Addis Ababa, May 23, 2025 (POA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and President of France Emmanuel Macron engaged in positive discussions on a wide range of issues that strengthen our cooperation and partnership. In a social media post, Prime Minister Abiy stated that: “I appreciate the warm hospitality extended and the fruitful conversations, following up on our last meeting in Addis Ababa in December 2024. While our collaboration spans many vital areas, enhancing commercial ties remains among the central priorities.

Addis Ababa, May 22, 2025 (POA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, accompanied by First Lady Zinash Tayachew and a high-level delegation, arrived in Paris, France earlier today for a working visit. Upon his arrival at the Musée de l’Armée, a welcoming ceremony was held for the Prime Minister. During the visit, he is scheduled to meet with President Emmanuel Macron.

Addis Ababa, May 22, 2025 (ENA) --- Mayors of IGAD member states and partners have stressed the importance of inclusive urban development for displaced populations in the region. A two-day forum titled “Urban Dimension of Forced Displacement in IGAD region” opened in Addis Ababa today. In his opening remarks, Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Deputy Secretary General Mohamed Abdi Ware said that cities are often at the forefront of displacement issues stemming from conflict, natural disasters, and economic instability.   He outlined the challenges facing urban areas, including land use, municipal services, and security, underscoring that the effectiveness of urban governance directly impacts national stability. Moreover, he added that cities in the IGAD regions are being challenged by refugees of forced displacements, indicating that integration of rural migrants into urban settings is frequently mishandled leading to increased friction and conflict. Lauding the resilience of mayors who manage these complexities with limited resources and infrastructure, Mohamed Abdi Ware acknowledged the essential support from partners like the European Union, UNHCR, and UN-Habitat, who contribute both technical expertise and empathetic collaboration. As the region faces unprecedented challenges in peace and security, the deputy secretary general called for a sincere dialogue between urban centers and their peripheries, which he identified as a core issue in regional conflicts. He expressed hope for a collaborative approach to address the pressing challenges facing cities throughout the IGAD region, from Sudan to Somalia. Ethiopian Refugees and Returnees Service Advisor Zewdu Bedada on his part emphasized the pressing need for inclusive urban planning in Ethiopia, addressing the profound effects of migration and displacement on urban growth.   He stated that Ethiopia has been significantly impacted by forced displacement, with many displaced individuals arriving with limited resources and facing challenges in accessing essential services. According to him, the influx strains urban systems that lead to overcrowding and social instability, calling for the urgent need for policies that promote social cohesion and sustainable development for both refugees and host communities. Zewdu further announced the upcoming launch of the Makatet Strategy, aimed at transitioning from care-focused management of refugees to a development-oriented integration strategy within national systems. Additionally, the Makadet Strategy, will support local development and climate adaptation in the southeastern Somali region, facilitating the transformation of camps into urban settlements. The plan emphasizes climate resilience and economic opportunities for both refugees and host communities, it was learned. UNHCR Assistant Representative for Protection, David Karp, highlighted the unprecedented displacement challenges facing the region, escalating situations that exacerbate existing strains on resources and urban systems.   Commending the progress made through the IGAD-led Nairobi Declaration, which has established a pioneering framework for refugee inclusion and self-reliance, he said the subsequent Djibouti and Kampala Declarations further support this shift from humanitarian assistance to development-oriented approaches, benefiting both refugees and host communities. Karp further commended the innovative initiatives such as Kenya's Sharika Plan and Ethiopia's upcoming Makatet Strategy, which aim to transform refugee camps into integrated municipalities. As protracted displacement situations persist, the assistant representative stressed the importance of accelerating efforts to enhance refugee inclusion and self-reliance within national systems, noting that a recent socioeconomic survey in Ethiopia demonstrated that full economic inclusion could significantly reduce assistance costs and stimulate local economies. Despite these advancements, Karp expressed concern over funding shortfalls that threaten UNHCR's operations and the progress made in refugee inclusion. He urged all partners — governments, development actors, and civil society — to mobilize support and ensure financial commitments translate into actionable initiatives.

Addis Ababa, May 22, 2025 (ENA) --- The 3rd African Union-European Union Ministerial Meeting convened in Brussels has reaffirmed the strategic and multifaceted partnership between Africa and Europe with renewed commitments to peace and security, sustainable development, digital innovation, climate action, and inclusive multilateralism. The high-level gathering brought together foreign ministers and representatives from AU and EU member states who reviewed progress under the Joint Vision for 2030, and adopted a joint communique charting priority actions in key thematic areas. According to a joint communique, the ministers stressed the urgent need for peaceful resolutions to ongoing crises, including in Sudan, the Sahel, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Gaza. They expressed solidarity with affected civilians, underscoring their shared resolve to strengthen diplomacy, uphold international law, and address humanitarian needs. The role of women and youth in peacebuilding was emphasized alongside support for the AU’s Peace and Security Architecture and Humanitarian Agency. On migration and mobility, the two sides pledged enhanced cooperation to address root causes, dismantle trafficking networks, support return and reintegration, and promote legal migration pathways. The importance of the AU-EU Youth Cooperation Hub and diaspora engagement was reaffirmed. They also welcomed progress in implementing the Global Gateway Africa-Europe Investment Package, prioritizing sustainable infrastructure, health systems, education, green energy, and digital connectivity. The ministers stressed the importance of job creation for Africa’s growing youth population and reaffirmed support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and Africa’s industrialization goals. In the face of global climate challenges, the AU and EU committed to full implementation of the Paris Agreement, scaling up climate finance, supporting adaptation and resilience, and addressing biodiversity loss. Moreover, the ministers strongly reaffirmed their commitment to inclusive multilateralism and reform of global governance structures. They advocated for a more representative and accountable United Nations Security Council, highlighting the role of the AU’s Committee of Ten (C-10) in promoting the Common African Position. Furthermore, they committed to working jointly on the UN80 initiative and welcomed the African Union’s permanent seat in the G20 under South Africa’s presidency. In addition, both sides agreed to cooperate in promoting human-centric artificial intelligence, digital governance frameworks, and a secure data market in Africa, with a view to preventing digital divides and fostering innovation ecosystems. The ministers also commended the continued AU-EU collaboration in the WTO and global financing mechanisms. Recognizing the AU Theme of the Year 2025, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” the ministers underscored the need for inclusive dialogue that values Africa’s historical experiences and contributions. They reiterated the essential role of civil society, youth, local authorities, and parliaments in driving democratic governance, development, and human rights. The 3rd AU-EU Ministerial Meeting concluded with agreement to reconvene in Africa in 2027, continuing the momentum for shared priorities and deeper cooperation.

Addis Ababa, May 22, 2025 (ENA) -- Ethiopia's pursuit of maritime access is a permanent national imperative driven by the vision of security, economic viability and regional integration, IFA Executive Director Jafar Bedru underscored. The 3rd Red Sea and Gulf of Aden Dialogue, was held today in Addis Ababa under the theme "Navigating Gulf-Horn Economic and Security Cooperation: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Directions." Opening the dialogue, the Executive Director of IFA affirmed that the meeting reflects collective resolve to foster meaningful engagement, build mutual understanding and advance a shared vision for regional peace, security and prosperity. For the Executive Director, the IFA is committed to producing actionable research for foreign policy actors, serving as a hub for thought leadership in diplomacy, peace and international cooperation.     Citing that the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden corridor is a critical geopolitical interface, he stressed that from Ethiopia’s perspective the corridor is vital from the long term stability, governance and accessibility. Ethiopia’s pursuit of guaranteed maritime access is not a passing concern, he stated, adding that it is a permanent national imperative—driven by the vision of security, economic viability, and regional integration. For too long, Ethiopia has been excluded from the Red Sea security arrangements and forced to rely on limited transit routes, he recalled. Ethiopian Diaspora Service Director General Fitsum Arega said for his part that the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden are crucial to connect the Horn of Africa and the Middle East states to the international market.   Historically, there has been significant economic and security cooperation between the Middle East in general and the Horn of Africa dating back to ancient times, he further pointed out. The director general added that the renewed connection has the potential to transform economic and security collaboration in the region, given the strategic economic and security ties between the Middle East and the Horn of Africa. Ethiopia needs to strategically position itself to enhance its economic ties with the rest of the world, and actively participate in combating piracy, violent extremism and terrorism, which are significant economic and security challenges in the region. He emphasized that Ethiopia's openness to investment, trade and development has the potential to attract the Middle East countries and Africa, noting the country's fast growing economy.   The National Defense Forces (NDF) Training Head, Lieutenant General Yimer Mekonnen underscored that the cooperation between the Horn of Africa and the Gulf region is not merely diplomatic, but a matter of regional stability. According to Lieutenant General Yimer, Ethiopia's strategic pursuit of maritime access is grounded on the principle of mutual respect, transparency and regional cooperation.

Addis Ababa, May 21, 2025 (ENA) – Military and technical cooperation between Ethiopia and the Russian Federation is a key pillar of longstanding and strategic partnership of the two countries, Ethiopia’s State Minister of Defense, Martha Luwigi underscored. The 14th Meeting of the Ethiopia- Russian Intergovernmental Working Group on Military - Technical Cooperation began today in Moscow. An Ethiopian delegation led by State Minister of Defense and co-Chair of the Intergovernmental Working Group, Martha Luwigi is taking part in the meeting. In her opening remarks, Martha underscored that military and technical cooperation between Ethiopia and the Russian Federation is a key pillar of their longstanding and strategic partnership. The State Minister also noted that the Working Group serves as an appropriate platform to review military collaboration between the two countries and to enhance Ethiopia’s defense capabilities through capacity-building initiatives and opportunities for technology transfer. Chairman of the Russian Woking Group, Anatoly PUNCHUK, on his part, expressed his country’s readiness to further enhance the military and technical cooperation between the two countries.

Addis Ababa, May 21, 2025 (ENA)—The Council of Ministers has referred two draft proclamations regarding agricultural extension services and ecosystem service payments to the House of People's Representatives (HPR). In its 45th regular session convened virtually today, the council first discussed the Draft Proclamation on Multi-Stakeholder Agricultural Extension Services and Administration. The proposed legislation aims to revolutionize the delivery of agricultural extension services in Ethiopia which used to be exclusively provided by the government. In response to the evolving demands of the agricultural sector, the draft proclamation seeks to establish a framework that encourages participation from non-governmental organizations, the private sector, cooperatives, and professional associations.   Following extensive deliberation, the council unanimously agreed to refer the draft proclamation to the House of People’s Representatives for further review. Next, the council delved into the Draft Proclamation on Ecosystem Service Payments, which introduces a much-needed legal framework for the implementation of ecosystem service fees. Currently, the absence of such a framework has led to inconsistencies in how these payments are applied across various institutions.   The draft proclamation endeavors to foster coordinated participation among federal and regional bodies, as well as private and non-governmental actors, it was learned. After an in-depth discussion, the council also decided to refer this draft proclamation to the House of People’s Representatives.

Addis Ababa, May 21, 2025 (ENA)—The third African Union and European Union ministerial meeting was held in Brussels today to take stock of progress made since the sixth AU- EU Summit of February 2022. The African Union Commission Chairperson (AUC), Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, underscored the imperative for the alignment of the EU-AU partnership with the AU’s Agenda 2063. He highlighted significant progress in many African countries towards achieving macro-economic stability, and implementation of reforms, particularly through initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). The AUC Chairperson stressed the urgency of moving from commitments to implementation, especially in light of Africa joining the G20, and today’s multilateral landscape. He emphasized the crucial importance of peace and security for African development, and that the partnership with Europe is vital for stability on the continent. The Chairperson stressed the need for ongoing dialogue, mutual respect, and solidarity to make the partnership successful. He also called for a commitment to strengthening cooperation, and finding practical solutions to pressing global and regional issues, to benefit both Africa and Europe.

Addis Ababa, May 21, 2025 (ENA)— The Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), Workneh Gebeyehu has taken note of the appointment of Kamil al-Tayeb Idris as Prime Minister of Sudan by the Chairman of Sudan’s Transitional Sovereign Council. The Executive Secretary hopes that this appointment will mark a meaningful step toward reviving an inclusive political process, and urges all Sudanese stakeholders to engage in broad-based national consultations aimed at restoring constitutional governance, forging peace, and laying the foundation for a stable and democratic Sudan. He reiterates IGAD’s call for an immediate and unconditional ceasefire, emphasizing that silencing the guns is essential to ending civilian suffering, enabling humanitarian access, and creating an environment conducive to dialogue. IGAD remains steadfast in its commitment to the sovereignty, unity, and stability of Sudan, and stands ready to support, according to the statement.

Addis Ababa, May 21, 2025 (ENA)— United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned of rising threats to global maritime transport at a high-level Security Council meeting. Addressing a meeting of the UN Security Council during a debate on maritime issues, the Secretary-General underlined that without maritime security, there can be no global security.” He stressed all the facets of life are dependent on maritime security. “All of humanity depends on the world’s oceans and seas. From the oxygen we breathe to the biodiversity that sustains all life to the economy’s trade and jobs supported by maritime industries.” Today’s debate shines a light on a fundamental fact, he said, adding that without maritime security, there can be no global security,” said Guterres. He also highlighted the need to help developing countries build their capacity to deal with these threats through technology, training, capacity-building, judicial reforms, and modernized naval forces, marine police units, maritime surveillance and port security. Guterres said respect for international law is the anchor of maritime security. The international legal regime for maritime security, with the UN Charter and the Convention on the Law of the Sea at its core, strikes a careful balance between states' sovereign rights, jurisdictions and freedoms, and their duties and obligations. And it provides a strong cooperative framework for addressing crimes at sea and ensuring accountability, he said. But the UN chief warned that this framework is only as strong as states' commitment to full and effective implementation. "All states must live up to their obligations. And they must resolve any differences in relation to maritime security in accordance with the UN Charter," he said. Guterres called for partnerships to enhance maritime security. "We must involve everyone with a stake in maritime spaces," he said. "As threats to maritime security are becoming more complex and interconnected, enhanced coordination and stronger maritime governance are essential." Maritime spaces are increasingly under strain from both traditional threats and emerging dangers: from challenges around contested boundaries, to the depletion of natural resources at sea, to escalating geopolitical tensions fanning the flames of competition, conflict and crime, he said. No region is spared. And the problem is getting worse. After a modest global decrease in reported piracy and armed robbery incidents in 2024, the first quarter of 2025 saw a sharp upward reversal, warned Guterres. Reported incidents rose by nearly half (47.5 percent) compared with the same period in 2024, he said, citing figures from the International Maritime Organization. Incidents in Asia nearly doubled, especially in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. In the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, attacks by the Houthis in Yemen on commercial vessels have disrupted global trade and increased tensions in an already volatile region, he noted. The Gulf of Aden and the Mediterranean remain treacherously active routes for migrant smuggling and the trafficking of weapons and human beings. The Gulf of Guinea continues to grapple with piracy, kidnappings, armed robbery at sea, oil theft, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, and the illicit trafficking of drugs, weapons, and people. Heroin from Afghanistan continues to reach East Africa through the Indian Ocean. Cocaine moves through the coasts of the Western Hemisphere and across the Atlantic to West Africa and European ports. Cyber-attacks are a fast-emerging security threat for ports and shipping companies, he said. Over the years, the Security Council has sought to address a range of threats that undermine maritime security and global peace, including piracy, armed robbery, trafficking and organized crime as well as terrorism in the maritime domain, said the UN chief. The UN system stands ready to continue to support the Security Council and all UN member states in ensuring peaceful, secure and prosperous maritime spaces for generations to come, he said. "Let's take action to support and secure maritime spaces, and the communities and people counting on them."

Addis Ababa, May 18, 2025 (ENA)— At least 10 people were killed today after a suicide bomber targeted a queue of young recruits registering at the Damanyo military base in the Somali capital Mogadishu. Teenagers were lining up at the base's gate when the attacker detonated their explosives, witnesses told Reuters. Abdisalan Mohamed said he had seen “hundreds of teenagers at the gate as we passed by in a bus”. “Abruptly, a deafening blast occurred, and the area was covered by dense smoke. We could not see the details of casualties,” he added. A military captain who gave his name as Suleiman described the attack as he had seen it unfold. “I was on the other side of the road. A speeding tuk-tuk stopped, a man alighted, ran into the queue and then blew himself up. I saw 10 people dead, including recruits and passers-by. The death toll may rise,” he told Reuters. Dozens of abandoned shoes and the remains of the suicide bomber remained visible at the scene. Medical staff at the military hospital told Reuters they had received 30 wounded people from the blast and six of them had died immediately. Separately, an official told the Anadolu news agency that the attack had killed at least 11 people. The government has cordoned off the area. There was no immediate claim of responsibility, but the attack echoed a similar incident in 2023 when a suicide bomber killed 25 soldiers at the Jale Siyad base, located opposite the Damanyo facility. Sunday’s attack follows the assassination on Saturday of Colonel Abdirahmaan Hujaale, commander of Battalion 26, in the Hiiran region amid local reports of the al-Shabab armed group’s infiltration into government and security forces. Al-Shabab has been fighting the Somali government for nearly two decades and frequently targets government officials and military personnel, it was learned.

Addis Ababa, May 18, 2025 (ENA)— U.S. President Donald Trump said he will speak to both his Russian and Ukrainian counterparts Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy respectively as well as leaders of various NATO countries in an effort to stop the ongoing war in Ukraine. Trump said the call with Putin will be about stopping the “bloodbath” in Ukraine. “Hopefully it will be a productive day, a ceasefire will take place, and this very violent war, a war that should have never happened, will end,” Trump wrote Saturday in a post on his social networking site Truth Social. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed in comments to Russian media that preparations were underway for Monday’s call. Trump's remarks came a day after the first direct talks between Moscow and Kyiv in years failed to yield a ceasefire. Putin had spurned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy's offer to meet face-to-face in Turkey after he himself proposed direct negotiations — although not at the presidential level — as an alternative to a 30-day ceasefire urged by Ukraine and its Western allies, including the U.S. Also on Saturday, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio had a phone call with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov. During a visit to Rome, Rubio suggested that the Vatican could be a venue for Russia-Ukraine peace talks. In Ukraine, a northeastern town declared a period of mourning after a Russian drone hit a bus evacuating civilians from front-line areas, killing nine people, Ukrainian officials said. The strike came hours after the Russian and Ukrainian delegations left Istanbul, after agreeing to what would be the biggest prisoner swap to date between the warring parties. The talks in Istanbul on Friday broke up after less than two hours without a ceasefire, although both sides agreed on exchanging 1,000 prisoners of war each, according to the heads of both delegations. Ukraine’s intelligence chief, Kyrylo Budanov, said on Ukrainian television Saturday that the exchange could happen as early as next week. But the Kremlin has pushed back against a proposal by Ukraine and its Western allies for a temporary ceasefire as a first step toward a peaceful settlement, and the parties remained far apart on key conditions for ending the fighting. Since U.S.-brokered talks began in March, Ukraine’s strategy has been to convince the Trump administration that Putin is unreliable, and that Kyiv is serious about peace. Trump has expressed frustration with the stalled talks and threatened to abandon his efforts if results aren’t achieved. He has also said that no peace would be reached until he held a face-to-face meeting with Putin. On Friday, Trump told reporters after boarding Air Force One to return to Washington from Abu Dhabi that he may call Putin soon. “He and I will meet, and I think we’ll solve it, or maybe not,” Trump said. “At least we’ll know." Zelenskyy said that he had discussed the outcome of the talks with Trump and the leaders of France, Germany, Britain and Poland. In an X post from a European leadership meeting in Albania on Friday, Zelenskyy urged “tough sanctions” against Moscow if it rejects “a full and unconditional ceasefire and an end to killings.” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Saturday held open the possibility of Putin holding talks with Zelenskyy, providing the agreed prisoner swap goes ahead, and if the Russian and Ukrainian delegations reached unspecified further “agreements.” Peskov also told reporters that Moscow will present Ukraine with a list of conditions for a ceasefire, but gave no timeframe, or say what needed to happen before Zelenskyy and Putin can meet.

Addis Ababa, May 18, 2025 (ENA) -- The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expressed deep concern over the recent armed clashes in Tripoli, which resulted in loss of life and property damage. The Chairperson of the African Union Commission issued a statement of the on the situation in Libya. In his statement, he welcomed the ceasefire and the return of cautious calm, while urging all parties to refrain from actions or statements that could further destabilize the fragile security situation. Emphasizing the importance of demilitarizing the capital, Youssouf supported efforts to restore civilian order and uphold the rights to peaceful assembly and freedom of expression in line with international law. He called for national responsibility and engagement in a comprehensive political process to end Libya’s prolonged transitional phase and achieve lasting peace and development. The Chairperson reaffirmed the African Union’s strong support for Libya and urged all stakeholders to commit to the National Reconciliation Charter, signed in Addis Ababa in February 2025.

Addis Ababa, May 17, 2025 (ENA) – – The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) is set to host the 4th IGAD Scientific Conference from May 19-21, 2025, in Addis Ababa. Organized under the theme: “Migration, Displacement, and Urbanization: Implications for Sustainable Development,” the conference will serve as a premier platform for scholars, researchers, policymakers, and development practitioners to examine the intricate linkages between migration, displacement, and urbanization, and their impact on sustainable development across the IGAD region. IGAD said in a press release today that the conference seeks to generate actionable recommendations to inform evidence-based policymaking at both regional and national levels by fostering interdisciplinary dialogue. Urbanization is profoundly reshaping the IGAD region, with cities increasingly serving as primary destinations for migrants and displaced populations. This trend presents both opportunities and challenges—ranging from economic revitalization and social cohesion to infrastructure pressure and governance complexities. The unprecedented scale of migration and displacement necessitates innovative and inclusive urban planning strategies that balance humanitarian response with long-term development objectives. The 4th IGAD Scientific Conference will explore these dynamics under five key sub-themes: drivers and root causes; urban governance and policy; socio-economic integration; financing, investment, and innovation; and data and evidence for policy and planning. The convening of this conference underscores IGAD’s enduring commitment to advancing research-driven policies that address the complexities of migration and urbanization. The conference will catalyze critical discussions aimed at shaping inclusive and resilient urban futures across the region by engaging a broad spectrum of stakeholders. The 4th IGAD Scientific Conference is organized in collaboration with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, the Government of Sweden, Cities Alliance, ReDSS, and the IGAD Universities Forum.

Addis Ababa, May 17, 2025 (ENA) – Norway has commended Ethiopia’s determination and commitment for the ambitious reforms and expressed keenness to enhance bilateral ties. The Ambassador also confirmed that during his tenure in Ethiopia, will work to elevate his country’s multifaceted cooperation with Ethiopia to a higher level. The Ambassador told ENA that the two countries have a long-standing historical cooperation. He said the two countries are working to enhance their cooperation particularly in the areas of health, education, human and democratic rights, as well as in the economic and political spheres. Ambassador Christensen pledged to elevate his country’s multifaceted cooperation with Ethiopia to a higher level during his tenure in Ethiopia. “There is strong and historic relationship between Norway and Ethiopia. Norway has been a partner with Ethiopia for many years and my ambition, of course, as Norwegian ambassador here is to continue that and expand upon it to strengthen our relations further in many fields.” Praising the significant changes seen in Ethiopia over the past few years, Ambassador Christensen remarked that the reform initiatives being undertaken in the country reflect the leadership's capability and commitment to transformation. The Ambassador also applauded the dedication of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and other government officials at all levels including the ministers. “Ethiopian government is very ambitious and very motivated and very determined to reform to deliver a modern Ethiopia. and I think my experience in working with the different ministries that I work with, that there is a high level of professionalism and high level of commitment from the prime minister to the other to the ministers and below.”

Addis Ababa, May 16, 2025 (ENA)— Russian and Ukrainian officials have opened direct peace talks in Istanbul, Türkiye today for the first time in more than three years. Delegations from the two countries have sat down for their first direct talks in three years. However, many political commentators are arguing that hopes for a breakthrough at the meeting in Türkiye remain limited. Turkish television showed the negotiators sitting down, together with Turkish representatives, in the Dolmabahce Palace on the Bosphorus. Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that the meeting had begun. However, optimism is low that the negotiations could produce significant progress towards a ceasefire, after Russian President Vladimir Putin spurned an offer by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to meet face to face in Türkiye. Zelenskyy said he was sending a team headed by his defence minister to Istanbul for the talks, even as he said that the Russian delegation did not include “anyone who actually makes decisions”, accusing Moscow of not making efforts to end the war. Russia’s team is headed by presidential adviser Vladimir Medinsky, a former culture minister, who said that he viewed talks with Kyiv as a “continuation” of failed negotiations in 2022.

Yimer Ayele One thing that the current TPLF old guard has mastered is how to manufacture a crisis. The storm that they are trying to stir up due to the cancellation of the party’s registration by the National Elections Board is a good example of the bluff of this group. After the Pretoria Agreement - which does not address the issue of registration - was signed, the Electoral Board rejected TPLF’s request to be reinstated as a political party without any registration process. The Board decided that the TPLF must re-register using the regular registration process, just like any other newly formed party. The TPLF complained against this decision and claimed that as an old party with a long history, it should not be required to register through the regular procedure. The Federal Government made an effort to work with the Board to see if there was any way in which the request of the TPLF could be accommodated under the pertinent law. However, this effort was unsuccessful, as the Board determined that the matter fell outside its mandate. Hence, the Federal Government respected the decision of the Board as an independent democratic constitutional organ. To find a way out of this impasse and in the spirit of fostering peace, the Federal Government initiated a legislative amendment that would enable the TPLF to register through a special, expedited, and simplified procedure enabling it to maintain its political identity as a decades-old party. The new legislation waived the requirements applicable to a new political party. It enabled TPLF to register with its existing program, leadership, and bylaws without the need to go through the cumbersome processes required during the formation of a new political party. Under this law, the TPLF registered and secured a certificate regaining its status as a political party under Ethiopian law. However, after it received the certificate of registration, the TPLF complained that it was not happy with how it was registered and started clamoring for “reinstatement”. The certificate it has acquired and its registration through a special procedure gave it all the benefits, privileges, and entitlements of a political party. Yet, the TPLF insisted that this was still not satisfactory without any reasonable ground for its dissatisfaction. It was a frivolous complaint that did not change the fact that the TPLF had already regained its legal status as a duly registered political party. To complicate matters further, the TPLF conducted a general assembly to elect a new leadership without notifying the National Electoral Board in advance, as per the requirements of the law. Any political party intending to hold a general assembly must first notify the Board and conduct the assembly under its supervision. Nevertheless, the TPLF held an assembly without complying with these statutory requirements. The Board noted this violation of the political parties' proclamation but gave the TPLF ample chance and warning to rectify the infraction and comply with the law. The Board furthermore instructed the TPLF to hold an assembly under its supervision and gave a time frame within which this task should be accomplished. When the TPLF failed to comply with this requirement within the six-month period prescribed by the law, the Board granted an additional three months for compliance. Once again, the TPLF ignored the instructions of the Board, fully aware that this would entail the cancellation of its registration. The TPLF had nine months to hold a general assembly and meet the requirements of the Board. It deliberately failed to do so. This was a conscious effort intended to generate a crisis. After the Board inevitably cancelled its registration due to its own calculated intransigence and deliberate failure to comply with the law of the land, TPLF is now complaining about the cancellation of its registration. This is disingenuous to say the least. The TPLF orchestrated the cancellation through its deliberate non-compliance, violating a clear and reasonable legal requirement to hold a general party assembly. Now, it claims that the cancellation might trigger “instability and spontaneous violence”. There is nothing spontaneous about this whole affair. It is a manufactured crisis that is the handiwork of the warmongers within the TPLF and their senior partners from the north. This ploy must not hoodwink the international community. Those behind this drama are the hardliners of the TPLF who were unhappy with the Pretoria Agreement. The depth of their displeasure is manifested clearly by the fate of the lead negotiators of the Peace Agreement, both of whom had to flee the Tigray region, fearing for their lives. TPLF would not have chased away those who negotiated the peace agreement if it was committed to peace. What belies the professed commitment of the TPLF to the Pretoria agreement is its constant need to manufacture a crisis. It is the same logic that explains the fact that they are holding IDPs as hostages to perpetuate their narrative and litany of grievances. The international community cannot interfere in the question of the registration of a political party, which is an internal administrative and regulatory matter. If the TPLF is not happy with the decision of the Electoral Board, it can appeal to the judiciary. The TPLF should not benefit from the crisis it is manufacturing by getting the one reward it is seeking - which is international attention! Addressing governance, rehabilitation, and reconstruction priorities should be the focus of anyone who has the best interest of the Tigray region and its people at heart. Instead the current leadership of the TPLF seems to prefer engaging in pointless liaisons with diplomats and international organizations where it regurgitates the same talking points. This addiction to the fanfare and ceremonial trappings of diplomatic engagements should not be indulged. The desire to unilaterally break and renegotiate the Pretoria Agreement must be called out for the dangerous delusion that it represents. The TPLF should be firmly disabused of this notion. There will not be a sequel to Pretoria! It is time that even those who are not happy with this Agreement come to terms with this reality and focus on its implementation, instead of its renegotiation.

Addis Ababa, May 16, 2025 (ENA) --- Government Communication Service State Minister Tesfahun Gobezay said tangible outcomes have been registered in increasing productivity, ensuring sustainable peace and development during the Ethiopian fiscal year. Briefing the media today, the state minister noted that the government has shown its firm commitment to peace by encouraging fighters to return to peace. Alongside its strong commitment for peace, the government is also carrying out effective law enforcement measures to protect peace and security of citizens from groups that reject the peace call. In its endeavors to realize Ethiopia’s inclusive prosperity, the government has been registering tangible results in agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, and digital technology. With respect to ensuring food sovereignty, the state minister noted that wheat cultivation through irrigation, the Bounty of Baskets initiative, among others, have been carried out, registering results in leaps and bounds. Some 3.4 million hectares of land was covered with summer wheat yielding over 66 million quintals. He also added that 2.2 million hectares of land was cultivated with spring wheat, 235,000 hectares with cluster farming. To enhance production and productivity and achieve food self-sufficiency, the government is working with special attention to improving the supply of fertilizers and the distribution of high-quality seeds. Accordingly, 1.3 billion USD was allocated for the purchase of fertilizers, and the government has subsidized 84 billion Birr for the 2017/18 Ethiopia’s crop season. The Made in Ethiopia Movement has enhanced production and international competitiveness of manufacturing industries, he said, adding that the country has been able to substitute 10.34 billion USD worth of foreign products in the past three years. Moreover, the government has made the tourism sector an economic priority area and has been able to renovate the existing tourist destinations and build new ones, he further elaborated, saying that the tourist flow has increased. Furthermore, to boost conference tourism, the government has successfully developed existing tourist destinations and built new ones as the country has successfully hosted 84 international conferences, attracting more than 30,000 foreign nationals and 171,000 Ethiopians in the past 10 months alone. Ethiopia is hosting 8 international conferences in May alone, the Ethiopian Technology Exhibition / ETEX 2025, the ID4 Africa Annual Conference, and the 20th International Labor Organization Continental Conference among them.

Addis Ababa, May 15, 2025 (ENA)— Ethiopia has reaffirmed commitment to the United Nations (UN) peacekeeping missions with new pledges to continue providing additional military and police unites. Ethiopian delegation led by Defense Minister Eng. Aisha Mohammed participated at the UN Ministerial Peace Keeping Forum held in Berlin, Germany. Ethiopia’s Ministry of Defense said in a press release sent to ENA, Aisha vowed additional supports to the United Nations Peacekeeping mission during this high-level meeting.   Accordingly, Ethiopia will deploy additional military and police units as per the request that will be made by the UN. She also reaffirmed her country’s commitment to continue providing trainings through its International Peacekeeping Training Institute. In particular, the minister assured that the institute will continue to focus on training female peacekeepers. The two-day high-level meeting held with the objective of improving the UN peacekeeping concluded today, according to the ministry.

Addis Ababa, May 15, 2025 (ENA) -- African religious institutions and leaders should advocate for positive and peaceful ideals to foster broader social cohesion in the continent and beyond, African Religious fathers urged. The Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia hosted a conference to promote interfaith unity, peace, and sustainable development across Africa, setting an example for peaceful coexistence. The council co-organized the conference in collaboration with the United Religions Initiative-Africa and the G20 Interfaith Forum and the African Union. The annual interfaith conference was designed to promote and enhance interfaith unity, foster peace, and encourage sustainable development across Africa. Imam Muhammad Nurayn Ashafa and Reverend James Movel Wuye, from Kaduna, Nigeria, received the Commonwealth Peace Prize and Golden Rule Award for their commitment to peace and reconciliation In an exclusive interview with ENA, Imam Muhammad recounted Christ's escape into Egypt and the journey of the first Muslims to Ethiopia, emphasizing that African religion should not be viewed as a source of conflict.   Instead, he stressed they represent a rich tapestry of beliefs where followers can practice their faiths in an atmosphere of peace and love, fostering understanding and coexistence among diverse communities. “Ethiopia’s Interreligious consistence is model. We have seen this to major religions in the continent. The first Muslim community were saved and protected as refugees in Ethiopia. The king Nejashi of that day gave them protection. The same happened to Christianity. When Herod would attempt to kill Jesus, their son, Mary and Joseph took their infant son and fled into Africa, Egypt. So, the continent of Africa makes everybody to feel at home.” He commended Ethiopia’s interreligious coexistence of people regardless of faiths. Recalling his experience as a victim of a conflict, having lost his right hand, Reverend Wuye emphasized the crucial role that religious institutions play, along with the influential leaders who guide them.   These institutions are essential to foster peace and reconciliation within communities affected by violence and division, he noted. Stating that Ethiopia and Nigeria are culturally diverse nations, Reverend Wuye pointed out how individuals can coexist harmoniously by embracing each other's beliefs, cultures, languages, and religions. He emphasized the crucial role of religious institutions and leaders in promoting lasting peace in Africa and globally. “Together as African religious leaders, we can promote peace in Africa; here in Ethiopia, the seat of the African Union, we want to contribute our quarter to peace in Africa and also we have come to learn from Ethiopia, peaceful religious harmony that is on the ground. We are really happy to be here.” He further stated that Ethiopia and Nigeria exemplify how individuals can coexist in harmony by embracing one another and acknowledging and respecting each other's beliefs, cultures, languages, and religions. The Ambassadors of the Golden Rule acknowledged that achieving peace is challenging when humanity faces both internal and external struggles, asserting that religious institutions and their leaders hold a crucial responsibility in alleviating the challenges our world encounters, even if complete resolution is unattainable. Finally, he conveyed that the youth in Africa must be nurtured in constructive and peaceful ways to mitigate these issues.