Addis Ababa, July 10, 2026 (ENA) —US Ambassador to Ethiopia Ervin Massinga reaffirmed the United States' commitment to working closely with Ethiopia to promote regional peace and stability. Speaking at the International Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum (PI-SF) in Addis Ababa, Ambassador Massinga underscored the importance of stronger security cooperation in addressing evolving threats across East Africa. The increasingly interconnected nature of global security challenges, including terrorism, transnational crime, cyber threats, and human trafficking—requires robust institutional collaboration and sustained information sharing, the ambassador noted. Massinga ambassador stressed that strengthening security institutions is a fundamental pillar for ensuring sustainable peace and stability in Ethiopia and across the wider region. He also reaffirmed his country’s interest in deepening its long-standing partnership with Ethiopia, particularly in the areas of technology and security, while emphasizing transparency and accountability as guiding principles of the bilateral relationship.   Lawmakers, intelligence officials, cybersecurity experts, policymakers, and representatives of international organizations from across the world gathered in Addis Ababa for the two-day Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum. Hosted by Ethiopia's House of People’s Representatives, the forum brings together parliamentarians from several countries, heads of intelligence and security institutions, senior cybersecurity specialists, representatives of international financial institutions, and technology companies to deliberate on emerging global security challenges. Ethiopia was selected to host the gathering in recognition of its strategic diplomatic role in Africa's peace and security architecture, as well as its growing leadership in digital transformation and technology governance. The country is the second African nation, after Kenya, to host the international forum.   Addressing participants, Ambassador Massinga noted that today's security threats are increasingly global, interconnected, and rapidly evolving, making international cooperation more essential than ever. He observed that parliamentarians have a vital role to play in strengthening national and regional security by enacting effective legislation, allocating adequate resources, and fostering cross-border cooperation. The ambassador added that timely information sharing remains indispensable in combating transnational cybercrime, terrorism, and human trafficking. Massinga further cautioned that opaque agreements and surveillance-related arrangements can pose risks to governance and national sovereignty, calling for harmonized legal frameworks, stronger law enforcement cooperation, and enhanced cross-border data sharing. Reiterating Washington's commitment to its partnership with Ethiopia, the ambassador said the United States stands ready to deepen cooperation in addressing shared regional and global security challenges. For his part, U.S. Congressman Robert Pittenger told ENA today that the forum provides Ethiopia with an important platform to present its leadership's vision and priorities to the international community.   He pledged continued support through technological cooperation and legislative engagement, emphasizing that democratic governance, innovation, and institutional resilience are essential drivers of economic opportunity, job creation, and long-term peace and stability.

Addis Ababa, July 10, 2026 (ENA) —The banned Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) is undermining the future of the next Tigriyan generation through institutional mechanisms, former House of Federation Speaker, Keria Ibrahim, disclosed. The banned group, operating under the so-called Tsimdo alliance, is also actively collaborating with the Eritrean ruling party, Sudan, and local extremist forces, to keep Ethiopia in perpetual turmoil, the former House Speaker and Simret Democratic Party Council Member revealed. She further noted that the group is using the Pretoria Peace Agreement as a smokescreen to buy time for another round of conflict, bringing continued suffering to Tigrayan mothers. The former House Speaker's remarks come at a time when observers and international organizations are expressing growing concern that renewed militarization, forced recruitment, and escalating tensions in the Tigray region could undermine the Pretoria Peace Agreement and plunge the region back into conflict. Among those raising concerns are the Human Rights Watch that has urged authorities in Tigray to revoke the proclamation issued in early June 2026 granting sweeping powers for compulsory military recruitment. Similarly, the European Union Delegation to Ethiopia has expressed deep concern over the establishment of a parallel regional council and military conscription in the Tigray region by TPLF hardliners. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the former House of Federation Speaker said the Pretoria Peace Agreement served as a genuine gateway to peace by silencing the guns and restoring hope to the people of the region. According to her, the Federal Government faithfully implemented the agreement by rebuilding devastated infrastructure and public institutions, laying the foundation for communities to return to stability and normalcy. She added that these efforts, including the establishment of the Interim Regional Administration, enabled the rapid restoration of essential social and economic services. Furthermore, former combatants were enrolled in rehabilitation programs and provided with financial support to facilitate their reintegration into civilian life. However, the illegal group exploited the peace process solely to buy time for military remobilization. She further stated that the group dissolved the Interim Administration, unconstitutionally convening an illegal council through a sham election to establish a cabinet lacking popular support. At present, the illegal TPLF group is deliberately destroying the prospects of Tigray's youth through institutional mechanisms, Keria underscored. She said that the group is making preparations for another round of war by snatching away children from their parents and training them to become soldiers. Keria further noted that by entering alliances with internal and external actors, hostile to Ethiopia, the faction is exposing civilians in Tigray to renewed hardships. Tigriyan mothers, youth, and the wider community are increasingly rejecting the group's actions and resisting its destructive agenda. Beyond engaging in illicit gold and other precious minerals trading through foreign networks, the faction has trafficked Tigriyan youth to participate in the conflict in Sudan, using the proceeds to purchase weapons, the former Speaker exposed. Despite growing criticism from citizens and international organizations, the faction continues to push the region toward further instability, she stated. Keria called on traditional elders, international organizations, and global partners to work together to prevent the destructive agenda of the criminal group from taking hold. She also pointed out that by shutting down schools across the region and forcing young people into military training camps, the faction is systematically undermining the education of the next generation.

Addis Ababa, July 10, 2026 (ENA) —House of People’s Representative (HPR) Speaker, Tagesse Chaffo, said the two-day Parliamentary Intelligence-Security forum underway in Addis Ababa is timely and crucial for strengthening democratic governance, accountability and international security cooperation. Lawmakers, intelligence officials, cybersecurity experts, and policymakers from 36 countries are in Addis Ababa for the Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum (PI-SF). The Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum hosts regular fora for international parliamentarians and government officials to learn from preeminent experts regarding counter-terrorism financing, cyber security, predatory foreign investments, intelligence sharing, 5G, AI, and other relevant topics. Opening the forum, HPR Speaker Tagesse emphasized a shift in the way intelligence and security are governed globally—away from models that treat intelligence as an exclusively executive function, and toward systems that recognize the role of elected representatives, public trust, accountability, democratic legitimacy, and effective security governance.   Addressing the broader security environment, he stated that today’s threats are increasingly complex, interconnected and transnational, including terrorism, human trafficking and migrant smuggling, public health vulnerabilities, and cybercrime targeting critical infrastructure. He noted that the Horn of Africa in particular continues to face multidimensional challenges such as violent extremism, protracted conflicts, irregular migration and climate-related pressures, warning that non-state armed groups exploit governance gaps and threaten regional peace and development. African solutions and stronger regional cooperation are essential, and sustainable peace requires progress across security, development and governance—not security measures alone, the Speaker added. In this respect, Ethiopia is intensifying efforts to combat trafficking and irregular migration through stronger governance frameworks and enhanced regional cooperation, while promoting safe, orderly and regular migration and dismantling criminal networks.   He linked health security to national stability, citing lessons from recent pandemics that show resilient health systems are strategic assets. Furthermore, the House Speaker highlighted Ethiopia’s investment in future-shaping technologies, including artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, innovation ecosystems and human capital development—guided by responsible and human-centered Artificial intelligence principles. Tagesse said Ethiopia is advancing its Digital Ethiopia 2030 agenda to strengthen cybersecurity and build a secure, trusted digital ecosystem. The House Speaker added that energy security and critical minerals are emerging as key issues of the 21st century, urging governance guided by equity, transparency and sustainability; and partnerships that ensure resources translate into shared prosperity rather than competition. The U.S Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ervin Massinga, said security threats are increasingly global, interconnected and rapidly evolving, making international cooperation indispensable.   According to him, parliamentarians can strengthen security by shaping laws, allocating resources and promoting cross-border cooperation. Information sharing is critical to counter transnational cybercrime and trafficking in this regard. Ambassador Massinga cautioned that opaque agreements and surveillance-related arrangements can carry risks for governance and sovereignty, urging harmonized legal frameworks, stronger law enforcement cooperation and enhanced cross-border data sharing. He reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to deepening partnership with Ethiopia on shared security challenges. For his part, U.S. Congressman Robert Pittenger told journalists that the forum offers Ethiopia an opportunity to present the direction and priorities of its leadership to the world. He pledged support through technology tools and legislative insight, framing democracy as a driver of opportunity, job creation and long-term stability.   The Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum is a leading international security forum providing expertise and collaboration among parliamentarians and government officials to increase the United States’ allies understanding of the current global security threats posed by adversarial nation states and terrorists, while creating actionable solutions that counter these threats. Parliamentarians, who write the legislation and fund the government, are a critical player in this mission, it believes.

Addis Ababa, July 10, 2026 (ENA) — Religious leaders from Ethiopia’s faith communities have voiced firm support for the national dialogue, describing it as an unmatched opportunity to resolve deep-rooted grievances and foster a lasting culture of tolerance and peaceful debate. In an exclusive interview with ENA, faith leaders emphasized that national dialogue must lead the country out of cycles of conflict and suffering. Ibrahim Mulushewa, board member of the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia and representative of Islamic Affairs, emphasized that the culture of having political dialogue needs to be strengthened. According to him, the periods the country passed without war were very few, and the root of all these problems is a lack of dialogue. He added that “What we need now is a national dialogue to remove the illusions and destructive conflicts that have brought us to where we are.” Daniel Seifemichael, Head of Communications Affairs for the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church Holy Synod, for his part, emphasized that applying longstanding customary and religious dispute-resolution practices at the national level is crucial to have an enduring peace.   “Resolving national problems in a national way is a major opportunity and a major responsibility,” he added. “By holding the dialogue in the proper spirit and on the right values, we give those discussions real meaning. If we respect the values and identities participants bring, I believe we can solve our problems through mediation and dialogue”, Daniel told. Ashebir Ketema, External Relations Director for the Ethiopian Council of Gospel Believers Churches, highlighted the commission’s grassroots reach. “Since the National Dialogue Commission began its activity about four years ago, believers and churches have participated through prayer, presence, and consultative assemblies,” he noted. “It went down to the level of woredas, reaching the people, touching their suffering and grief, and addressing issues that had long been neglected. The benefit will have large, significant inputs into the nation”, Ashebir stated. Mekdem Geremew, Head of Administration and Strategy at the Catholic Bishops Conference General Secretariat, also described the process as a moral mandate. “Religious institutions should speak the truth. The truth is love. The truth is justice,” he said. “This national level dialogue is a hope for the next generation, and we have a responsibility to realize that hope”, Mekdim said. The National Dialogue Commission expects some 4,000 participants, including diaspora representatives, to convene at the Addis International Convention Centre and nearby accommodations. With eight main agenda items set for detailed deliberation, religious leaders urged participants to embrace respectful exchange and a shared commitment to implementation, saying dialogue offers the clearest path to sustainable peace.

Addis Ababa, July 10, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia on Friday called for stronger international partnerships and renewed commitment to multilateral cooperation to confront an increasingly complex global security environment. Lawmakers, intelligence officials, cybersecurity experts, and policymakers from across the world convened in Addis Ababa for the Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum (PI-SF). The two-day forum, hosted at House of People's Representatives, brings together parliamentarians from several countries, heads of intelligence and security institutions, senior cybersecurity specialists, representatives of international financial institutions, and technology companies to discuss evolving global threats ranging from terrorism and cybercrime to artificial intelligence and geopolitical instability.   Ethiopia was selected to host the gathering in recognition of its strategic diplomatic role within Africa's peace and security architecture, as well as its growing leadership in digital transformation and technology governance. The country is the second African nation to host the forum after Kenya. Opening the event, Speaker of House of People's Representatives Tagesse Chaffo stressed that today's security threats transcend national borders and require collective action. "Collective security is increasingly interconnected, and solutions to our shared challenges will depend on partnership, trust, solidarity, and a renewed commitment to multilateral cooperation," he said. The Speaker noted that the forum reflects a growing international recognition that intelligence and security governance must be anchored in democratic oversight, accountability, public trust, and effective parliamentary engagement. He described the gathering as particularly significant because legislatures play a central role in approving security budgets, enacting legislation, and ensuring oversight of intelligence institutions. Tagesse said the forum comes at an important moment for Ethiopia following what he described as peaceful and transparent general elections, reaffirming the country's commitment to constitutional governance, democracy, and the rule of law.   He warned that the global security landscape has become increasingly interconnected, with terrorism, cybercrime, human trafficking, migrant smuggling, public health emergencies, and attacks on critical infrastructure posing shared challenges that no country can address alone. Speaking the Horn of Africa, the Speaker said the region continues to face violent extremism, protracted conflicts, irregular migration, climate-related pressures, and governance gaps that are exploited by non-state armed groups and terrorist organizations. While emphasizing the importance of strengthened regional and international security cooperation, he stressed that lasting peace requires addressing the root causes of instability. The speaker also stressed the need for addressing poverty, unemployment, exclusion, weak governance, and limited economic opportunities for lasting peace and security. He reaffirmed Ethiopia's commitment to regional peace initiatives and combating transnational threats through a prevention-oriented approach that strengthens governance, combats human trafficking and irregular migration, and safeguards human dignity while promoting safe, orderly, and regular migration. Highlighting the growing link between health security and national stability, Tagesse said Ethiopia is reinforcing disease surveillance, emergency preparedness, and rapid response systems as part of its broader national security strategy.   He also underscored Ethiopia's investments in digital transformation through its Digital Ethiopia 2030 agenda, saying the country is advancing responsible, human-centered artificial intelligence while strengthening cybersecurity resilience. The Speaker further pointed to rising concerns surrounding energy security and critical minerals, calling for governance founded on equity, transparency, sustainability, and mutual benefit. He expressed confidence that the Parliamentary Intelligence-Security Forum would strengthen collaboration to enhance collective responses to emerging global challenges. Addressing the forum, U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia Ervin Massinga said today's security threats are increasingly global, interconnected, and rapidly evolving, making international cooperation indispensable. He noted that parliamentarians occupy a unique position in strengthening national and international security by shaping legislation, allocating resources, and promoting cross-border cooperation. Massinga stressed that information sharing has become essential to counter transnational cybercrime, trafficking networks, and other cross-border criminal activities. He also emphasized the importance of transparency, cautioning that opaque agreements, dual-use technology exports, and surveillance-related arrangements could pose risks to governance and national sovereignty.   Calling for harmonized legal frameworks, stronger law enforcement cooperation, and enhanced cross-border data sharing, the ambassador reaffirmed the United States' commitment to deepening its partnership with Ethiopia in addressing shared security challenges.

Addis Ababa, July 9, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia has launched a landmark regional scholarship programme in forensic science named after the Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu. The move aimed at strengthening scientific criminal investigations, advancing justice systems and enhancing regional security cooperation across the Horn of Africa. The Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu Scholarship Programme in Forensic Science, established by the Ethiopian Federal Police (EFP), was officially inaugurated at the Crime Investigation Academy of the Ethiopian Police University in Sandafa. The initiative will provide advanced education and practical forensic training to outstanding students from IGAD member states, helping build a new generation of forensic scientists and law enforcement professionals. According to the Ethiopian Federal Police, the scholarship recognizes Dr. Workneh's distinguished public service and his sustained contribution to regional integration, peace and institutional cooperation throughout the IGAD region. "Recognizing Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu's unwavering commitment to regional integration and his dedicated service to the peoples of the IGAD region, the Ethiopian Federal Police has established the Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu Scholarship Programme in Forensic Science," the EFP said in a statement.   The programme seeks to cultivate future forensic specialists and criminal justice professionals who embody the values of public service, integrity, innovation and perseverance that have defined Dr. Workneh's career. Designed to address growing demand for forensic expertise, the scholarship will offer comprehensive academic training, hands-on laboratory experience and professional placements for talented students pursuing careers in forensic science and law enforcement. The initiative is expected to enhance investigative capacity, improve evidence-based policing and strengthen judicial institutions across the region. Speaking during the inauguration, Workneh expressed gratitude for the recognition, describing the scholarship as an investment in justice and public trust. "Investing in forensic science is investing in justice. It protects victims, strengthens prosecutions and builds public confidence in law enforcement," he said. He called for the programme to prioritize merit, gender equality and geographic inclusiveness while encouraging sustained investment to ensure its long-term impact.   The Ethiopian Federal Police said the scholarship combines academic excellence with practical training through accredited forensic laboratories, courtroom skills development and mentorship by experienced investigators. Graduates are expected to play a critical role in strengthening forensic services and modernizing criminal investigations in their respective countries. Officials added that the programme will promote the adoption of advanced forensic technologies, including DNA analysis and digital forensics, while fostering collaboration among universities, law enforcement agencies and international forensic institutions. The EFP also pledged to ensure transparency through an open and merit-based selection process overseen by an independent advisory mechanism involving academia, the judiciary, civil society and development partners. The first intake of scholarship recipients is expected to begin following the opening of applications next month, with opportunities available at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Since assuming office as IGAD Executive Secretary in 2019, Workneh has led regional initiatives focused on peacebuilding, security, economic integration and cross-border cooperation among the bloc's eight member states.   Prior to joining IGAD, he served as Ethiopia's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of Transport, holding several senior leadership positions throughout his public service career. The scholarship is widely seen as a significant step toward building regional expertise in forensic science, reinforcing the rule of law and deepening security cooperation among IGAD member states as they confront increasingly sophisticated forms of transnational crime.

Addis Ababa, July 9, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia has concluded a strong and active participation in the 62nd Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC62). The East African nation reaffirmed its commitment to promoting and protecting human rights through constructive dialogue, multilateral cooperation, and principled international engagement. The session, held at the United Nations Office in Geneva from 15 June to 8 July 2026, provided Ethiopia with a key platform to contribute to global human rights deliberations while demonstrating its growing leadership within the Council. Serving simultaneously as a Member of the Human Rights Council, a Member of the HRC Bureau, and Vice-President of the Council, Ethiopia played a prominent role throughout the session by chairing high-level meetings, participating in the Bureau's decision-making processes, and helping steer the Council's work on major human rights issues.   The Ethiopian delegation delivered national statements, took an active role in negotiations on draft resolutions, and closely coordinated with the African Group, the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), and the Like-Minded Group of Countries to advance common positions on key human rights priorities. Reflecting its broad engagement, Ethiopia also participated in more than 30 interactive dialogues and five high-level panel discussions, contributing to deliberations on a wide range of thematic and country-specific human rights issues. Ethiopia's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Office at Geneva and other International Organizations, Ambassador Tsegab Kebebew, highlighted the country's ongoing progress in democratic governance, peacebuilding, transitional justice, and the promotion and protection of human rights.   The ambassador reaffirmed Ethiopia's commitment to implementing the recommendations it accepted under the Universal Periodic Review (UPR). He also reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening the rule of law, expanding civic space, advancing sustainable development, and maintaining constructive engagement with the Human Rights Council, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), and all UN member states.   Ethiopia said its participation at HRC62 underscores the country's continued commitment to multilateralism and its determination to contribute meaningfully to global efforts.

Addis Ababa, July 9, 2026 (ENA) —The Ethiopian Federal Police and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) signed a landmark MoU aimed at deepening regional security cooperation across the Horn of Africa. The Memorandum of Understanding was signed in Sandafa, on the outskirts of Addis Ababa, by Ethiopian Federal Police Commissioner General Demelash Gebremichael and IGAD Executive Secretary Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Commissioner General Demelash said the partnership marks a significant step toward reinforcing regional peace and security.   Demelash noted that the agreement would enable Ethiopia to share the expertise and institutional experience gained through its recent police reforms with fellow IGAD member states. He stated that the agreement places the long-established Ethiopian Police University at the center of regional capacity-building efforts, providing specialized training, research, and joint academic programs for law enforcement personnel across the region. "The primary objective of this partnership is to promote regional peace and security by strengthening the professional capacity of law enforcement institutions through training, research, and collaborative studies," he said.   According to the Commissioner General, the MoU also establishes a framework for enhanced institutional cooperation and community policing. Demelash expressed hope that the agreement would enhance collaborative research and intelligence-sharing to better address terrorism, organized crime, and other cross-border security challenges. On his part, IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu hailed the Ethiopian Federal Police for its ongoing institutional transformation.   He described the agreement as a major milestone in advancing regional integration through enhanced security cooperation. "This partnership will provide law enforcement officers across the IGAD region with access to world-class forensic training, marking a strategic shift toward utilizing regional expertise to strengthen our collective security frameworks," he said. Workneh added that investing in regional knowledge, professional training, and institutional collaboration is essential to addressing the increasingly complex security challenges facing the Horn of Africa. The President of the Ethiopian Police University, Tamrat Mulugeta, said the agreement will significantly enhance the professional capacity of regional security institutions by facilitating joint training programs, collaborative research, and the modernization of information-sharing systems.   The partnership is expected to strengthen cooperation among IGAD member states, improve institutional resilience, and support coordinated responses to emerging security challenges, reinforcing regional efforts to promote lasting peace, stability, and sustainable development.

Addis Ababa, July 8, 2026 (ENA) - The MESOB one-stop service is a lasting legacy that has fundamentally changed public service delivery, Federal Civil Service Commissioner Mekuria Haile said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the Commissioner noted that modernizing public service delivery is indispensable for unlocking socio-economic growth. Consequently, the government has placed focus on executing deep-rooted civil service restructuring designed to enhance institutional efficiency and responsiveness. According to him, the Commission has therefore prioritized the building of robust institutions, optimizing administrative structures, embedding merit-based recruitment, and cultivating a highly inclusive and diverse civil service workforce. Among these reforms, the Commissioner highlighted the recently rolled-out the MESOB one-stop service as a flagship intervention uniquely designed to streamline administrative processes. The multi-service MESOB center became operational on April 26, 2025, with 106 centers across the various regions, he added. In addition to these, three mobile service units and an integrated digital application, named the Integrated Digital Service App, have been successfully deployed. These dynamic access centers are currently providing swift, transparent, and highly efficient services to the public. The operationalization of these systems has drastically improved delivery metrics, Commissioner Mekuria explained, adding that by eliminating bureaucratic hurdles, public trust in government institutions has substantially risen. Recent feedback assessments indicate that the satisfaction of citizens with the program has reached 98.8 percent, the Commissioner said. Beyond significantly driving down transaction costs and wait times, the MESOB model has fostered a renewed culture of hospitality among civil servants, while simultaneously improving the ease of doing business to attract investments. Beneficiaries utilizing the federal mobile units on their part testified that the unified service delivery approach has effectively cut red tape while saving time.

Addis Ababa, July 8, 2026 (ENA) —Thousands of participants from across Ethiopia and the diaspora have begun arriving in Addis Ababa ahead of the country's main National Dialogue forum. The dialogue which will officially open on July 15 at the Addis International Convention Center and is expected to run for about three to four weeks. The National Dialogue process, launched to build consensus on key national issues, has now entered its final and most decisive stage. Around 4,000 deliberators representing communities from across the country and the Ethiopian diaspora will take part in discussions on eight major national agenda items, with the aim of identifying lasting solutions through broad based dialogue.   In a press briefing, Reta Gera, emphasized that the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission's coordinator for regions, city administrations and the diaspora, said diaspora representatives from the United Arab Emirates, the United States, the United Kingdom and Sweden have already arrived in Addis Ababa. Participants from South Africa are expected to arrive on July 12, 2026. Before the official opening of the conference, Participants will participate in guided visits to historical landmarks in the capital on July 9 and 10, 2026, Reta said, adding that the tours, organized by the Addis Ababa City Administration, include the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum and the Red Terror Martyrs' Memorial Museum. The commission said participants will be accommodated at the Ethiopian Public Service University and other designated facilities. Comprehensive support services have been arranged, including transportation, healthcare, meals, childcare and other essential amenities. Special arrangements have also been made to ensure accessibility and provide additional support for participants with disabilities and others requiring special assistance.   Earlier, Chief Commissioner Prof. Mesfin Araya announced that all preparations for the main conference had been completed. The conference will officially open at the Addis International Convention Center on July 15 and is expected to continue for between 22 and 30 days.

Addis Ababa, July 8, 2026 (ENA) — The forced conscription and abduction campaigns orchestrated by the illegal TPLF faction signal a total collapse of acceptance for the group, media professionals remarked. Journalists disclosed that forced roundups and kidnappings targeting civilians continue to escalate across the Tigray region, driven by personal gains seeking to secure narrow personal interests and agendas. The practice has met with stiff public resistance, proving that the regional community has completely withdrawn any lingering support for these actors, they added. Among those who shared their views with ENA, Awramba Times journalist Dawit Kebede explained that the individuals executing these operations are deeply entangled in lucrative personal interests linked to the gold and mineral trade. To safeguard these economic benefits, they are using the pretext of facilitating the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) as a political smokescreen, Dawit noted. "I do not believe they care about the public for even a split second," Dawit asserted, adding that their current maneuvers have been roundly rejected by the community. Consequent to this loss of popular legitimacy, they have resorted to violence, aggressively rounding up youth and forcing them into training camps. The journalist further detailed that the situation has deteriorated to the point where public transport buses are being intercepted to pull young people off the streets, describing the trend as profoundly tragic. Similarly, journalist Hermon Fekadu strongly condemned the ongoing operations being carried out by extremist TPLF leaders and destructive elements. In this day and age, abducting and conscripting citizens by force to fulfill the propaganda desires is utterly unacceptable and constitutes a highly deplorable act, she noted. Underscoring the gravity of the abuse, Hermon remarked that it defies reason to fathom what objective could possibly justify kidnapping human beings, calling the practice a primitive mindset and a severe crime. The Public Relations Head of the Tinsae Seb'a Enderta Party, Abraham Tsige, stated that the group has failed to learn from its past blunders. He noted that because the public has firmly declared "enough is enough" and refused to be dragged into another disaster, the faction’s political relevance has entirely expired. Abraham pointed out that the current reliance on coercive tactics is a direct symptom of their total alienation from the population, proving that the public has completely disowned them. The official concluded that while the faction had long been losing its grip on the people of Tigray, the current crisis marks the final and absolute demise of their acceptance within the region.

Addis Ababa, July 8, 2026 (ENA)—Participants at a forum on "Peace, Democracy, and Development in Tigray: The Role of Media and Social Activists" have called for the immediate end of the ongoing forced military conscription in the region. The participants further warned that any return to armed conflict would trigger another devastating humanitarian catastrophe. The forum, held in Addis Ababa, brought together media professionals, social activists, and other stakeholders from Ethiopia's Tigray Region. At the conclusion of the meeting, participants adopted a joint communiqué reaffirming their commitment to peace, constitutional order, democratic dialogue, and the protection of civilians. In the communiqué sent to ENA, participants said the people of Tigray continue to endure the long-lasting consequences of war, including displacement, economic hardship, institutional disruption, and humanitarian challenges. They stressed that peace in the region remains fragile and cautioned that renewed hostilities would have devastating consequences not only for Tigray but also for Ethiopia and the wider Horn of Africa. "The immense suffering endured by mothers, fathers, youth, children, displaced families, war-disabled citizens, unemployed graduates, farmers, civil servants, and other vulnerable members of society must never be repeated," the communiqué stated. The participants emphasized that no political objective can justify renewed violence, forced mobilization, hate speech, intimidation, or the suppression of peaceful voices. They also underscored that the dignity, security and future of the people must remain above political rivalries or military ambitions.   The forum expressed particular concern over reports of the abduction and forced military recruitment of young people in parts of Tigray, describing such practices as unacceptable and calling for their immediate cessation. Recalled that from the United States’ decision to impose targeted visa restrictions on defunct TPLF members and their families to Human Rights Watch’s strong condemnation of alleged forced conscription in Tigray, the international message is increasingly unified. According to the communiqué, forced conscription lacks both legal and moral justification and risks exposing another generation to the devastating human cost of conflict. Participants pledged to use their professional platforms and social media engagement to oppose forced recruitment and amplify the voices of civilians advocating for peace. The communiqué also called on media institutions, journalists, editors, broadcasters, digital content creators, and social activists to reject hate speech, disinformation, inflammatory propaganda, and narratives that incite violence or militarization. Instead, participants urged the media to uphold professional and responsible journalism by promoting factual reporting. They also underscored the importance of promoting constitutional order, constructive public discourse, and public-interest reporting focused on humanitarian recovery, food security, livelihood restoration, access to healthcare and education and among others. Political leaders in Tigray were likewise urged to place the welfare and future of the people above partisan interests by resolving differences through peaceful dialogue, constitutional processes, and inclusive civic engagement.   The communiqué further appealed to the Federal Government to continue utilizing constitutional, political, humanitarian, and administrative mechanisms to prevent renewed conflict, protect civilians, facilitate the implementation of existing peace commitments, expand humanitarian assistance, restore essential public services, and create conditions for peaceful and lawful governance in the region. The participants also called for intensified efforts to strengthen food security, support the safe resettlement of internally displaced persons, protect young people from renewed military mobilization, and accelerate sustainable recovery. In addition, the forum appealed to development partners, humanitarian organizations, religious institutions, community elders, women and youth groups, civil society organizations, and the wider Ethiopian public to support peacebuilding, humanitarian recovery, institutional normalization, and long-term development in Tigray. Concluding their deliberations, participants reaffirmed that lasting peace requires justice, accountable leadership, democratic dialogue, and respect for human dignity. They pledged to promote peace-oriented journalism, fact-based reporting, civic education, and responsible communication while rejecting narratives that normalize war, forced conscription, hate speech, and political intimidation. The communiqué concluded with a collective appeal affirming that the people of Tigray deserve peace, security, justice, development, and hope, while urging all responsible institutions to act decisively to prevent a return to conflict and end the suffering of civilians.

Addis Ababa, July 7, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov this evening, reaffirming the longstanding partnership between Ethiopia and Russia while exploring new avenues to deepen bilateral cooperation. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral relations and identifying new opportunities for collaboration across areas of mutual interest. "It was a pleasure to meet with Sergey Lavrov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, and his delegation this evening, during which our discussions focused on bilateral relations and exploring new opportunities for cooperation," Prime Minister Abiy said following the meeting.   Lavrov arrived in Addis Ababa on Monday for an official working visit, underscoring the growing diplomatic engagement between Ethiopia and Russia at a time of shifting global geopolitical dynamics. During his visit, the Russian foreign minister is holding a series of high-level meetings aimed at enhancing political dialogue, expanding trade and economic ties, and strengthening cooperation on regional, continental, and international issues of shared interest. Earlier on Tuesday, Ethiopia's Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos also held official talks with Lavrov, where the two sides reviewed the current state of bilateral relations and discussed ways to broaden cooperation across key sectors.   Speaking after the meeting, Gedion emphasized that the enduring friendship between Ethiopia and Russia spans generations and continues to provide a solid foundation for the steady growth of bilateral ties.

Addis Ababa, July 7, 2026 (ENA) —The forced conscription of youth from schools, religious places, and streets by the extremist and destructive TPLF leaders is an inhumane and malevolent act, Getachew Reda, East African Affairs Advisor to the Prime Minister, said today. The Center for Responsible and Peaceful Politics (CRPP), in collaboration with Tigray Broadcasting Service (TBS), hosted a panel discussion titled "Peace, Democracy, and Development in Tigray: The Role of the Mass Media and Activists." The forum was attended by Deputy Director-General of the Media Authority, Yonatan Tesfaye, alongside other senior officials, journalists, and influencers. During the event, the Advisor underscored that this is the time that requires an unwavering commitment to making the peace and stability of Tigray an absolute priority. The vibrant developmental activities sweeping across other parts of the country must be replicated in Tigray, he stressed. The Advisor noted that the resilient and industrious people of Tigray should not remain sidelined from actively participating in socio-economic development because of a handful of extremist TPLF leaders. Getachew warned that these extremist leaders and destructive elements are actively plotting to plunge the people into another cycle of ruin and agony, calling upon the entire community to stand united to reverse this perilous trajectory. The youth, who saved the leadership itself from peril and firmly believe that peace must prevail, are being rounded up from schools, monasteries, churches, and mosques, he disclosed. On his part, Ethiopian Media Authority Deputy Director-General, Yonatan Tesfaye, emphasized that contemporary information dissemination—particularly reporting that amplifies the voices of citizens across various localities—must strictly align with the realities. The Deputy Director-General stated that what the nation genuinely aspires for is peace, democracy, and development; hence, media content must remain mindful of these goals while taking the concrete national and regional geopolitical contexts into account. The General Manager of Center for Responsible and Peaceful Politics, Samuel Abate, extended a call to all media practitioners and community activists to utilize their respective platforms with a profound sense of institutional responsibility. He underlined that any narrative or rhetoric that pushes the youth back into a vicious cycle of suffering must be fiercely resisted. The General Manager concluded by calling on all stakeholders to contribute their holistic share toward reconciliation, truth, democratic engagement, and citizen-centered development.

Addis Ababa, July 7, 2026 — Foreign Affairs Minister Gedion Timothewos and Russian Foreign Affairs Minister Sergey Lavrov held talks today. Foreign Minister Lavrov is on an official visit to Ethiopia. On the occasion, Gedion underscored that the longstanding friendship between Ethiopia and Russia spans generations and continues to serve as a strong foundation for the two countries' bilateral relations. The ministers exchanged views on current regional and global issues of mutual interest, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Beyond the longstanding political and diplomatic ties between the two countries, the ministers also discussed ways of further strengthening bilateral cooperation in the areas of trade, investment, and technology transfer. The two sides further emphasized the importance of enhancing cooperation within multilateral diplomatic platforms, including BRICS, and reaffirmed their commitment to closer coordination on issues of common interest.

Addis Ababa, July 7, 2026 — PM Abiy Ahmed has elaborated on the Pretoria Peace Agreement, emphasizing that the accord represents a heavy price paid to bring sustainable peace to Ethiopia and end the conflict in the Tigray Region. Addressing the House of People's Representatives today, the premier detailed the benefits of the agreement to the inhabitants of the region. He pointed out the establishment of the Interim Administration in the region and the demobilization, rehabilitation, and reintegration of more than 60,000 former combatants. Ongoing efforts to rebuild critical infrastructure and social institutions in the region also continue to yield benefits for the local population, he added. However, the PM said that disruptive actions persist in the region, noting that factions claiming to fight for the people have deprived the population of Tigray of peace, leaving them to bear the brunt of the hardship. "A struggle built on the tears of the people leads nowhere," he remarked, openly stating that certain ongoing disruptions in the Tigray region bear the fingerprints of foreign interference. He exposed that the instigators have secured their own children abroad or in Addis Ababa while actively deploying countless Tigrayan youth into the Sudanese conflict. Despite their repeated provocations to trigger a fresh round of conflict, the government continues to exercise utmost restraint and patience, the premier stressed. Beyond the TPLF, there are actors who believe that destruction in Tigray should have continued; these groups have distanced themselves from us in disagreement, while there have also been attempts among them to cooperate with one another, the Premier pointed out. “Currently, forces in Tigray are carrying out daily provocations that could trigger new conflicts and renewed war. The most painful and concerning issue, however, is that many Tigrayan youths are reportedly being forcibly recruited and sent to fight in the ongoing war in Sudan. These young people are losing their lives in a conflict they neither understand nor have any connection with. The problems within Ethiopia were not enough; the issue has now extended into Sudan as well.” Throughout this process, the people of Tigray are not the creators of the problem but rather the ones bearing its consequences, the Prime Minister noted. “ What has harmed the people of Tigray most and deepened their suffering is the presence of an unseen internal wound, one that is not easily healed. In reality, today there are more people of Tigrayan origin living peacefully and moving freely without fear in places such as Dessie, Gondar, Addis Ababa, and Adama than those living in Tigray itself." Noting that the government is fully aware of the root sources of instability, PM Abiy said that necessary measures will be taken to conclusively neutralize threats at their origin. He assured that the government possesses the absolute capability to safeguard Ethiopia’s sovereignty and maintain durable peace. The nation’s security and law enforcement organs stand in an unprecedented state of readiness, having bolstered their capacity in terms of numbers, training quality, and advanced technology, the Prime Minister confirmed.

Addis Ababa, July 7, 2026 —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has outlined a three-pillar doctrine of strategic self-reliance that he said will guide Ethiopia's foreign policy and national development amid an increasingly volatile global environment. The Prime Minister also underscored that the country will not permit external interference in its sovereign affairs. The Premier presented the framework while responding to lawmakers during the 30th Regular Session of the Fifth Year of the House of People's Representatives, where he addressed questions on the federal government's performance during the 2018 Ethiopian Fiscal Year. PM Abiy said the rapidly evolving global order requires Ethiopia to strengthen its ability to protect its national interests through its own capabilities rather than relying on external actors. "At a time when the world is undergoing undeniable changes, we are pursuing three key principles based on strategic self-reliance to safeguard Ethiopia's national interests, foreign policy, and sovereignty," the Prime Minister said. The Prime Minister elaborated that the first pillar is resilience, which focuses on building strong and capable national institutions that can withstand external pressures through Ethiopia's own political, economic and institutional capacity. " This pillar is about strengthening institutional capacity so that Ethiopia can confront external pressures through its own capabilities," he explained. Elaborating the other pillar, he noted that it is leveraging opportunities, the ability to transform challenges and crises into strategic opportunities that advance national development and strengthen Ethiopia's long-term interests. "The second is leveraging opportunities, which means turning every challenge we face into a strategic and positive opportunity for national development," PM Abiy noted. The third pillar is shaping Ethiopia's own path, he revealed that it enable the country to independently define its national priorities while confidently engaging with and influencing developments in regional and global affairs. "This is shaping our path, which allows Ethiopia to formulate its own national agenda and confidently engage with and influence international affairs," he said. Prime Minister Abiy emphasized that these three principles collectively form the foundation of Ethiopia's strategic outlook in an increasingly competitive international environment. "Guided by these three pillars, we will not allow any external actor to interfere in any of our national decisions," the Prime Minister declared. He said the government's approach seeks to strengthen Ethiopia's sovereignty by enhancing institutional resilience, maximizing national opportunities and ensuring that the country's policies are determined by its own interests and constitutional priorities. The Prime Minister's remarks come as Ethiopia continues implementing wide-ranging political and economic reforms while seeking to expand regional cooperation and strengthen its role in continental and global affairs. He finally reaffirmed that strategic self-reliance will remain a central pillar of Ethiopia's domestic and foreign policy, enabling the country to protect its sovereignty, pursue sustainable development and engage with the international community from a position of confidence and national independence.

Addis Ababa, July 7, 2026 —Ethiopia's guiding principle in diplomacy is to safeguard the country's decision-making sovereignty, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed noted today, emphasizing that preventing external actors from interfering in matters of national interest remains a paramount priority. Ethiopia is not a nation that succumbs easily to external pressure, he explained, stating that the country's strategic posture on the global stage is anchored upon fundamental pillars. Based on these fundamentals, the country has been building robust institutions and a strong nation, effectively converting emerging challenges into strategic opportunities and formulating and advancing independent agendas rather than being driven by external dynamics, he added. Elaborating on foreign policy and regional dynamics, PM Abiy observed that the contemporary global landscape has become highly fluid, unpredictable, and structurally complex across multiple domains. In such an intricate and volatile global context, relying on a rigid, singular template is impractical, the PM noted, emphasized that the ultimate benchmark must be an agile, action-oriented diplomatic framework centered squarely on the national interest.

Addis Ababa, July 7, 2026 —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has described Ethiopia's National Dialogue process as a historic opportunity to address Ethiopia's long-standing political challenges and establish a new, inclusive national social contract. The Premier also called on all political actors to engage constructively in shaping the country's future. The Prime Minister made the remarks while responding to lawmakers during the 30th Regular Session of the Fifth Year of the House of People's Representatives, where he presented the federal government's performance report for the 2018 Ethiopian Fiscal Year and answered questions on governance, national reconciliation and key policy priorities. Addressing the parliament, PM Abiy said the national dialogue is the product of immense national sacrifice and should be embraced as a rare opportunity to build lasting peace and consensus. "The national dialogue is a historic opportunity secured through the heavy sacrifices of many Ethiopians. It must not be taken lightly, but utilized to its fullest potential," he told lawmakers. The Prime Minister stressed that Ethiopia must move away from a culture of overlooking valuable opportunities only to regret them later, noting that the country should act decisively while opportunities for reconciliation and reform are available. He also emphasized that the dialogue is not being rushed, explaining that the house granted additional time to ensure the process remains inclusive, credible and responsive to public expectations. PM Abiy further noted that the national dialogue is distinguished by its grassroots foundation, having been shaped through extensive public consultations and agendas gathered from communities across the country. "This process originates directly from the people. Because it is built on grassroots participation and public priorities, it represents an important democratic exercise not only for Ethiopia but also as a model for the African continent," he said. The Prime Minister stated that the dialogue seeks to confront Ethiopia's long-standing historical grievances through peaceful deliberation, with the ultimate goal of forging a renewed social contract founded on national consensus, mutual respect and constitutional governance. He underscored that many of the issues under discussion are historical in nature and were inherited over generations rather than created by the current administration. "The challenges before us are deep-rooted historical burdens. They cannot be resolved overnight, but they can be addressed through sincere dialogue and collective national commitment," PM Abiy said. Calling for broad political participation, the Prime Minister urged opposition parties, political leaders living abroad and other stakeholders to move beyond entrenched political divisions. He stressed the need for contributing constructively to the dialogue process. He said resolving Ethiopia's complex national questions requires the involvement of all citizens and political actors committed to peaceful solutions and democratic coexistence. The Premier further explained that the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission will consolidate the recommendations gathered from citizens nationwide and formally present them to the government. He pledged that the government would carefully consider the Commission's recommendations and work with relevant institutions to adopt reforms capable of building lasting national consensus and strengthening democratic governance. The Prime Minister's remarks come as Ethiopia prepares for a major milestone in the reconciliation process, with the country's principal National Dialogue Forum scheduled to convene on July 15, 2026. The forum is expected to bring together representatives from diverse sectors of society to deliberate on key national issues and lay the groundwork for a shared vision of Ethiopia's future. Prime Minister Abiy reaffirmed that genuine and inclusive dialogue remains the most sustainable path toward overcoming historical divisions, strengthening national unity and building a peaceful, stable and prosperous Ethiopia for future generations.

Addis Ababa, July 7, 2026 —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said conflicts among communities have declined significantly in recent years as the government has expanded public dialogue and citizen engagement. The Prime Minister described inclusive consultation as one of the country's most effective tools for strengthening peace and national cohesion. The Prime Minister made the remarks today while responding to lawmakers during the 30th Regular Session of the Fifth Year of the House of People's Representatives, where he presented the federal government's performance report for the 2018 Ethiopian Fiscal Year and answered questions on security, governance and national development. Addressing Parliament, PM Abiy said Ethiopia has made notable progress in reducing community and interfaith tensions by creating broader platforms for dialogue, allowing citizens to peacefully voice concerns and participate in addressing national challenges. "Conflicts that once frequently emerged among communities have become increasingly rare because people are choosing dialogue over confrontation," the Prime Minister told lawmakers. According to Abiy, he has personally led more than 225 public dialogue forums involving diverse sections of Ethiopian society, while the ruling Prosperity Party has facilitated over 4,000 dialogue forums at national, regional and local levels.   He added that the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission has also conducted extensive consultations involving more than 100,000 participants across Ethiopia and among members of the Ethiopian diaspora. The Prime Minister said the growing culture of dialogue has substantially reduced conflicts between communities and religious groups, describing it as a major achievement in Ethiopia's democratic and peacebuilding efforts. While acknowledging that security challenges remain in some parts of the country, PM Abiy argued that many of the current conflicts are driven not by genuine public grievances but by armed groups backed by actors seeking to destabilize Ethiopia. "The conflicts we are witnessing today are not driven by clear national objectives or the public interest. They are the result of a profitable conspiracy," he said. He further alleged that both domestic and foreign actors continue to provide financial and logistical support to armed groups in an effort to undermine Ethiopia's peace and stability. Despite these challenges, the Prime Minister said the government's approach will continue to prioritize dialogue and reconciliation while strengthening the capacity of national security institutions. Ethiopia's security institutions have made considerable progress in personnel development, operational capability and technological modernization, enabling them to respond more effectively to evolving security threats, he noted. The Premier further noted, however, that many armed groups increasingly rely on unconventional tactics, making cooperation between citizens and law enforcement agencies essential to preventing violence and safeguarding communities.   Reflecting on Ethiopia's political history, Prime Minister Abiy said decades of fragmentation have left enduring challenges that require sustained national dialogue rather than military solutions alone. "We must create spaces where people can freely raise their grievances and discuss them. This is essential to preventing recurring divisions and building a stronger democratic order," he said. The Prime Minister further stressed that expanding democratic participation and maintaining continuous public engagement remain central to the government's long-term peace strategy. "When we hold more discussions and deepen democracy, conflicts will continue to decline," he stated. Prime Minister Abiy concluded by reaffirming that inclusive dialogue, strengthened institutions and active citizen participation are laying the foundation for lasting peace, national unity and democratic stability across Ethiopia. He also emphasized that the government's commitment to consultation will remain at the center of its efforts to resolve remaining security challenges.