Addis Ababa, July 30, 2026 (ENA) —Foreign Minister Gedion Timotheos held talks with the Minister of External Relations of Cameroon, Lejeune Mbella Mbella, on bilateral and continental issues today. As the countries prepare to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, they discussed ways to strengthen economic cooperation beyond their existing political and diplomatic ties. Cameroon's Minister of External Relations, Lejeune Mbella Mbella, congratulated Ethiopia on the successful hosting of the 49th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union. He also expressed his support and appreciation for Ethiopia's decision aimed at strengthening the African Union's financial capacity.

Addis Ababa, July 30, 2026 (ENA) — Participants of the National Dialogue Conference said that they are freely forwarding ideas that build the nation and bring about national consensus. With every perspective given equal weight, this collective process is playing a pivotal role in shaping long-term consensus. The participants emphasized that the forum will lay a solid foundation for a stronger Ethiopia, offering immense promise to usher the country into a new chapter of enduring peace and prosperity. One of the participants, Mohammed Amin Mahadi highlighted the inclusive nature of the national dialogue, noting that representatives from all walks of life are taking part in a free discussion. He emphasized that participants are freely forwarding constructive ideas that strengthen nation-building efforts and forge national consensus. With every perspective given equal weight, this collective dialogue is playing a vital role in building long-term consensus on critical national priorities. Mohammed added that the forum lays a solid foundation for a stronger Ethiopia, offering immense promise to guide the country into a new era of enduring peace and development. For his part, Gizaw Kebede noted that the dialogue is progressing smoothly across all levels by ensuring that every viewpoint is integrated into the discussions and extensive are held. Nebiyou Mihretu underscored the inclusive nature of the consultation process, which involved broad cross-section of the society. He added that the process is actively building trust, unity, and a shared sense of purpose as delegates work together to craft constructive solutions for the nation's future. Nebiyou expressed deep confidence that the talks will deepen solidarity and brotherhood among all Ethiopians, ultimately paving the way for enduring peace.

Addis Ababa, July 30, 2026 (ENA) — The bilateral cooperation between Ethiopia and Kenya is expanding across multiple sectors, according to Musalia Mudavadi, Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs. Speaking to ENA, Mudavadi said the longstanding relationship between the two countries is expected to strengthen further. In this regard, he pointed to the ongoing and planned initiatives involving regional connectivity, energy, and private-sector investment. The Prime Cabinet Secretary cited the LAPSSET Corridor program as an example, describing it as a multi-country effort involving Ethiopia, South Sudan and Kenya to improve access to ports and transport corridors in the region. Mudavadi said Ethiopia and Kenya have been working on plans to expand the Port of Lamu and link infrastructure that will support broader regional integration, including routes reaching South Sudan and Ethiopia. The LAPSSET Corridor program “will also connect into Ethiopia, so that we can provide an additional access to the sea for Ethiopia through LAPSSET. It is a program that involves Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Kenya,” he elaborated. On energy cooperation, Mudavadi said Kenya has already signed power purchase and supply arrangements with Ethiopia, enabling Kenya to source electricity generated from Ethiopia’s hydro projects. He stated that transmission lines have been built to facilitate power transfer from Ethiopia to Kenya, with some lines extending further toward Tanzania. “The transmission lines have been built so that we get power from Ethiopia into Kenya; and we see some of those power lines taking it even into Tanzania. So you can see this relationship is going to become very big because our economies are becoming integrated,” Mudavadi said. He further noted the growing business ties between the countries, mentioning the investment of Safaricom, which Mudavadi said is a sign of confidence driven by improved cooperation between the two countries. The Prime Cabinet Secretary affirmed that the partnerships are set to grow as the economies of Ethiopia and Kenya become increasingly integrated.

Addis Ababa, July 30, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopian Federal Police (EFP) extradited an alleged human trafficking kingpin from Malawi following a joint international operation involving Interpol and Malawian law enforcement. The move marks a significant breakthrough in Ethiopia’s efforts to dismantle transnational trafficking networks operating across eastern and southern Africa. The suspect, Adnew Bashaw, was arrested in Malawi and transferred to Ethiopian custody on July 29, 2026, where he will face trial over allegations of orchestrating a large-scale trafficking network accused of exploiting vulnerable Ethiopian migrants through fraud, extortion, torture, and forced smuggling routes toward South Africa. According to the Ethiopian Federal Police, investigators compiled extensive evidence, including witness testimonies and documentary records, indicating that Adnew and his associates targeted young people in the Central Ethiopia Regional State, particularly in the Hadiya and Kembata zones.   Promising lucrative employment and a transformed future, the network systematically lured victims into illegal southern migration routes bound for South Africa. Police records also indicated that the syndicate extorted between 600,000 and 800,000 Birr per victim, requiring an upfront non-refundable deposit of at least 100,000 Birr transferred through local bank accounts prior to departure. The journey exposed victims to brutal conditions. Smuggled across the border into Kenya via Moyale, migrants were hidden deep within the Gambo forest, subjected to extreme starvation and dehydration under meager daily rations of rice and bread. Under threat of violence, victims were then forced to cross the arid Chalbi Desert on foot and by motorbike. Upon reaching Nairobi, migrants were held hostage in cramped, covert safehouses. Traffickers systematically tortured the victims to extort additional ransoms from their families back home. Those unable to pay immediately were beaten, threatened with execution, and subjected to electric shocks, forcing desperate families to deposit extra sums exceeding 100,000 Birr to local proxies in Ethiopia.   From Nairobi, the victims were crammed into cargo containers, trailers, and covered flatbed trucks bound for Mombasa and Tanzania, where many were ultimately abandoned in remote wilderness areas. Police documentation indicates that the vast majority never reached South Africa. Intercepted by regional law enforcement, victims faced illegal entry charges in transit countries, serving prison sentences of up to three years and paying fines reaching 170,000 Birr before being deported back to Ethiopia. Following an exhaustive multi-year intelligence tracking operation launched in 2022/23 alongside Interpol, Malawian law enforcement apprehended Adnew and formally handed him over to Ethiopian authorities on July 29, 2026.   Reaffirming its resolve to dismantle international human trafficking networks, the Ethiopian Federal Police urged the public to maintain active vigilance and report suspicious activities via the EFPApp, emergency line 991, or the SPS platform.

Speaker of Azerbaijan’s Milli Majlis (National Assembly), Sahiba Gafarova, has described Ethiopia as a strategic partner for Azerbaijan’s expanding engagement with Africa. Speaking at a high-level fireside chat hosted by Ethiopia’s Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA), Gafarova praised the country’s leadership in promoting dialogue, cooperation, and continental unity. She reaffirmed Azerbaijan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Ethiopia and broadening cooperation with the African continent through parliamentary diplomacy, academic partnership, and regional collaboration. “Ethiopia plays a significant role in advancing dialogue, cooperation, and unity across Africa. Azerbaijan values Ethiopia as a trusted partner and remains committed to strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation with the African continent,” she said.   The event, held under the theme: “Parliamentary Diplomacy, Regional Dynamics, and International Cooperation,” brought together diplomats, lawmakers, scholars, and policy experts to exchange perspectives on enhancing bilateral engagement and addressing shared strategic priorities. Gafarova emphasized that parliamentary diplomacy has become an increasingly influential instrument in international relations, helping promote transparency, accountability, mutual understanding, and sustainable development. “Strengthening cooperation among parliaments is not simply an institutional task; it is an investment in our common future,” she said. “The decisions we make today will shape the world that future generations inherit,” the speaker added. Reflecting on her official visit to Ethiopia, Gafarova said the trip had deepened her understanding of the country and further strengthened the longstanding friendship between Ethiopia and Azerbaijan. She recalled her meetings with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Speaker of the House of People’s Representatives Tagese Chafo, describing the discussions as constructive and reflective of both countries’ determination to elevate bilateral relations to a new level.   The Azerbaijani parliamentary speaker stressed that cooperation and dialogue are indispensable in an increasingly interconnected world, arguing that countries must work together to address common global and regional challenges. She also welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Institute of Foreign Affairs and Azerbaijan’s ADA University, saying the agreement would strengthen academic collaboration, expand knowledge exchange, and deepen people-to-people ties between the two countries. Gafarova noted that her visit to Ethiopia’s Mesob One-Stop Service Center highlighted the government’s commitment to efficient, citizen-centered public service delivery and reflected the country’s ongoing public sector reforms.   Highlighting Ethiopia’s broader regional role, she said the country has emerged as a key force in advancing dialogue, cooperation, and unity across Africa, making it a valuable partner for Azerbaijan’s long-term engagement with the continent.    

Addis Ababa, July 30, 2026 (ENA) —American geopolitical analyst Andrew Korybko has warned that the Eritrean regime's proxy strategy could further destabilize the Horn of Africa, fuel insecurity and threaten regional stability. In his recent article, "Eritrea's Hybrid War on Ethiopia Threatens To Set The Whole Horn Ablaze," Korybko contends that Eritrea's policies under Isaias Afwerki are driven by a strategic objective of preventing Ethiopia from emerging as a strong regional power. Drawing on recent developments, the analyst argues that Eritrea's strategy has included alleged support for anti-peace armed groups, contributing to the persistence of conflicts and instability across the Horn of Africa. Korybko's assessment aligns with observations made by Getachew Reda, Adviser to Prime Minister on East African Affairs, during the Ethiopian National Defense College's Annual National Security Conference held in late June. Getachew underscored that Eritrea's strategic calculations are based on ensuring that Ethiopia remains politically and economically weakened. "Eritrea conceptualizes its security as being ensured by a weak Ethiopia," Korybko wrote. He characterized Eritrea's actions as a form of hybrid warfare, combining political pressure, covert support for insurgent groups, and efforts to hinder Ethiopia's economic progress and national cohesion. The analyst further argued that Addis Ababa has repeatedly proposed expanding economic cooperation with Eritrea—including reported offers involving strategic investments and infrastructure partnerships linked to reliable and unrestricted access to the sea. However, these initiatives were rejected by Asmara, the America analyst stated. According to Korybko, closer economic integration would not only strengthen Ethiopia's economy but also accelerate regional development, making such cooperation strategically undesirable from Eritrea's perspective. He noted that Ethiopian advocates a dual-track response centered on accelerating national development and infrastructure projects while intensifying diplomatic efforts to secure sea access and strengthen regional cooperation. Korybko also argued that the Horn of Africa's security landscape has become increasingly complex due to Egypt's strategic alignment with Eritrea. He claimed that Cairo is using Eritrea as a proxy to contain Ethiopia, transforming longstanding bilateral disputes into a broader geopolitical challenge with implications for the entire region. "The real threat to regional peace comes from Egypt, but the most direct one comes from Eritrea," Korybko wrote, warning that the Horn of Africa risks becoming another theater of proxy competition with potentially far-reaching consequences. Drawing parallels with geopolitical rivalries in other regions, the analyst cautioned that continued tensions could heighten the risk of wider conflict unless addressed through sustained diplomacy, regional dialogue, and confidence-building measures. Korybko concluded that Ethiopia should continue strengthening its economic resilience, national development, and diplomatic engagement while remaining vigilant to evolving regional security challenges. He further warned that unless Eritrea changes its current course or the international community takes more decisive steps to encourage de-escalation, the Horn of Africa's fragile peace could come under increasing strain, with consequences extending well beyond the region.

Addis Ababa, July 29, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia and Kenya have voluntarily agreed to increase their annual statutory contributions to the African Union (AU) to First Category Member State level, marking a major highlight of the 49th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council. The decision, spanning the 2027–2029 assessment cycle under the Union's harmonized contribution system, stands out as a concrete demonstration of Pan-African solidarity and commitment to a financially autonomous African Union. Closing the two-day ministerial session in Addis Ababa, Chairperson of the AU Executive Council and Burundi’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Development Cooperation, Édouard Bizimana, expressed optimism that it will inspire other member states to strengthen collective efforts toward a financially self-reliant Union anchored on predictable and long-term financing. He urged member states to implement all decisions adopted during the meeting with diligence, solidarity, and shared responsibility. The Chairperson also stressed that deepening regional integration through closer cooperation among AU member states, Regional Economic Communities (RECs), and Union institutions remains vital to building a prosperous, resilient, and self-reliant continent. The two-day session saw foreign ministers evaluate progress on Agenda 2063 implementation, institutional governance priorities, and strategic continental issues. The decisions and recommendations adopted during the session will now be submitted to the Assembly of Heads of State and Government for consideration.

Addis Ababa, July 29, 2026 (ENA) —A two-day 49th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Executive Council concluded in Addis Ababa after high-level deliberations on the continent’s development priorities, institutional reforms, and sustainable financing. The session, held under the African Union’s 2026 Theme of the Year, “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safely Managed Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063,” focused on the AU’s policy agenda ahead of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government. The meeting also explored ways to forge coordinated strategies to address Africa’s pressing development challenges while accelerating the continent’s long-term vision for integration, prosperity, and sustainable development. The opening ceremony was attended by senior African and international leaders, including African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timothewos, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) Claver Gatete, and Burundi’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation, Édouard Bizimana, who chaired the Executive Council session. Foreign ministers from AU member states, senior government officials, diplomats, and representatives of regional and international organizations participated in the meeting. During the two-day session, ministers deliberated on a wide range of strategic priorities aimed at deepening regional integration, strengthening cooperation among member states, and advancing the implementation of Agenda 2063, the African Union’s blueprint for an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful continent. Key agenda items included reviewing progress in the implementation of Agenda 2063, assessing decisions and institutional frameworks adopted under both the former Organisation of African Unity (OAU) and the African Union, and evaluating achievements made under the AU’s 2026 Theme of the Year. The Executive Council also formulated policy recommendations and draft decisions for consideration and adoption by the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government, reinforcing its central role in shaping the continent’s political, economic, and development priorities. African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf welcomed the decision on enhanced member-state contributions, describing it as a demonstration of the commitment to financing Africa’s development agenda despite prevailing global economic challenges. “I want to seize this opportunity to thank Kenya and Ethiopia for their decision to join Tier 1. This shows that, with the conviction of our member states to move Agenda 2063 forward, the Commission will have the necessary resources,” he said. “I am particularly encouraged by the decision of our member states to revise the scale of assessment. I know that this decision is a difficult one given the economic situation and the impact of the current geopolitical environment on the continent. As the economic situation is difficult for everybody, these efforts are truly appreciated.” Closing the session, Executive Council Chairperson and Burundi’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation, Ambassador Édouard Bizimana, praised the spirit of consensus demonstrated throughout the meeting and said the latest financing commitments reflected growing African solidarity and determination to build a stronger and more self-sustaining Union. “I want to express satisfaction at a major achievement, namely the sovereign decision of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Republic of Kenya to increase their annual contribution and join the first category, Tier 1, for 2027–2029 under the Harmonized Scale of Assessment. This exemplary gesture of African solidarity and Pan-Africanism reaffirms their unwavering commitment to sustainable financing and strengthens our collective resolve to build a strong, united African Union capable of financing its own ambitions,” Bizimana said. The decisions adopted during the two-day session will now be transmitted for implementation across the African Union Commission, AU organs, and member states, while also shaping the agenda for the upcoming AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government. The resolutions are expected to guide the Union’s work on institutional reform, sustainable financing, regional integration, peace and security, and the implementation of Agenda 2063 in the months ahead.

Addis Ababa, July 29, 2026 (ENA) — Participants in the National Dialogue Conference have underscored the importance of ongoing consultations in resolving differences peacefully while laying the foundation for a stronger and more united country. Four thousand participants are currently deliberating key national issues at the Addis International Convention Center in Addis Ababa. Speaking to ENA, attendees described the consultations as an inclusive platform that brings together diverse voices to advance shared national interests. Yosef Senbeta, one of the participants, noted that citizens are freely exchanging ideas and opinions in an atmosphere of openness and mutual respect. He expressed confidence that the dialogue would make a significant contribution to lasting peace by generating constructive solutions to the country's longstanding challenges. Yosef added that the initiative marks the beginning of a new chapter for Ethiopia, positioning the nation as a potential model of peacebuilding for both Africa and the wider international community. Another delegate, Birtukan Yitayew, described the consultation as a historic forum uniting representatives from all segments of society. She emphasized that the broad range of perspectives being presented will foster national consensus and strengthen social cohesion. Echoing that sentiment, participant Yayehyirad Belete highlighted the dialogue as a unique opportunity to address deep-rooted differences and lay a stronger foundation for the future. He noted that the process proves Ethiopians can resolve their own challenges through constructive engagement, expressing confidence that the consultations will secure lasting peace and safeguard the nation's interests.

Addis Ababa, July 29, 2026 (ENA) — Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timothewos held separate bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Congo and Angola and discussed ways to strengthen bilateral ties and enhance cooperation on continental issues. The meetings focused on deepening bilateral cooperation and exchanging perspectives on key continental priorities. In his meeting with Congo's Foreign Minister, Gedion explored strategic opportunities to expand collaboration into emerging fields, particularly artificial intelligence, alongside climate change mitigation and resilience. During discussions with Angola's Foreign Minister, the two leaders addressed key bilateral and continental issues of mutual interest. Both ministers reaffirmed their commitment to elevating economic cooperation as a core pillar of their partnership. Across both engagements, the foreign ministers emphasized the importance of closer alignment to reinforce the African Union’s institutional mechanisms and advance shared priorities for the continent.  

Addis Ababa, July 29, 2026 (ENA) — Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timothewos, on the sidelines of the 49th Ordinary Session of the African Union Executive Council in Addis Ababa, held separate bilateral discussions with Namibia’s Minister of International Relations and Trade, Selma Ashipala-Musavyi, and Botswana’s Minister of International Relations, Phenyo Butale. During his meeting with his Namibian counterpart, the two ministers discussed ways to further strengthen the longstanding bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Namibia.   They particularly discussed ways of expanding cooperation in the air transport and leather industry sectors. In his discussion with the Botswanan Foreign Minister, the two sides explored opportunities to deepen bilateral cooperation, with Botswana expressing interest in benefiting from Ethiopia’s experiences in green development, infrastructure expansion, and urban corridor development. The ministers also exchanged views on bilateral, regional, and continental issues of mutual interest.   Th two foreign ministers also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation and partnership within the framework of Africa’s shared development aspirations.

Addis Ababa, July 29, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said he held productive discussions with Speaker of the Milli Majlis (Parliament) of Azerbaijan, Sahiba Gafarova, on strengthening bilateral relations and expanding strategic cooperation between Ethiopia and Azerbaijan. In a social media post, the Prime Minister said the talks focused on deepening cooperation between the two countries, building on their shared commitment to a stronger strategic partnership and mutual growth. “We engaged in productive discussions on strengthening our bilateral relations, building on a shared commitment to a deeper strategic partnership and mutual growth,” PM Abiy said. The discussions underscored the growing engagement between Ethiopia and Azerbaijan and their mutual interest in enhancing cooperation in areas of shared strategic and economic importance. Meanwhile, Speaker of the Milli Majlis of Azerbaijan Sahiba Gafarova also held talks with Speaker of Ethiopia’s House of People’s Representatives, Tagesse Chafo, in Addis Ababa. The parliamentary discussions are expected to further strengthen legislative cooperation and contribute to the broader partnership between Ethiopia and Azerbaijan.

Addis Ababa, July 29, 2026 (ENA) —Speakers of Ethiopia and Azerbaijan have reiterated their commitment to strengthening cooperation in various spheres. Azerbaijan National Assembly Speaker, Sahiba Gafarova, and Ethiopia's House of People's Representatives Speaker, Tagesse Chafo, held discussion in Addis Ababa on Tuesday. On the occasion, ‎Tagesse briefed the delegation on the wide business opportunities in Ethiopia, identifying the five major priority sectors such as agriculture, industry, mining, tourism, and ICT.   Ethiopia is ready to collaborate with Azerbaijan in these and other areas, he said, encouraging Azerbaijani investors to engage in investment. According to him, the recent macroeconomic reforms in Ethiopia provide ample opportunities for investors, enhancing economic ties, especially in mining, oil and gas, trade, tourism, education, and science. Speaker Tagesse also briefed his counterpart about the successful 7th General Election and the ongoing Ethiopian National Dialogue. ‎For her part, ‎Speaker Gafarova expressed her country's keenness to work closely with Ethiopia in education, people-to-people ties, and agriculture, among others.   She affirmed that Ethiopia is one the most important countries in Africa; and Azerbajen is committed to expanding collaboration the country.

Addis Ababa, July 28, 2026 (ENA) —President Taye Atske Selassie today bid farewell to the outgoing ambassadors of Finland, Norway and India, commending their dedicated contributions to strengthening Ethiopia’s longstanding diplomatic ties and expanding cooperation with their respective countries President Taye also expressed confidence that cooperation with their respective countries will continue to expand across a wide range of sectors in the years ahead.   He also wished them success in their future diplomatic endeavors, emphasizing Ethiopia's commitment to further deepening its partnerships with Finland, Norway and India. Approached by ENA, Ambassador Sinikka Antila described her three-year tenure in Ethiopia as a deeply rewarding experience, saying she had gained invaluable insights while serving in the diplomatic capital of Africa. She noted that Finland and Ethiopia have cultivated decades of cooperation, particularly in education, rural water supply, agriculture and digital land administration. According to the ambassador, Ethiopia's ongoing economic reforms, modernization drive and rapid transformation are opening new avenues for collaboration in trade, investment, innovation, startups and technology.   "We want to see stronger business partnerships, increased investments, greater innovation, startup collaboration and expanded technology cooperation," Antila said, highlighting the presence of Finnish companies, including Nokia and Vaisala, in Ethiopia. On his part, Outgoing Norwegian Ambassador Stian Christensen described his four-year assignment in Ethiopia as "incredibly interesting, rewarding and beautiful." He also expressed gratitude for the hospitality of the Ethiopian people and the close collaboration extended by government institutions. Christensen underscored the strong Ethiopia-Norway partnership, particularly in climate action, forestry and sustainable development, noting that Norway remains committed to supporting Ethiopia's environmental ambitions.   The ambassador further said cooperation is expected to gain further momentum as Ethiopia prepares to host COP32, with both countries set to expand collaboration on the Green Legacy Initiative, forest conservation and sustainable livelihoods. India's Ambassador Anil Kumar Rai also reflected positively on his two-and-a-half-year tenure, calling it as professionally enriching and personally memorable. He said the warmth and friendship of the Ethiopian people made him feel at home throughout his assignment. Highlighting the historic visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Ethiopia, Ambassador Rai said many of the agreements reached during the visit have already been implemented or are making significant progress. He expressed optimism that the growing momentum in bilateral relations would translate into increased Indian investment and broader economic cooperation, reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two countries.   Rai said Ethiopia and India remain closely aligned on many major international issues, expressing confidence that Ethiopia's membership in BRICS has injected new momentum into bilateral relations and expanded avenues for cooperation in multilateral forums.

Addis Ababa, July 28, 2026 (ENA) — Heads of African Defense Forces attending the five-day 2026 African Logistics and Communications Symposium have commended Ethiopia’s longstanding leading role in peace and security of the continent. Speaking to ENA, Uganda People's Defense Forces Air-Force Director of Logistics, Colonel William Wabwire, said Ethiopia's commitment in promoting peace and security in the entire African continent is really manifested through what is being done. “I understand Ethiopia is contributing troops in quite a number of missions across the entire region. For example, in Somalia and other places in the entire Africa.” Colonel Wabwire also highlighted the significance of cooperation among countries and managing logistics and communication. “We need to understand how our logistics must work, and we need to understand how our communication must enhance in the entire Africa. Cooperating is very crucial, and working together is very key. We cannot work in isolation.” According to him, what Ethiopia has done together with other African countries by hosting this important symposium is very important; and it is one of the ways to promote peace and security. Similarly, Benin Army Headquarters Head of Cabinet, Colonel Adegnika Serges, stated that Ethiopia is a very great nation in Africa and has done a lot for Africa as the seat of the African Union. The country is doing many things regarding regional security and also at the continental level, he noted, appreciating Ethiopia for playing a major role on the continent. Colonel Serges said he hopes that Ethiopia will continue playing a major role in the future for the continent. He further pointed out the significance of strengthening collaborations among countries to fight against rising challenges at the continental level. The Head also underscored the need to reinforce cooperation to better handle the challenges of today and to think about the challenges in the future. For his part, Kenya Defense Forces Communication Officer, Colonel Richard Kipkurui, said being the headquarters of the African Union vividly portrays Ethiopia's longstanding leading role at the continental level. This African Logistics and Communications Symposium “could not be hosted in a better place than here in Addis Ababa”, he added. African problems can better be solved by Africans themselves, Colonel Kipkurui said, stressing the need for Africans to drive the continent’s agenda, encouraging Ethiopia to continue playing its leading role as the headquarters of the AU. Emphasizing the role of collaboration and the need for everybody to be on board, he said “Cooperation is very important now. In this era and age you cannot operate alone because we all face the same challenges”. The 2026 African Logistics and Communications Symposium, co-hosted by Ethiopia and the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), opened in Addis Ababa on Monday, bringing together military leaders, defense experts, and industry partners.

Addis Ababa, July 28, 2026 (ENA) — The current Chairperson of the African Union Executive Council, Édouard Bizimana, has renewed Africa's call for fair and permanent representation on the United Nations Security Council, stressing that global governance structures must reflect the realities of the 21st century. While opening the 49th Ordinary Session of the African Union Executive Council at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa today, the Chairperson said Africa’s progress on the international stage should be accompanied by reforms that ensure the continent receives fair and permanent representation in global decision-making structures. The Chairperson, who is also Burundi's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation, highlighted Africa’s membership in the G20 as a historic milestone that demonstrates the continent’s important role in global economic governance, while emphasizing the need to continue advocating for reform of the United Nations Security Council. He reaffirmed the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration as the foundations of Africa's common position on reform of the United Nations Security Council. The Chairperson also called on African countries to continue speaking with one voice, defend common interests and strengthen solidarity at international forums. The continent is experiencing a decisive period in its history, facing challenges including persistent conflicts, the effects of climate change, economic pressures, employment challenges, and the need to accelerate industrialization and strengthen self-reliance, Nduwimana noted. Despite these challenges, Africa has reasons for hope as it continues to assert itself as an indispensable player in global affairs. The Chairperson also emphasized the importance of translating African Union commitments, decisions, and policies into concrete outcomes that benefit African citizens. He underscored the need for sustainable financing of the African Union, stating that the continent should rely on its own resources to implement its priorities and preserve its independence in decision-making. “A strong Union should be funded first by Africans themselves,” the Chairperson said, stressing that member states contributions strengthen the credibility and predictability of the continental organization. Moreover, he called for maintaining consensus-based decision-making within the African Union, describing consensus as an expression of political maturity and a means of promoting unity among member states. Thanking the Government and people of Ethiopia for hosting the session, Nduwimana described Addis Ababa as a symbol of Pan-Africanism and continental unity. The two-day session has brought together ministers and representatives of AU member states under the African Union's 2026 theme, "Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063."

Addis Ababa, July 28, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, held a series of high-level bilateral meetings with his counterparts from Burundi, Zimbabwe, and Benin on the sidelines of the 49th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Executive Council in Addis Ababa During the discussions, the minister reaffirmed Ethiopia's commitment to advancing African unity, regional integration, and stronger intra-African partnerships. The discussions focused on enhancing bilateral relations, reinforcing cooperation within the African Union, and accelerating the implementation of joint initiatives that support the realization of Agenda 2063, the continent's blueprint for inclusive and sustainable development. In a bilateral talks with Burundi's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation, Édouard Bizimana, who is chairing the 49th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council, the two ministers reviewed preparations and proceedings of the ongoing Executive Council session ahead of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government.   They underscored that the African Union's effectiveness in delivering on its mandate depends on securing sustainable and predictable financing to meet the growing operational and institutional needs of the African Union Commission. Expressing confidence in the ongoing deliberations, both ministers said the session would produce outcomes that further strengthen the Union's capacity to address the continent's priorities. The two sides also reviewed Ethiopia-Burundi relations and agreed on the importance of accelerating cooperation through the effective implementation of the draft bilateral agreements already exchanged between the two countries. In separate talks with Zimbabwe's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Amon Murwira, the ministers reaffirmed the longstanding friendship and strategic partnership between Ethiopia and Zimbabwe.   They noted that the two countries share common positions on key African Union priorities, Pan-Africanism, and major international issues, while emphasizing the need to translate their strong political ties into expanded economic and sectoral cooperation. To advance this objective, the ministers agreed to convene a Joint Ministerial Commission, which will facilitate the implementation of existing bilateral agreements and identify new opportunities for collaboration across a wide range of sectors. Gedion also met with Benin's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Corinne Amori, to discuss practical measures for deepening bilateral relations and broadening cooperation in areas of shared interest.   The two ministers reviewed mechanisms for implementing previously signed agreements, while Minister Amori expressed Benin's keen interest in learning from Ethiopia's growing achievements in artificial intelligence (AI), recognizing the country's expanding expertise and leadership in the emerging technology sector. The series of bilateral engagements underscores Ethiopia's proactive diplomatic role within the African Union and its continued efforts to strengthen partnerships, promote African-led solutions, and deepen cooperation among member states in pursuit of the aspirations of Agenda 2063.

Addis Ababa, July 28, 2026 (ENA) —Speaker of the Milli Majlis (Parliament) of the of Azerbaijan, Sahiba Gafarova, arrived in Addis Ababa on Tuesday for an official visit aimed at strengthening the growing partnership between Ethiopia and Azerbaijan. Upon her arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, Speaker Gafarova was warmly welcomed by Deputy Speaker of Ethiopia's House of People's Representatives (HPR), Lomi Bedo, and State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye, reflecting the importance both countries attach to their expanding diplomatic ties.   During her official visit, Speaker Gafarova is expected to hold high-level discussions with senior Ethiopian government officials on ways to further enhance bilateral cooperation and deepen parliamentary diplomacy between the two countries. The talks are anticipated to focus on broadening collaboration in areas of mutual interest, promoting stronger political and institutional engagement, and exploring new avenues for partnership that contribute to the shared development aspirations of Ethiopia and Azerbaijan.   The visit underscores the growing momentum in Ethiopia–Azerbaijan relations and highlights the commitment of both nations to expanding cooperation through sustained political dialogue, strengthened parliamentary engagement, and closer diplomatic collaboration.

Addis Ababa, July 28, 2026 (ENA) — Diaspora scholar Professor Emeritus Alemayehu G. Mariam has hailed Ethiopia’s National Dialogue as a historic process designed to amplify grassroots voices. The National Dialogue Conference has entered a landmark phase, bringing together thousands of representatives from across the country, he said. The Professor described the initiative as an epic and historic experiment, one that could lay the groundwork for lasting peace, national cohesion, and deep structural reform. The Conference, which started in on July 15, 2026 brought together thousands of participants, including community representatives, civil society leaders, and public figures, to deliberate on long-standing political, social, and cultural issues affecting the country. According to the professor, it marks a significant milestone in Ethiopia's broader effort to address the root causes of recurring conflicts and build a shared national vision through an inclusive, evidence-based process. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Ethiopian diaspora Emeritus Professor Alemayehu G. Mariam, widely known as Al Mariam, framed the commission as “an epic and historic experiment,” noting it departs from traditional elite-led reconciliation models by placing evidence and grassroots voices at the center. “What makes it unique is that this is a legislatively mandated body with the mission of conducting a formal and deep inquiry into the root causes of conflict and disagreement in society,” he said. Professor Al Mariam also underscored the breadth of issues the dialogue aims to tackle. “Ethiopia has been mired in all sorts of conflict for the past five decades or so. Some of them are political, others are cultural, religious,” he said, stressing that solutions require clear diagnosis. “You can't solve a problem unless you know what the problem is,” he added, pointing out that grievances vary across regions and communities. Unlike South Africa’s post-apartheid Truth and Reconciliation model, which he described as elite-driven and limited to addressing specific atrocities, Al Mariam argued Ethiopia’s approach aspires to structural transformation. “They were not aiming for structural transformations to bring about basic change in the society, in the government, in the way people relate to each other, so that they have lasting and durable peace,” he observed about other models, contrasting them with Ethiopia’s broader remit. A striking feature of the conference is the inclusion of roughly 4,000 grassroots delegates who, according to the professor, will act as the “drivers of this consensus engine.” “For myself, I'm a diaspora. I lived in America for more than five decades. The mindset and the experiences and the things that I bring to the dialogue conference are very different than someone who came from a rural area. But we're going to sit down together and then talk about our problems from so many different perspectives,” he said. Expressing his optimism, Al Mariam concluded, “I am confident, I'm beyond confident, that we will come with a common understanding of the problems. And then once we agree on the problems, I think the search for solutions will be far more easy.”

Addis Ababa, July 28, 2026 (ENA) — Africa must strengthen its unity, mobilize greater financial resources, and accelerate institutional reforms to effectively respond to mounting global crises that are increasingly affecting the continent's development prospects, Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said. Addressing the opening of the 49th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council in Addis Ababa today, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said the meeting is taking place against the backdrop of a challenging international environment marked by geopolitical instability, security threats, public health emergencies, and financing constraints. "The meeting is convening at a time of continental and international context marked by crises," he said, noting that the repercussions of the conflict in the Middle East continue to weigh heavily on African economies. According to the AU Commission chairperson, the renewed conflict in the Middle East has disrupted global supply chains, driving up fuel prices and the cost of essential commodities, with significant consequences for African countries. "Our continent is suffering fully the consequences of the crisis in the Middle East,"he stated, adding that experts from the African Union have been assessing the long-term implications of the crisis for the continent. Youssouf also expressed concern over the continued spread of terrorism and violent extremism across Africa, particularly in the Sahel region. Recalling his recent visits to countries in the Sahel, he reaffirmed the African Union Commission's commitment to strengthening regional cooperation in addressing terrorism and improving the humanitarian situation in affected areas. On public health, the chairperson highlighted the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), which he said has claimed more than 1,000 lives. He conveyed condolences to the families of the victims and commended the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) for leading the continental response through the mobilization of resources and deployment of technical teams, while calling for greater solidarity from AU member states. Turning to institutional and financial matters, Youssouf said ministers would deliberate on the African Union's draft 2027 budget. He noted that while member states' assessed contributions remain capped at 200 million US dollars, nearly 80 percent of the programme budget continues to depend on support from international partners. The chairperson observed that the Commission currently operates with only 30 percent of its staffing and 25 percent of the required budgetary resources, underscoring the need for greater financial support to enable the institution to effectively discharge its continental mandate. To realize the aspirations of Agenda 2063, Youssouf stressed that Africa needs to mobilize an estimated 2 billion US dollars, emphasizing that the Commission's role is to create the political, policy, and institutional conditions necessary to attract greater public and private investment for the continent's development. He further stated that the Commission will continue utilizing multilateral platforms and strategic partnerships to advance Africa's priorities and expectations on the global stage. On institutional reform, Youssouf announced that the implementation of the Skills Audit and Competency Assessment (SACA) process has been completed, except for issues relating to staff financed by development partners, which have been referred to the Executive Council. He reaffirmed the Commission's commitment to prudent financial management, strengthened accountability, and results-based management. The AU Commission chairperson also urged member states to accelerate the ratification of outstanding African Union legal instruments critical to implementing the Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan of Agenda 2063. He further appealed for African countries to remain united in supporting African candidates seeking election to positions in international organizations, saying continental solidarity remains essential to advancing Africa's interests globally. Foreign ministers and senior officials from across Africa are convening in Addis Ababa for the 49th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council to deliberate on key continental priorities, including water security, sanitation, institutional reform, financing, peace and security, and the implementation of Agenda 2063.