House of People’s Representatives (HPR) Tagesse Chafo has called on countries in the Horn of Africa to take greater ownership of their shared future and shift from recurring crises toward durable peace and regional stability. Speaking at the opening of the Horn Inter-Elite Dialogue, also known as the Jigjiga Forum, in Jigjiga on Monday, Tagesse urged regional leaders to pursue homegrown solutions to common challenges and deepen cooperation across the Horn. The high-level forum brought together senior government officials, policymakers, and experts from Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti, and Kenya, alongside representatives from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development. “The future of the Horn of Africa should not be written in foreign capitals, by international commentators, or during emergency meetings convened after crises erupt,” Tagesse said. “It must be shaped here by the people of the region.”   He described Jigjiga as a symbol of the Horn’s deep historical, cultural, and economic interconnectedness, noting that the city has long served as a hub for cross-border movement, trade, and resilience among communities in the region. In a pointed critique of external influence, the Speaker said the region’s narrative has too often been shaped by outside actors rather than by the countries directly affected by its challenges. Tagesse stressed the importance of strengthening what he termed “regional agency,” the collective ability of Horn nations to think strategically, cooperate effectively, and take responsibility for their common future while remaining open to partnerships that respect regional priorities. He emphasized that international engagement should complement, rather than undermine, the sovereignty and dignity of countries in the Horn. The Speaker also highlighted the forum’s central themes, external security dynamics, cross-border community resilience, and trade integration —arguing that stronger economic ties and people-to-people connections are critical to achieving sustainable peace.   He urged participants to move beyond diagnosing regional problems and leave the forum with concrete commitments aimed at addressing long-standing challenges. Tagesse also linked his remarks to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s broader regional diplomacy agenda, which promotes dialogue, regional integration, and African-led solutions to the Horn of Africa’s complex challenges. He expressed confidence that sustained dialogue, even when difficult, can help build trust and create the political consensus needed to secure lasting peace across the region.

Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 —Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos on Monday held talks with Saudi Arabia’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Waleed Elkhereiji, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and addressing regional issues of mutual concern. During the meeting, Minister Gedion said Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia share longstanding historical ties built on deep people-to-people relations and growing strategic cooperation. He noted that the close connection between the two nations has enabled them to maintain aligned positions on several issues of common interest and stressed the need to further deepen bilateral cooperation for the mutual benefit of both countries.   The foreign minister also emphasized the importance of protecting the welfare of Ethiopian citizens living and working in Saudi Arabia, calling for expanded legal employment opportunities for Ethiopian workers through safer and more regulated labor migration channels. For his part, Vice Minister Waleed Elkhereiji reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to its longstanding relationship with Ethiopia and acknowledged the importance of legal labor migration in ensuring safe and sustainable employment opportunities for Ethiopian nationals. Beyond bilateral matters, the two officials also exchanged views on regional peace and security developments, emphasizing that dialogue remains the most effective path toward resolving conflicts and promoting political stability across the region.   The meeting reflects growing diplomatic engagement between Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia as both nations seek to expand cooperation on economic, labor, and regional security issues.

Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 —Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, on Monday bid farewell to Ethiopia’s Permanent Representative to the African Union, Hirut Zemene, following the completion of her diplomatic tenure. During the meeting, the AU Commission Chairperson commended Ambassador Hirut for her active and constructive contribution to the work of the continental body and praised Ethiopia’s continued commitment to promoting peace, regional integration, and Africa’s broader development agenda.   He also acknowledged Ethiopia’s longstanding role in advancing continental priorities and strengthening multilateral cooperation through the African Union. Ambassador Hirut, in turn, expressed appreciation for the Chairperson’s leadership and reaffirmed Ethiopia’s continued support for the goals and strategic priorities of the African Union.   The two officials also exchanged views on key continental development priorities, including the growing role of the private sector in driving Africa’s economic transformation and long-term growth. Concluding the meeting, Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf wished Ambassador Hirut success in her future endeavors and reiterated his commitment to working closely with Ethiopia and her successor in advancing the shared aspirations of the African continent.

Addis Ababa, May 18, 2026 —A high-level Inter-Elite Dialogue aimed at strengthening peace, security, and regional cooperation across the Horn of Africa opened today in Jigjiga, Somali region of Ethiopia, bringing together senior political leaders, policymakers, diplomats, and security officials from across the region. The two-day forum, held under the theme “Strengthening Regional Agency for Durable Peace in the Horn of Africa,” is jointly organized by the Institute of Foreign Affairs, the Centre for Responsible and Peaceful Politics, the Hankaal Institute, and the Somali Region administration. The forum has convened senior officials and delegates from Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, and Djibouti amid growing calls for regional-led solutions to persistent security and political challenges in the Horn of Africa.   Speaking at the opening session, officials emphasized the importance of strengthening regional dialogue and cooperation at a time when the Horn remains central to global geopolitical competition due to its strategic maritime routes, security significance, and growing economic potential. They noted that the forum provides an important platform for regional elites to coordinate efforts, exchange perspectives on shared challenges, and build trust among neighboring states. Organizers said the initiative reflects Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s Medemer philosophy, which promotes synergy, cooperation, and collective progress. Ethiopian officials attending the forum include Speaker of the House of People’s Representatives Tagesse Chafo, Speaker of the House of Federation Agegnehu Teshager, Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, Director General of the National Intelligence and Security Service Redwan Hussien, Prime Minister’s Advisor on East African Affairs Getachew Reda, Minister of Peace Mohamed Idris, and State Minister of Foreign Affairs Birhanu Tsegaye.   Also in attendance is Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu, alongside regional delegates from neighboring countries. Discussions during the two-day event are expected to focus on conflict prevention, maritime security, trade and connectivity, fragile political transitions, and the broader geopolitical dynamics shaping the Horn of Africa. Analysts say the dialogue carries both regional and international significance, as the Horn continues to attract growing interest from global powers competing for influence in one of the world’s most strategically important regions.   Participants stressed that durable peace and development can only be achieved through stronger regional integration and what many described as “Horn solutions to Horn problems.”

By Staff Writer Addis Ababa, May 17, 2026 —Ethiopia experienced a defining week marked by major economic breakthroughs, diplomatic victories, and renewed momentum toward national transformation. From industrial expansion and export growth to high-level global diplomacy and domestic peacebuilding efforts, the country demonstrated its growing ability to balance internal development with an increasingly influential international presence. Guided by the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the nation has boldly asserted its position as both the economic engine and the diplomatic anchor of the region. Through a sophisticated blend of high-level industrial infrastructure commissions, historic multilateral diplomacy, and surging macroeconomic performance, Addis Ababa continues to aggressively turn its grand visions into concrete, historical realities. Industrialization and Job Creation In a Victory for the nation’s manufacturing sector, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed officially inaugurated the first phase of the ultra-modern Gelan Gura Industrial Park in Addis Ababa.     Executed under the high-profile “Made in Ethiopia” national campaign, the inauguration of this state-of-the-art facility marks a significant milestone in scaling up local production capacity, resolving industrial bottlenecks, and creating crucial market linkages. Prime Minister Abiy underscored that the development of such industrial hubs is pivotal to achieving economic independence, generating extensive employment opportunities, and fostering innovation. Developed on 43 hectares of the park's total 93.9 hectares, the facility carries profound hope for the capital's medium and large-scale manufacturers while unlocking vital employment opportunities for thousands of organized, formerly unemployed youth. The Prime Minister emphasized that development initiatives must uplift local farmers, the underserved, and the vulnerable, noting that meaningful progress cannot be achieved if farmers are reduced to mere guards on their own land. He called upon all regional states to draw inspiration from the Gelan Gura model and establish similar inclusive industrial parks tailored for youth and farmers. By producing import-substituting goods—ranging from water pumps and blocks to animal feed—the specialized manufacturing incubator will create a direct and efficient commercial link between producers and consumers, driving the country's industrial and economic transformation. Strengthening Multilateral Diplomacy Ethiopia’s diplomatic influence was prominently displayed during the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of Ethiopia’s relationship with the United Nations. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed joined António Guterres at the historic National Palace to mark the milestone and unveil a special four-stamp commemorative collection themed “To Live Together in Peace,” which will be distributed globally through the Universal Postal Union. During the event, Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that Ethiopia’s partnership with the United Nations is built on a shared history and common future. He also called for urgent reforms to global institutions, particularly the United Nations Security Council, arguing that global governance structures must better reflect Africa’s growing role in international affairs.   At the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, co-hosted by William Ruto and Emmanuel Macron, Prime Minister Abiy highlighted Ethiopia’s expanding role in green industrialization and clean energy development. He reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to sustainable industrial growth and emphasized the country’s contribution to Africa’s broader energy transition agenda. Ethiopia also strengthened relations with the United States as Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos held talks with Marco Rubio focused on trade, investment, security cooperation, and regional peace. The discussions followed the signing of the Bilateral Structured Dialogue Framework in Washington, D.C., signaling renewed momentum in relations between the two countries. In addition, Ethiopia used its platform at BRICS meetings to advocate for reforms to global financial institutions and governance systems that would provide African nations with stronger representation in global decision-making.   Expanding Strategic Partnerships Ethiopia’s diplomatic momentum continued with the visit of French President Emmanuel Macron, who was welcomed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed at the National Palace. The two leaders toured the Ethiopia Science Museum and explored opportunities for future collaboration in innovation, science, and technology. Their meeting produced a major outcome in the form of a €54.6 million loan agreement that will support Ethiopia’s Renewable, Integrated, Sustainable Energy and Digitalization Program, further advancing the country’s green energy and digital transformation efforts.   Macroeconomic Growth The week brought extraordinary news for Ethiopia's macroeconomic performance, climate-resilient urban planning, and agricultural progress. The Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration announced that Ethiopia secured a stellar 8.7 billion USD in export revenue over the last 10 months of the current fiscal year. Trade and Regional Integration Minister Kassahun Gofe disclosed the figures during the graduation of 168 coffee sommeliers from the Ethiopian Commodity Exchange (ECX) Academy, noting that structural economic reforms have dramatically boosted the competitiveness of agricultural exports. The nation remains firmly on track to hit its ambitious 10 billion USD export target by the end of the fiscal year through strict quality assurance and professional workforce training. Simultaneously, the national push for food self-reliance is gaining substantial momentum across regional states, driven by robust cluster farming initiatives and expanding summer wheat production outputs. Bolstering urban resilience, the Ministry of Finance formalized an essential environmental partnership by signing a 5 million Euro grant agreement with the Government of Italy, specifically dedicated to the execution of the Kebena Riverside Project designed to expand Addis Ababa's green coverage and eco-tourism spaces. National Dialogue Commission Advances to Final Phase On the social and political front, the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission announced that the country has moved significantly closer to the final phase of its nationwide reconciliation process. The Commission indicated that consultations and agenda-gathering phases have progressed smoothly across various regions, laying a firm, inclusive foundation to resolve long-standing national issues through peaceful discourse. This steady domestic progress mirrors Ethiopia's active external posture, as the country continues to push for economic self-sufficiency, institutional transparency, and harmonious national development.   Ultimately, the past week has proven that Ethiopia's transformative journey is moving forward at an irreversible pace. The synchronized milestones in domestic industrialization, expanding export landscapes, and heavyweight global partnerships illustrate a country aggressively turning its grand visions into concrete, historical realities. By combining local resilience with an influential global posture, Addis Ababa continues to confidently chart the path forward for Africa's development paradigm. Looking Ahead This week underscored Ethiopia’s growing confidence as it continues to expand its economic base, strengthen diplomatic relationships, and pursue long-term national transformation. The simultaneous progress in industrial development, international partnerships, export growth, and national dialogue reflects a country determined to shape its future through resilience, ambition, and strategic leadership. As Ethiopia deepens its domestic reforms while expanding its global influence, it continues to position itself as one of Africa’s most consequential emerging powers.

By Staff Writer Addis Ababa, May 17, 2026 —The second week of May 2026 highlighted a global order under mounting strain as geopolitical competition, economic fragility, technological rivalry, climate shocks, and public health emergencies converged into a single accelerating pattern of instability. Events across multiple regions did not unfold in isolation but reinforced one another, signaling a deeper structural shift in how the international system functions. The global landscape during the week reflected a world in transition, shaped less by isolated crises and more by interconnected pressures that are steadily redefining international relations. Major diplomatic activity involving leading powers pointed to a recalibration of global influence, with Beijing increasingly positioned as a central arena where strategic competition and negotiation intersect. At the same time, the widening effects of sanctions, shifting alliances, and industrial competition continued to reshape economic and political alignments. Conflict zones remained highly volatile, particularly in the Middle East and Eastern Europe, where military escalation, fragile ceasefire, and expanding drone warfare underscored the changing nature of modern conflict. Warfare is no longer confined to traditional battle lines but is increasingly defined by long range systems, infrastructure targeting, and hybrid strategies that blur the distinction between military and civilian domains. Beyond geopolitics, the week also exposed growing systemic stress in other domains. Africa’s public health emergencies highlighted the vulnerability of strained health systems, while climate driven shocks intensified risks to food security, water supply, and urban stability across multiple continents. In parallel, rising political polarization in parts of Europe signaled deepening social fragmentation, with mass demonstrations reflecting broader tensions linked to migration, economic pressure, and institutional distrust. Across these developments runs a unifying pattern frequently described by analysts as a poly crisis, where multiple global shocks interact and amplify each other, accelerating uncertainty across political, economic, and social systems. Global Power Relations At the center of global attention stood Beijing, where diplomacy involving U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and Chinese President Xi Jinping reflected a major re-calibration of global power relations. Trump’s summit with Xi Jinping represented far more than a bilateral diplomatic engagement. According to assessments by Reuters, Bloomberg, and the Financial Times, the meeting underscored Beijing’s growing position as a central arena where the future balance of economic and strategic influence is increasingly negotiated. China’s expanding leverage over manufacturing, infrastructure investment, advanced technology, and global supply chains has steadily shifted the center of geopolitical gravity eastward.   The significance of the summit deepened further with confirmation that Vladimir Putin will travel to Beijing for talks with Xi. Analysts from the Council on Foreign Relations and Eurasia focused policy institutes argued that the back-to-back meetings demonstrated China’s evolving role not only as an economic superpower but also as a diplomatic pivot between rival global blocs. Russia’s growing dependence on China has become one of the defining strategic consequences of the Ukraine war. Prolonged Western sanctions have pushed Moscow closer to Beijing economically, financially, and diplomatically. China, meanwhile, continues pursuing a careful balancing strategy, strengthening ties with Russia while attempting to prevent a direct rupture with the United States and Europe. Yet beneath the diplomatic symbolism, structural tensions remain unresolved. Reuters and Bloomberg both noted that competition between Washington and Beijing increasingly revolves around technology, industrial dominance, trade architecture, and military positioning in the Indo Pacific. Middle East Instability The Middle East remained one of the most immediate sources of international instability throughout the week. Although diplomacy temporarily reduced fears of large-scale escalation, the region continues to function as a central pressure point for global energy security and geopolitical confrontation. Following negotiations in Washington, Israel and Lebanon agreed to extend their ceasefire for 45 days. Regional coverage from Reuters, Al Jazeera, and the Associated Press described the agreement as a fragile pause rather than a durable political settlement. Security analysts warned that the underlying drivers of instability remain unresolved, particularly the broader confrontation involving Iran, Israel, Hamas, and Iran aligned armed groups across the region. The ceasefire unfolded against worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza. International aid organizations, including Médecins Sans Frontières and United Nations humanitarian agencies, continued warning about severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel. The inability of major powers to secure lasting ceasefire has reinforced criticism that international diplomacy is increasingly reactive rather than preventive. Tensions escalated further after the killing of Izz al Din al Haddad; a senior Hamas Al Qassam Brigades commander linked to the October 7 attacks against Israel. Israeli and Hamas sources both confirmed the strike. Security analysts interviewed by Reuters and regional security networks warned that the assassination could provoke broader retaliation and deepen regional instability. At the same time, Iran signaled a broader expansion of strategic pressure beyond conventional military confrontation. Iranian lawmakers announced plans to impose new regulatory mechanisms and transit fees not only on maritime traffic moving through the Strait of Hormuz but also on subsea communication infrastructure crossing the region. According to regional security briefings and international reporting monitored by Reuters and Bloomberg, Tehran’s focus on subsea internet and financial cables marked a significant evolution in geopolitical strategy. Iranian officials suggested that global technology firms such as Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Amazon could eventually face licensing requirements tied to underwater digital infrastructure. This development demonstrated how geopolitical competition increasingly extends beyond territory and military hardware into control over digital infrastructure, communications networks, and cyber strategic assets. The International Energy Agency and the U.S. Energy Information Administration both warned during the week that instability in the Strait of Hormuz continues threatening global supply chains. Nearly one fifth of globally traded oil passes through the waterway. Oil prices remained above 100 dollars per barrel, increasing inflationary pressure globally and placing renewed strain on fuel importing economies. The Ukraine The war in Ukraine entered another dangerous phase as drone warfare expanded dramatically in scale and sophistication. Russian officials reported one of the largest Ukrainian drone assaults on the Moscow region since the war began, with Russia’s Defense Ministry claiming that more than 550 drones were intercepted overnight. Reporting from BBC, Reuters, and the Institute for the Study of War indicated that the strikes damaged infrastructure and targeted energy facilities near Moscow. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky defended the attacks as a response to Russia’s continued bombardment of Ukrainian cities, including recent missile and drone strikes that killed civilians in Kyiv. Military analysts interviewed by NATO affiliated defense forums and the Institute for the Study of War noted that the expanding drone war is reshaping modern military doctrine. Long range autonomous systems are increasingly capable of targeting critical infrastructure hundreds of kilometers from front-lines, reducing traditional strategic advantages based on geography and defensive depth. Africa’s Public Health Emergency Africa faced simultaneous health emergencies during the week, illustrating the vulnerability of fragile regions to overlapping crises. Central Africa confronted a major public health emergency after the World Health Organization declared the Ebola outbreak in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo an international health emergency. WHO emergency briefings stated that the outbreak in Ituri province resulted in hundreds of suspected cases and at least 80 deaths. Particularly alarming is the fact that the Bundibugyo strain currently involved has no approved vaccines or treatments. Africa CDC, Médecins Sans Frontières, and WHO experts warned that weak health-care infrastructure, population displacement, mining activity, and porous borders could significantly complicate containment efforts. Confirmed cases in Uganda and the appearance of the virus in Kinshasa heightened fears of broader regional spread. Climate Pressure Climate related pressures also intensified globally during the week. Severe heatwaves, flooding, drought conditions, and water shortages continued affecting multiple regions, reinforcing the growing consensus that climate change is now a central economic and security challenge rather than simply an environmental issue. A panel of experts advising the World Health Organization urged the agency to formally classify climate change as a global public health emergency, citing growing links between rising temperatures, disease spread, food insecurity, and displacement. In the United States, the Colorado River crisis deepened as water levels approached critical thresholds. According to the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and climate monitoring agencies, the river supports nearly 40 million people and remains essential for agriculture, urban supply systems, and electricity generation. Federal officials warned that unprecedented water rationing measures may soon become unavoidable. Analysts increasingly argue that climate related resource scarcity is becoming a major driver of future political and economic instability. Meanwhile, Europe experienced intensifying political polarization. BBC and CNN, also reported large demonstrations in London organized around anti-immigration and nationalist themes under the “Unite the Kingdom” banner. The scale of the demonstrations reflected growing frustration linked to migration, economic pressure, social fragmentation, and distrust toward political institutions. Analysts increasingly warn that populist and extremist rhetoric once considered politically marginal is becoming normalized across several Western democracies. Conclusion The events of the week point to an international system undergoing a fundamental transition rather than experiencing temporary disruption. Power relations are shifting, conflicts are evolving in form and scale, and non-traditional threats such as climate instability and public health crises are becoming central to global security calculations. What emerges is a world increasingly defined by interconnected vulnerability. Energy markets, technological infrastructure, trade networks, and political stability are now tightly interlinked, meaning pressure in one domain rapidly transmits to others.

Addis Ababa, May 16, 2026 —Ethiopia’s Medemer philosophy, introduced by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, could offer valuable lessons for Gulf nations navigating a fragile post-war environment, according to American political analyst Andrew Korybko. In his recent newsletter, Korybko described Medemer, loosely translated as “synergy” as a socio-political and economic philosophy aimed at preserving national unity while promoting inclusive development among Ethiopia’s diverse population. The analyst’s opinion came shortly after the official launch of the Arabic edition of Medemer in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, an event seen as a significant step in strengthening Ethiopia’s cultural and diplomatic ties with the Arab world. The launch ceremony, organized by the Embassy of Ethiopia in the United Arab Emirates, brought together high-ranking officials, diplomats, scholars, and members of the Ethiopian diaspora. Among those in attendance were Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan and Ethiopia’s Ambassador to the UAE, Jemal Beker.   According to Korybko, the recent conflict in the Gulf—referred to in his analysis as the “Third Gulf War,” has significantly reshaped regional dynamics on both sides of the strategically important waterway through which much of the world’s oil supply passes. Although the conflict has not been officially declared over, Korybko noted that a Pakistan-mediated ceasefire has held longer than many analysts anticipated, creating cautious optimism about regional stability and opening the door for post-war recovery efforts. “It is within this complex regional environment, marked by tensions between Iran and Gulf monarchies, as well as divisions among Gulf states themselves—that the Arabic translation of Medemer arrives at a particularly important moment,” he wrote.   Korybko emphasized that the launch of the Arabic edition in the UAE was not accidental, noting that the country remains one of Ethiopia’s key strategic partners. He also highlighted Ethiopia’s close relations with Saudi Arabia and Iran, suggesting that leaders in both countries may take interest in the philosophy now that it is accessible in Arabic. While he acknowledged that Ethiopia is unlikely to directly mediate disputes between Iran and Gulf states or between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, Korybko argued that the principles of Medemer could still inspire regional cooperation. “Realistically speaking, Ethiopia will not mediate between Iran and the Gulf kingdoms,” he said. “However, Medemer's teachings could contribute to the post-war era by encouraging dialogue on a regional non-aggression pact and eventually a broader collective security framework.”   The analyst also acknowledged Ethiopia’s own internal challenges, including unresolved ethnic and regional tensions, but said the country’s progress under the philosophy demonstrates that even deeply rooted conflicts can be addressed. “If the federal government and groups that have fought against it for years can move toward reconciliation, then Gulf nations can also pursue peace based on shared economic and security interests,” he added. Korybko concluded by cautioning against overstating the immediate impact of Medemer on Gulf politics but stressed that the Arabic translation could still play a meaningful role in promoting dialogue. “Through sustained diplomatic and intellectual engagement, Ethiopia can help ensure regional leaders understand the core principles of Medemer,” he wrote. “That could ultimately contribute to lasting peace and mutual development in the region.”