Addis Ababa, September 15, 2026 (ENA) — The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has called for coordinated and large-scale investment to strengthen food systems resilience across the Horn of Africa. The call was made at the opening of IGAD Final Expert Validation and Ministerial Endorsement of the IGAD Regional Agrifood Systems Investment Plan (RASIP) 2026–2035 that opened today. Speaking on the occasion, IGAD Food Systems Resilience Programme Project Coordinator Senait Regassa said the IGAD Regional Agrifood Systems Investment Plan (RASIP) 2026–2035 is designed to translate continental and regional commitments into practical action. According to her, the regional agrifood systems investment plan links agriculture, environment, trade, and resilience into a coherent framework for food security, economic growth, and social stability. She noted that food insecurity in the IGAD region is being driven by multiple and interconnected challenges, including climate shocks, conflicts, economic volatility and structural weaknesses in food systems. The RASIP 2026–2035 seeks to take a more integrated approach to food systems by linking sustainable agricultural production with trade, investment, nutrition, climate resilience, governance and research. The meeting is also considering the IGAD Regional Seed Policy and Regulatory Framework, which is intended to strengthen regional cooperation on seed systems and improve access to quality seed varieties adapted to climate and pest-related challenges. The framework is expected to promote cooperation among governments, farmers, private-sector actors and technical and development partners, contributing to increased agricultural productivity and food security across the region. Minister of Agriculture Advisor, Zena Habtewold, said the regional investment plan comes at a critical time as countries in the region continue to face food insecurity amid recurrent droughts, floods and other pressures. “The regional agricultural system investment plan comes at a pivotal moment, aligning with the Kampala Declaration strategy and action plan,” he added. He highlighted the potential of the region's agricultural resources and young population, stressing the need to translate these assets into practical investments and improved livelihoods. The Advisor pointed to Ethiopia's experience in areas including irrigated wheat production, improved seed varieties and cluster farming as examples of efforts to strengthen food and nutrition security. Ethiopia's Green Legacy Initiative, which combines landscape restoration, agroforestry, soil conservation and fruit-tree development, also demonstrates how agricultural productivity and environmental restoration can be pursued together. During the three-day session, participants will review the investment priorities, results framework and implementation arrangements of RASIP 2026–2035 before its ministerial endorsement. The meeting has brought together experts, policymakers, representatives of IGAD member states and development partners to review regional priorities and strengthen policy and investment frameworks for more resilient agrifood systems. It forms part of IGAD's broader efforts to strengthen regional food systems resilience, improve preparedness for shocks and promote coordinated investment and policy action among member states.

Addis Ababa, September 15, 2026 (ENA) — IGAD Executive Secretary, Workneh Gebeyehu, has urged member states to step up and strengthen ownership of the regional bloc, emphasizing that the organization’s future depends on sustained political and financial commitment. Speaking at the opening session of the 74th Extraordinary Session of the IGAD Council of Ministers, the Executive Secretary began with gratitude to IGAD member states for the political and diplomatic backing that keeps the organization operational, noting that the financial contributions provided by states are essential for a Secretariat of IGAD’s size to carry out its mandate. Workneh said the meeting comes as IGAD returns to the birthplace of its founding conviction —namely that the challenges of the region could only be addressed through collective action. He described today's session as extraordinary, pointing to Sudan’s return as a sign of the organization’s renewed completeness. The Executive Secretary welcomed Sudan, describing its resumption of full membership in February as a restoration of the IGAD family. IGAD reopened its mission in Khartoum in July, portraying it as a standing link between IGAD and Sudan’s government and people. According to the Executive Secretary, IGAD is meeting at a demanding hour not only due to internal conditions within member states but also because conflicts beyond the region are now affecting ports, fuel supplies, grain markets, and humanitarian budgets. He said nearly 49 million people are acutely food insecure, while more than 19 million are displaced within their own countries. Sudan, Workneh added, remains the epicenter of one of the world’s gravest emergencies, and referenced shifting control at the Red Sea as underscoring how rapidly regional developments can affect livelihoods. Despite the challenges, he reported that in the first half of the year 77 percent of IGAD’s priority areas were on track. The Executive Secretary highlighted performance achievements, including decision-support products, high availability of a regional groundwater information system, improvements in a universal health coverage index, and anticipatory action frameworks operating in 4 of IGAD’s 7 Member States. He congratulated Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Uganda for their national elections held under IGAD observation, and expressed confidence in South Sudan’s preparations for elections scheduled for December. The Executive Secretary also pointed to IGAD’s 40th year and the entry into force of the new IGAD Treaty, noting that five of the 7 member states have ratified it. According to him, the systems of cooperation are working, but emphasized that what is required is fuel, meaning stronger commitment and predictable resources. Workneh asked the Council for three actions: Stabilize essential operations now, settle historical arrears in an orderly way, and build a financing framework designed to prevent recurring funding crises. Moreover, he stressed that IGAD also needs to prepare for the impending El Niño season before floodwaters rise, calling for a legacy initiative to position the region as an author rather than a subject in the age of artificial intelligence. The peoples of the region have shown resilience, but what they require from IGAD is resolve, the Executive Secretary underscored, urging ministers to ensure that the extraordinary session produces concrete decisions.

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

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

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

Addis Ababa, September 14, 2026 (ENA) — Germany and Denmark have emphasized cultural diplomacy, people to people exchanges, academic cooperation and green transformation as key pillars of their longstanding partnerships with Ethiopia. In a recent interview with ENA, Ferdinand von Weyhe, Germany’s Deputy Head of Mission, noted cultural diplomacy and people to people relations remain central to the bilateral relationship. He further stressed that high level political engagement should be complemented by direct connections between the peoples of the two countries. “It is very important because, in the end, you may have high level political interaction and conversations, but it is ultimately about people-to-people relations. We are defined by our culture, and it is enriching to experience other cultures and be inspired by them,” von Weyhe said. He further noted cultural diplomacy and cultural exchange constitute core pillars of Germany’s cooperation with Ethiopia, noting that bilateral relations are reflected in practical initiatives and institutional partnerships. “Cultural diplomacy and cultural exchange are among the core pillars of our bilateral cooperation. We can always talk at a high level, but it has to come down to concrete cooperation,” he said. Von Weyhe cited the German Embassy School in Addis Ababa, the Goethe-Institut, educational exchanges involving Ethiopian students studying in Germany, and archaeological cooperation as examples of the concrete dimensions of the partnership.     “One very concrete example is our German School here in Addis Ababa and the Goethe-Institut, as well as the many Ethiopian students who go to Germany to study and our archaeological cooperation,” he said. He particularly highlighted the longstanding archaeological cooperation between the two countries, including joint research at Yeha, near Adwa in the Tigray Region, where Ethiopian and German archaeologists continue to work together. “This year we are celebrating 120 years of the German Aksum Expedition. This is not simply something that happened 120 years ago. Even today, there is archaeological cooperation in Yeha, close to Adwa, where Ethiopian and German archaeologists are excavating together. This is culture at its best,” von Weyhe said. The German diplomat also pointed to the historical depth of relations between the two countries, noting that Germany and Ethiopia recently marked significant milestones in their diplomatic and cultural ties. He further highlighted a recent cultural exchange involving the donation of historical artifacts to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at Addis Ababa University. According to von Weyhe, descendants of a German diplomat who served in Ethiopia about a century ago donated cultural items, including a crown and a shield, that had been presented to their ancestor during his time in Ethiopia. The items had reportedly been given to the German diplomat’s family by Ras Tafari, who later became Emperor Haile Selassie I. The family subsequently decided to return the artifacts to Ethiopia, where they could be preserved and made accessible through the Institute of Ethiopian Studies. “The return of these cultural items was a very enriching and powerful signal for cultural cooperation. The heirs of my predecessor, a German diplomat who served 100 years ago, decided that they had no use for the artifacts in their home in Europe and donated them to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies. I think this was a very powerful gesture,” von Weyhe said. Meanwhile, Denmark highlighted green transformation and sustainable economic growth as important areas of its cooperation with Ethiopia. Denmark’s Deputy Head of Mission Mirja Crone also told ENA that past year had been marked by significant progress in both Ethiopian government initiatives and Danish Ethiopian cooperation, particularly in efforts to support a greener and more sustainable economy. “It has been a very busy year, with many achievements by the Ethiopian government and in Danish Ethiopian cooperation as well. We are working toward a greener transformation, bringing Danish expertise together with Ethiopian companies and professionals to promote more sustainable and green growth,” she said.     The cooperation involves sharing Danish expertise with Ethiopian companies and professionals, with the aim of supporting sustainable economic development and advancing Ethiopia’s green transition. The diplomats made the remarks during New Year visits to their respective embassies. The visits were organized jointly by the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism as part of broader efforts to strengthen cultural diplomacy, diplomatic engagement and people to people relations. The diplomats highlight the expanding scope of Ethiopia’s partnerships with European countries, extending beyond traditional diplomatic engagement to include cultural exchange, education, archaeology, professional cooperation, sustainable development and green economic transformation.

Addis Ababa, September 14, 2026 (ENA) —The BRICS member states have reaffirmed their support for Ethiopia’s bid to join the World Trade Organization (WTO), its candidacy for the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council, and its bid for the presidency of the UN climate change conference COP32. According to a social media post by the Office of the Prime Minister, the positions are reflected in the New Delhi Declaration adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit held in New Delhi, India, from September 12 to 13, 2026. The declaration states that BRICS strongly supports Ethiopia and Iran’s bids for accession to the WTO, in the context of efforts to strengthen the participation of developing countries in the multilateral trading system. It also welcomes Ethiopia’s candidacy for the ICAO Council, noting that Ethiopia has been endorsed by the African Union as the sole African candidate for the additional Council seat allocated to underrepresented regions. In addition, the declaration expresses support for Ethiopia’s UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) COP32 presidency, following its commendation of the successful conclusion of Brazil’s COP30 presidency. The three positions underline BRICS’ support for Ethiopia’s engagement in key multilateral institutions and processes, spanning global trade, international civil aviation, and climate diplomacy. The New Delhi Declaration was issued under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”

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

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

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

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

Addis Ababa, September 12, 2026 (ENA) —The 18th BRICS Summit has strongly supported Ethiopia’s bid for accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). The endorsement came in the New Delhi Declaration adopted at the summit, underscoring Ethiopia’s growing engagement in multilateral economic and global governance affairs. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and a high-level Ethiopian delegation participated in the summit, held under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” In its declaration, BRICS leaders reaffirmed their commitment to an open, transparent, fair and rules-based multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core.   “Echoing the aspirations of the Global South to fully integrate into the multilateral trading system, we strongly support Ethiopia and Iran’s bid for accession to the WTO,” the declaration stated. The endorsement comes as Ethiopia advances its WTO accession process and strengthens economic ties with major emerging markets. In May 2026, Ethiopia and India signed a bilateral accession protocol in Geneva as part of Ethiopia’s WTO membership process. Addressing the BRICS Summit, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called for stronger cooperation among member states and deeper engagement with Africa, emphasizing the importance of leveraging BRICS capital, technology and markets to create greater value from the resources and opportunities available across member countries.   Beyond trade, the New Delhi Declaration also recognized Ethiopia’s growing role in international institutions. BRICS leaders welcomed Ethiopia’s candidacy for one of the newly expanded seats on the ICAO Council, noting that Ethiopia has been endorsed by the African Union as the continent’s sole candidate for the upcoming election. The twin endorsements on trade and global aviation governance reinforce Ethiopia’s push for a stronger voice in multilateral institutions and highlight the country’s expanding role within the Global South, it was indicated. Moreover, for Addis Ababa, the BRICS backing represents both diplomatic recognition and strategic momentum as Ethiopia seeks deeper integration into the global trading system and greater representation in international decision-making bodies.

Addis Ababa, September 12, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called for stronger cooperation among BRICS members and deeper engagement with Africa. Addressing the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, the Prime Minister emphasized the need to build resilience, expand value creation and accelerate climate and economic transformation. PM Abiy also thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India for their leadership, saying the summit’s theme of resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability reflects the interconnected challenges facing the world. “Shocks rarely come alone,” the Premier said, stressing that resilience must be built into national governance and systems before crises emerge. He highlighted Ethiopia’s progress in food security, noting that the country has moved from dependence on imported wheat toward self-sufficiency.   Ethiopia, Prime Minister Abiy said, therefore approaches the proposed BRICS grain exchange not only as a consumer but also as a producer and potential supplier. The Prime Minister also underscored Ethiopia’s efforts to expand pharmaceutical manufacturing, strengthen digital public infrastructure and develop digital identification, payment and data-exchange systems. On artificial intelligence, PM Abiy called for a more inclusive next generation of AI that better understands Africa’s languages, communities and knowledge systems. He said Ethiopia’s Medemer University of Artificial Intelligence reflects the country’s ambition to work with BRICS institutions to develop AI that better serves Africa, while stressing that ethical governance must be matched by research capacity, computing infrastructure, skills and strong institutions. The Premier further highlighted the potential for BRICS cooperation to connect Africa’s natural resources with capital, technology and markets, particularly, he explained untapped potential in critical minerals, renewable energy and advanced manufacturing.   “Africa holds many of these resources,” he said, emphasizing the opportunity to create greater value where resources are found rather than exporting raw materials without sufficient local value addition. He also pointed to Ethiopia’s strategic connectivity, citing Ethiopian Airlines’ global network, electricity exports to neighboring countries and Addis Ababa’s role as the headquarters of the African Union as platforms for wider economic and strategic partnerships. In this regard, Prime Minister Abiy called for stronger consultation between BRICS and the African Union to ensure engagement with the continent is better aligned with Agenda 2063. Turning to global finance, the Prime Minister urged faster, more transparent and predictable mechanisms for debt resolution, drawing on Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms and external debt restructuring. PM Abiy also backed efforts within BRICS to facilitate cross-border payments and expand the use of local currencies where this can reduce transaction costs and promote trade. On climate change, Premier Abiy said Ethiopia views climate action and economic transformation as mutually reinforcing priorities. He highlighted the Green Legacy Initiative, renewable energy expansion, electric mobility and investments in resilient agriculture, cities and infrastructure.   Looking ahead to COP32 in Addis Ababa in 2027, PM Abiy said Ethiopia intends to make the conference a “COP of delivery and hope,” with a strong focus on climate adaptation, practical solutions, climate finance and responsible use of emerging technologies. He proposed establishing a BRICS coordinating track on the road to COP32 to translate shared priorities into practical areas of agreement ahead of the Addis Ababa climate summit. Concluding his remarks, Abiy said the future requires countries to manage differences while pursuing common objectives, stressing that BRICS’ strength lies in what its members can achieve together. “Ethiopia comes to its partnership ready to contribute,” he said, inviting BRICS members to Addis Ababa for COP32 in 2027.

Addis Ababa, September 12, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held talks with Vietnamese Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng on the margins of the 18th BRICS Summit, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation between Ethiopia and Vietnam. The two leaders held constructive discussions on ways to deepen the longstanding partnership and explore new areas of mutual cooperation, underscoring the growing ties between Ethiopia and Vietnam. The meeting took place as Ethiopia continues to strengthen its engagement with emerging economies and broaden strategic partnerships across Asia and beyond.

Addis Ababa, September 12, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed met with the Crown Prince Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, to discuss key BRICS priorities and strengthened Ethiopia-UAE cooperation. Prime Minister Abiy wrote on his FaceBook:" On the margins of the 18th BRICS Summit, I met with Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan to discuss key BRICS priorities and strengthened Ethiopia-UAE cooperation."

Addis Ababa, September 12, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and President Vladimir Putin have held constructive discussion about strengthening the strategic partnership between Ethiopia and Russia on the sidelines of the BRICS summit in New Delhi. Prime Minister Abiy wrote on FaceBook: ''I had the opportunity to meet with President Vladimir Putin as well today for a constructive discussion on strengthening the strategic partnership between Ethiopia and Russia." The discussion reaffirmed the country's shared commitment to advancing cooperation across key areas, including defense and security, trade and investment, education, and technology, he added.   The leaders also explored opportunities to expand educational exchanges and deepen collaboration in cultural and people-to-people ties. Furthermore, PM Abiy and President Putin discussed about strengthening cooperation on climate and development priorities, including collaboration toward COP32, while working together to expand mutually beneficial trade and economic exchanges.

Addis Ababa, September 12, 2026 (ENA) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Ethiopia is ready to forge stronger partnerships within BRICS by leveraging the bloc’s capital, technology and markets to create greater value from the resources and opportunities available across member countries. Prime Minister Abiy made the remarks as he participated in the 18th BRICS Summit in India, held under the theme of building resilience, innovation, cooperation and sustainability.   “Across BRICS, we have capital, technology and markets. The opportunity is to bring them together, create more value, and ensure that value is generated where resources are found,” the Prime Minister shared on social media channels. He highlighted Ethiopia’s readiness to expand partnerships in minerals, renewable energy and its growing industrial base. PM Abiy further underscored the country’s ambition to translate its natural and economic potential into sustainable development and shared prosperity.   Prime Minister Abiy also called for greater resilience in global systems, stressing the need to ensure that artificial intelligence serves Africa’s development priorities, advance predictable debt resolution, and connect climate action with broader economic transformation. “Together, BRICS can turn cooperation into shared value, resilience and sustainable growth,” he said.

Addis Ababa, September 12, 2026 (ENA) —BRICS leaders have gathered in New Delhi for the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit, with the expanded coalition seeking a stronger voice for the Global South and a greater role in shaping a more inclusive and representative international order. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and a high-level Ethiopian delegation are participating in the September 12–13 summit, hosted by India under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” The summit comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, trade disruptions and growing calls for reform of the global governance system.   Addressing the summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi called for a major overhaul of global governance, saying reform of the United Nations Security Council “cannot be delayed any longer” and urging BRICS countries to help transform the Global South from a “rule-taker” into a “rule-shaper.” Prime Minister Modi stressed that BRICS is not directed against any country or bloc, but should use its growing influence to advance a more representative, inclusive and balanced international order. Against this backdrop, leaders are expected to advance cooperation in trade and investment, food and energy security, health, technology, connectivity, disaster resilience and critical supply chains. The opening session focuses on “Inclusive Global Governance and Strengthening Multilateralism,” while the main leaders’ session on September 13 will address “Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability: Shaping the Future for Inclusive Global Growth.” The summit is expected to culminate in the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration. From its five founding members to 11 full members today, BRICS has evolved into a major force in the global economy, representing nearly half of the world’s population and accounting for a significant share of global economic output and trade. Ethiopia joined BRICS in January 2024 alongside Egypt, Iran, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, while Indonesia became a full member in 2025.   The expanded bloc now represents nearly half of the world’s population, around 40 percent of global GDP and about 26 percent of global trade. For Ethiopia, the New Delhi summit offers a high-level platform to deepen engagement with the Global South, expand economic and development partnerships, and contribute to discussions on a more inclusive, balanced and representative international order. Ethiopia’s participation further underscores its growing engagement in multilateral platforms and its efforts to advance cooperation in development, investment, technology, trade and other shared global priorities.

Addis Ababa, September 12, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and his Malaysian counterpart Anwar Ibrahim have discussed ways to expand economic and development cooperation between Ethiopia and Malaysia, with a focus on investment, tourism, renewable energy and industrial development. The two leaders held talks on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit, building on the momentum generated by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s historic visit to Addis Ababa in November 2025. Prime Minister Abiy said the meeting provided an opportunity to further strengthen the growing Ethiopia-Malaysia partnership and explore new areas of mutually beneficial cooperation. Their discussions highlighted opportunities to expand investment and tourism ties, advance renewable energy cooperation and deepen collaboration in the lead-up to COP32, according to PM Abiy’s social media post. The leaders also explored areas where Ethiopia could benefit from Malaysia’s experience in industrial parks, manufacturing and productivity, particularly as Ethiopia pursues its broader economic transformation agenda. Ethiopia and Malaysia, Prime Minister Abiy noted, have significant potential to build a stronger economic partnership that creates new opportunities in investment, technology transfer, skills development and sustainable development. The renewed engagement underscores the two countries’ growing interest in translating their longstanding ties into a more dynamic partnership centered on trade, investment, technology and shared development priorities, it was said.

Addis Ababa, September 12, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed met with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit, as part of Ethiopia’s engagement with the BRICS Plus family. The two leaders exchanged views on developments in the Red Sea and the broader regional security landscape, with particular emphasis on the importance of dialogue, cooperation and preserving regional stability. The meeting reflects Ethiopia’s growing diplomatic engagement on issues affecting the strategic Red Sea region and its broader neighborhood, as Addis Ababa continues to advocate dialogue and peaceful approaches to regional challenges, it was pointed out.