Addis Ababa, October 1, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia has declared an Egyptian diplomatic staff member persona non grata and ordered him to leave the country within 48 hours. Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs formally notified the Egyptian Embassy in Addis Ababa that Ahmed Moharam Ahmed Soliman, a member of Egypt’s diplomatic staff, has been declared persona non grata, the ministry said in a statement. “In accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, the Ministry hereby notifies the Embassy that Ahmed Moharam Ahmed Soliman has been declared persona non grata. The Ministry expects the Embassy's diplomatic staff member to leave Ethiopia within Forty-Eight (48) hours from the date of this notification.” The ministry said the decision was taken in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, the international framework governing diplomatic relations between states. According to the notification, the Egyptian diplomat is going to leave Ethiopia within 48 hours of the date of the communication. The statement added that: “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia avails itself of this opportunity to renew to the Embassy of the Arab Republic of Egypt in Addis Ababa the assurances of its highest consideration.”

Staff Writer October 1, 2026 (ENA) From the ballot box to a new government, Ethiopia enters a defining chapter of its democratic journey Ethiopia is moving into a decisive new chapter of its political journey, with the country’s federal government set to be formed following the conclusion of the 7th General Election and the establishment of newly elected regional and city councils. The transition marks a critical moment for Africa’s second-most populous nation, not simply because a new administration is taking shape, but because the country is seeking to translate an enormous electoral exercise into functioning institutions, political representation and a renewed national mandate. On October 5, 2026, Ethiopia is scheduled to inaugurate the newly elected House of People’s Representatives and formally establish the new federal government, completing the constitutional process that followed the June 1 general election. The date represents more than the opening of a new parliamentary term. It is the point at which the ballot box gives way to governance, as elected representatives assume responsibility for translating electoral mandates into policies, laws and public institutions. The 7th General Election was conducted on a scale rarely seen in Ethiopia’s history. More than 54 million citizens registered to vote, while 51.7 million cast ballots, according to the National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE). Forty-two political parties fielded 10,438 candidates, alongside 80 independent candidates, in an electoral process that extended across the country. For Ethiopia, the significance of the moment lies not only in the numbers. It lies in what comes next. From Ballots to Institutions The election has now moved beyond campaigning and voting. Its results are being translated into institutional authority. The Prosperity Party secured 438 of the 501 House of Peoples’ Representatives seats for which results were announced, giving it the parliamentary majority required under Ethiopia’s constitutional system to form the federal executive. The result gives the incoming government a clear parliamentary mandate. But the next chapter will ultimately be measured not by the size of the electoral victory, but by how that mandate is converted into effective governance. That responsibility comes at a consequential time. Ethiopia is simultaneously navigating economic reform, national dialogue, peacebuilding, institutional reform, regional diplomacy and an ambitious development agenda. The new administration will therefore inherit not merely the authority to govern, but a broad set of expectations from citizens, businesses, political actors and international partners. The transition from electioneering to governing will be the real test of the country's institutions. Regional Governments Already Taking Shape The federal transition is being preceded by developments at the regional and city levels.Regional councils have begun constituting their governments and electing their chief administrators, providing the institutional foundation for the next phase of governance. In Addis Ababa, the city council unanimously reappointed Adanech Abiebie as mayor on September 30, giving her another term to lead the capital’s administration. The council cited infrastructure development, administrative reforms and citizen-focused services among the areas of her previous tenure. The developments across the regions and the capital demonstrate that Ethiopia's post-election transition is unfolding through multiple layers of its federal structure rather than through a single event in Addis Ababa. This gradual process—from regional councils to the federal parliament—also underscores the constitutional architecture through which political authority is organized in the country. A Constitutional Transfer of Political Authority Ethiopia's Constitution places the House of People’s Representatives at the center of federal legislative authority and provides the constitutional basis for forming the executive following parliamentary elections. Article 56 provides that the political party or coalition holding a majority in the House forms and leads the federal executive. The election result has therefore established the parliamentary basis for the formation of the next government. The significance of October 5 consequently extends beyond ceremony. It represents the institutional point at which the outcome of the June election becomes a new governing arrangement. For a country with Ethiopia's political complexity, maintaining constitutional continuity during this transition carries particular importance. The election attracted significant continental attention, with the African Union deploying an election observation mission led by former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta. The AU subsequently commended the June 1 election, describing it as an important step in Ethiopia’s democratic evolution and recognizing the role of the National Election Board in administering the process. But the AU’s engagement went beyond election monitoring. As the host of the African Union headquarters and a country with a central diplomatic role on the continent, Ethiopia’s political developments carry significance well beyond its borders. As former President Kenyatta noted ahead of the vote, Ethiopia’s election held importance for the wider African continent. That continental attention now turns to what comes next: the peaceful translation of an electoral mandate into constitutional government. With the new House of Peoples’ Representatives set to open and the federal government to be formed on October 5, Ethiopia is approaching a defining moment. One is that will demonstrate whether electoral competition can be followed by orderly constitutional governance, institutional continuity and a peaceful political transition. Representation Beyond the Winning Party The parliamentary majority gives the Prosperity Party the constitutional basis to form the federal government. At the same time, the presence of opposition representatives in federal and regional legislatures means that Ethiopia's political institutions will continue to contain competing political voices. That matters because democracy does not end when the ballots are counted. The post-election parliament becomes the arena in which competing priorities, interests and political perspectives are translated into legislative debate, scrutiny and public policy. For opposition parties, elected representatives and independent voices, the new parliamentary term provides an institutional platform through which they can represent their constituencies and engage in the country's political process. For the governing party, the parliamentary majority brings the corresponding responsibility of translating its mandate into effective administration and public accountability. The Bigger Test: Turning Political Transition into Peace Perhaps the most important question for Ethiopia now is the new political cycle can help deepen peace and institutional stability. Ethiopia's political history has repeatedly demonstrated the cost of unresolved political disputes. The country's current national dialogue and reconciliation efforts are therefore taking place alongside the formation of the new government. The government has repeatedly presented dialogue, reconciliation and constitutional institutions as important instruments for addressing national challenges. The National Dialogue process has also sought to gather views on longstanding political and social issues across the country. The new government will therefore enter office with expectations extending well beyond economic management. Citizens will look to institutions to deliver security, justice, economic opportunity, public services and accountable governance. Political parties will be expected to compete through institutions rather than confrontation. And the international community will watch how Ethiopia's democratic institutions evolve during the new five-year political cycle. A New Chapter, Not an Ending The formation of a new government is often treated as the conclusion of an election. For Ethiopia, it is better understood as the beginning of the more demanding phase.The ballot has expressed a political choice. The councils are being organized. The federal parliament is preparing to open. The constitutional machinery is moving toward the installation of a new executive. Now comes governance. The coming political term will test whether electoral participation can be converted into stronger institutions; whether political competition can coexist with national dialogue; whether constitutional mechanisms can provide space for disagreement without returning the country to confrontation; and whether the enormous expectations generated by Ethiopia's development ambitions can be matched by institutional capacity. Ethiopia is entering this new chapter with the political authority produced by its seventh general election and with institutions that must now carry that mandate into everyday governance. The country’s democratic journey, therefore, does not end with the announcement of results or the swearing-in of a new government. It moves from the ballot box to the institution, from political competition to public responsibility, and from electoral mandate to the harder work of building peace, prosperity and accountable governance. That is the next chapter Ethiopia is preparing to write.

Addis Ababa, October 1, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia has decided to close its Embassy in Asmara, Eritrea, and declared 10 Eritrean diplomats in Addis Ababa persona non grata and ordered them to leave the country within 48 hours. In a statement issued today, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the decision was taken in response to Eritrea’s direct and indirect acts of hostility and belligerence against Ethiopia. It added that ten Eritrean diplomats were declared persona non grata for their involvement in activities that pose a direct threat to Ethiopia’s national security, in breach of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The diplomats are given 48 hours to leave Ethiopia. The Ministry urged the Eritrean government to cease acts contrary to the principles governing relations between sovereign states. Despite the measures, it said Ethiopia continues to value its historical, cultural and people-to-people ties with Eritrea and remains committed to peaceful coexistence, regional stability and integration. The Ministry also reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to the peaceful resolution of disputes and cooperation with countries in the Horn of Africa to advance lasting peace, security and regional integration.  

Addis Ababa, October 1, 2026 (ENA)— The Office of the Prime Minister stated that Ethiopia has recorded significant developments in logistics, housing, regional infrastructure and diplomatic engagement during September 2026. According to the social media post by the Office of the Prime Minister , Ethiopia registered a range of infrastructure, economic, diplomatic and administrative developments in September 2026, with major activities led by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. On the eve of the Ethiopian New Year, PM Abiy inaugurated the first phase of the expansion of the Mojo Modern Logistics Hub. Built on 60 hectares of land, the expansion includes modern terminals and warehouses capable of handling up to one million 20-foot containers annually. The project demonstrates Ethiopia’s progress toward the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), according to the Office of the Prime Minister. In September, the Prime Minister also witnessed the signing of a framework agreement between the National Bank of Ethiopia and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) for the establishment of Ethiopia’s first specialized mortgage refinancing company. The partnership is aimed at supporting the construction of 1.5 million homes that are affordable and uphold citizens’ dignity, while encouraging private-sector participation. On the diplomatic front, PM Abiy participated in the 18th BRICS Leaders Summit hosted by India. On the sidelines of the summit, he held discussions on bilateral cooperation with leaders of India, Russia, China, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, Malaysia, Kazakhstan and Vietnam. The summit also supported Ethiopia’s preparations for COP32 and its bid to accede to the World Trade Organization. It further unanimously welcomed Ethiopia, endorsed by the African Union, as Africa’s sole candidate for representation at the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). During the month, PM Abiy made an official working visit to Djibouti, where he joined Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh and Aliko Dangote to inaugurate and launch the Dewele-Damerjog Refined Petroleum Products Pipeline Project. The approximately 120-kilometer pipeline connects Damerjog in Djibouti with Dewele in Ethiopia, linking marine fuel receiving and coastal storage facilities with domestic storage and distribution facilities and establishing an integrated fuel logistics system. At the end of September, PM Abiy also attended the groundbreaking ceremony for the Lamu Oil Refinery in Kenya. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony attended by African Heads of State and Government, he described the project as a significant step toward strengthening energy security and advancing regional economic integration in East Africa. The refinery will provide Ethiopia with an additional regional source of refined petroleum, broadening its supply options while creating new opportunities for trade and investment. The month also marked the conclusion of the 2026 Green Legacy Initiative under the theme “Let Us Plant Hope.” PM Abiy and First Lady Zinash Tayachew participated in a tree-planting program alongside senior government officials. In connection with the New Ethiopia Year and the holiday he presented holiday gifts to staff of the Office of the Prime Minister, and donated educational materials to children being raised in the Office’s care and participated in a meal-sharing program with the First Lady.

Addis Ababa, October 1, 2026 (ENA)— Ethiopia has established a national committee to assess economic losses and foregone development opportunities linked to water projects that have been “blocked or obstructed by Egyptians” over the Nile River, Minister of Water and Energy Habtamu Itefa announced. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Habtamu said the committee has so far identified more than 22 development projects, including the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), that Ethiopia were obstructed by Egypt. “We have established a national committee. And as a {committee}, we counted more than 22 projects that have been blocked or obstructed by Egyptians, including the GERD project,” the Minister disclosed. Ethiopia’s longstanding concerns over Nile Basin development inequalities are gaining growing scholarly support, strengthening its case for redress over historical economic losses and foregone development opportunities. In that regard, Minister Habtamu said the newly established committee is compiling evidence on the projects and examining the basis for Ethiopia’s compensation claims. The assessment involves experts, former ministers, advisers and legal professionals who are examining the scale of the losses and possible approaches for addressing them, he pointed out. “We are already collecting the evidence. We have documented as many of the projects as possible that they (Egyptians) opposed, including the GERD, over which they even attempted to threaten Ethiopia, to say as if they have a giant military power and then come to exercise something, which is really a crime in front of the international community,” Habtamu stated. Habtamu further elaborated that the review will consider not only projects that were prevented from being implemented, but also Ethiopia’s environmental conservation efforts and the benefits its water-management infrastructure provides downstream. He cited the Green Legacy Initiative, under which more than 50 billion trees have reportedly been planted, noting that substantial activities have taken place in major river basins, including the Baro, Abay and Tekeze. Habtamu said this conservation efforts should be considered in assessing Ethiopia’s contribution to protecting water resources and addressing climate-related impacts across the Nile Basin. He also highlighted the GERD’s potential role in regulating river flows, saying its operation could help reduce downstream flooding and maintain water availability during periods of lower rainfall. The Minister pointed to current El Niño-related rainfall conditions as an example of the importance of coordinated water management, saying flow regulation could provide benefits to downstream countries, including Sudan and Egypt. Outlining possible scenarios for securing compensation, the Minister said Ethiopia’s approach would have clear milestones, with negotiation and mutual understanding as the preferred option, while other scenarios would involve Ethiopia taking further action.

Addis Ababa, September 30, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrives in Kenya this morning ahead of the groundbreaking ceremony for the multibillion-dollar Lamu Petroleum Refinery. The project, backed by the Dangote Group, represents a major expansion of regional energy infrastructure in East Africa. Situated along the strategic Lamu Port-South Sudan-Ethiopia Transport (LAPSSET) corridor, the facility is designed to process crude oil and supply refined petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, and aviation fuel, across neighboring markets. Once operational, the refinery will strengthen energy security and deepen trade links across East Africa.

Addis Ababa, September 30, 2026 (ENA) — The Addis Ababa City Council has unanimously reappointed Adanech Abiebie as Mayor of Addis Ababa, entrusting her with another term to lead the administration of the capital. The decision was made during the Council’s fourth session, held at the Adwa Victory Memorial, where members cited Adanech’s leadership, commitment and administrative performance in advancing major infrastructure projects, reforming the city’s working culture and expanding citizen-centered services. Council members also highlighted her extensive administrative experience at regional and federal levels, which began with her work as an educator in the Oromia region before she assumed various leadership responsibilities in federal institutions. In assessing her previous tenure, the Council pointed to the transformation of Addis Ababa’s urban landscape, including major public infrastructure and urban development initiatives, as among the key areas of her administration’s performance. Following her unanimous reappointment, Adanech took the oath of office before the Council, formally beginning another term at the helm of the city administration. In her inaugural address, Mayor Adanech said public office should be viewed as a responsibility to citizens rather than an avenue for personal benefit. She pledged to maintain a firm stance against corruption and illicit market practices. She said the performance of the city administration would ultimately be judged by improvements in residents’ everyday lives—including efforts to ease the cost of living, expand employment opportunities for young people, improve public services and address housing, healthcare and infrastructure needs—rather than by statistical reports alone. Adanech also outlined plans to accelerate the implementation of the Digital Ethiopia 2030 vision in Addis Ababa by expanding digital public services and reducing bureaucratic barriers. She further pledged to tackle market manipulation and the role of illegal brokers, while promoting measures aimed at improving market stability and protecting consumers. On economic inclusion, the Mayor said her administration would seek to reduce dependence on aid by supporting micro and small enterprises and creating greater economic opportunities for young people and women.

Addis Ababa, September 29, 2026 (ENA) —Former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Tibor Nagy sharply criticized Eritrea’s leadership and the conditions facing its population, describing the country as an unstable neighbor in the region. In his recent interview with Pulse of Africa, Nagy said Eritrea has had conflicts with all of its neighbors, including Yemen across the Red Sea. He described President Isaias Afwerki as a dictator, saying, “I have called him a dictator because I believe he is a dictator.” According to Nagy, Eritrea has no constitution, has never held elections, and maintains what he described as “national service for eternity.” He also pointed to the large proportion of the population that has fled the country and the burden placed on those who remain. Nagy said Eritreans face an “unbearable burden” and criticized the country’s quality of life, citing the lack of internet access and other forms of isolation. He recalled visiting Eritrea and finding that people could not use credit cards and that the country was significantly behind in areas he considered essential to modern life. Referring to Isaias Afwerki, he said, “Isaias is now holding Eritrea back instead of taking it forward.” Nagy also criticized what he described as imprisonment without trial or charges and extensive human-rights abuses, calling the situation “a tragedy” and “an absolute tragedy.”

Addis Ababa, September 29, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed welcomed Somali President Sheikh Hassan Mohamud at Bole International Airport this morning. The two leaders are expected to discuss on bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest, ENA learned.

Addis Ababa, September 28, 2026 (ENA) —President Taye Atske Selassie held talks with Ambassador Olof Skoog, Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs of the European Union, and Annette Weber, EU Special Representative for the Horn of Africa, on a wide range of regional issues, with a focus on peace and security and economic development. The discussions addressed key regional developments and opportunities for strengthening cooperation in support of peace, stability and sustainable economic development in the Horn of Africa. The talks underscore the importance of continued Ethiopia-EU engagement on regional and economic priorities, as both sides seek to deepen cooperation on issues of mutual interest, the President posted on X.

Addis Ababa, September 28, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has appointed Chaltu Sani as the Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Housing Corporation, effective September 28, 2026. Prior to this appointment, Chaltu served as the Minister of Urban and Infrastructure from October 2021 until September 2026.

Addis Ababa, September 28, 2026 (ENA) —Egypt’s escalating media and political rhetoric over the Nile is partly aimed at diverting public attention from mounting economic and livelihood pressures, journalist and writer Zahid Zidan said. In an exclusive interview with POA, Zahid pointed to rising living costs and economic difficulties in Egypt, saying the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and Nile water issues have increasingly featured in the country’s political and media discourse. His comments come amid continued economic challenges identified by international financial institutions. In a September 21, 2026 assessment, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) said Egypt had shown resilience to recent external shocks but that significant vulnerabilities remained, including high public debt and large financing needs. The IMF has also projected inflation to rise to about 16.7 percent in the second half of 2026, citing higher energy prices, exchange rate pressures and other factors “They want to manufacture anything, any kind of material, a dark weapon to distract the Egyptian public,” Zahid said, arguing that heightened rhetoric over the Nile is being used to shift attention from domestic challenges. He cited what he described as claims in some Egyptian media outlets concerning the potential effects of GERD, as well as allegations that Ethiopia intends to transfer water to Israel. According to Zahid, such narratives contribute to keeping the dam at the center of public debate. He stressed that his criticism was directed at Egyptian media platforms and political figures whom he accused of exploiting external disputes, rather than at the Egyptian people. He said ordinary Egyptians are primarily concerned with everyday challenges, including meeting basic needs, earning livelihoods and supporting their families. The remarks come amid renewed exchanges between Ethiopia and Egypt over Nile water development. Ethiopia has consistently maintained that it has a sovereign right to develop its natural resources, including the Abay River, while advocating cooperation and shared development among Nile Basin countries. In a September 22 statement responding to remarks by Egyptian Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hani Sewilam, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Water and Energy reaffirmed the country’s right to utilize its natural resources and said transboundary rivers should promote “cooperation, shared prosperity, and regional integration.” The completion of GERD has also strengthened calls within Ethiopia for further investment in hydropower and irrigation projects along the Abay River. Supporters of additional development argue that the experience gained from GERD can help expand renewable electricity generation, strengthen energy security, support agricultural development and increase cross-border power connectivity.

Addis Ababa, September 28, 2026 (ENA) — Negatively perceiving Ethiopia’s legitimate pursuit of dependable access to the sea is problematic and reflects malicious concerns against the country, Director General for African Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Zerihun Abebe, said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Ambassador Zerihun emphasized that Ethiopia’s peace, development, prosperity, resilience, and renaissance are a blessing to the Red Sea region, rather than a threat. Historically, Ethiopia has consistently contributed to efforts to counter terrorism and piracy, while working with neighboring countries to build their capacities and strengthen regional cooperation. "Our track record clearly shows we have been a force for peace, a force for development in the region," Ambassador Zerihun stated, highlighting Ethiopia's significant sacrifices in support of regional peace and stability, including in Sudan and Somalia. The director-general pointed out that Ethiopia has legitimate maritime, security, demographic, political, and economic interests that underpin its pursuit of reliable access to the sea. These interests are not exclusive to Ethiopia and can complement the interests of neighboring countries, contributing to broader regional stability. Ambassador Zerihun noted, "When we stand together in a region which is volatile, with various contending powers, it will help us come together and address our common challenges." The ambassador also noted the shared security challenges facing countries around the Red Sea and its basin, including piracy, terrorism, and other security threats. Such common challenges should encourage countries in the region to strengthen cooperation. "For us, we are together, and we are destined to live together, and we share common interests", Ambassador Zerihun emphasized. He added that perceiving Ethiopia's legitimate interest in a distorted manner is very problematic and clearly shows malicious interest against Ethiopia. The director-general elaborated that Ethiopia’s quest for dependable, secure, and reliable access to the sea is based on economic, political, and security considerations. "So, perceiving Ethiopia's legitimate interest in a different way is very problematic, and it clearly shows the malicious interest against Ethiopia. But for Ethiopia, its quest for access to the sea is legitimate; and it has economic foundations, political foundations, security foundations."

Addis Ababa, September 28, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia’s Council of Ministers has approved a series of legislative and regulatory measures aimed at reshaping federal institutions, strengthening data governance, modernizing the power sector, improving tax administration and reinforcing the legal framework governing the national defense forces. The Council first deliberated on a draft proclamation determining the powers and responsibilities of executive organs. Formulated pursuant to Article 56 of the FDRE Constitution following the 2026 national elections, the legislation establishes the institutional structure for federal executive entities to effectively execute their mandates during the upcoming term. Following extensive discussions, the Council incorporated key inputs and unanimously referred the draft to the House of Peoples’ Representatives. Addressing digital transformation priorities, the session evaluated the National Data Governance Draft Proclamation. Designed to secure data sovereignty, streamline government service delivery through system interoperability, expand artificial intelligence research, and drive data-led economic growth, the Council unanimously referred the enhanced bill to the parliamentary body. On development financing, the Council approved a draft proclamation ratifying a 145.8 million SDR loan agreement signed with the International Development Association. Allocating funds toward Phase One of the Power Sector Reform, Investment, and Modernization Project, the Council verified the agreement’s full alignment with the national debt policy before referring it to the House of People’s Representatives for final enactment. In tax governance, the Council passed amendments to the Federal Income Tax Regulation and the Federal Value Added Tax Regulation. The income tax revision aligns administrative procedures with Federal Income Tax Proclamation No. 979/2016 to enhance operational transparency. The value added tax adjustment addresses tax structures for former turnover tax collectors while exempting essential consumer items to safeguard household purchasing power and boost local industrial competitiveness. Following an extensive discussion on the draft regulations, the Council unanimously decided to implement it right after its publication in the Negarit Newspaper. Finally, the Council reviewed proposed amendments to Defense Forces Proclamation No. 1286/2023. Intended to strengthen the legal framework enabling the national armed forces to execute their constitutional mandates outlined under Article 87, the Council unanimously resolved to send the draft bill to the House of Peoples’ Representatives.

Addis Ababa, September 27, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopian President Taye Atske-Selassie held talks with UAE Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan on the margins of the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81) High-Level Week in New York. The two sides exchanged views on strengthening the longstanding Ethiopia-UAE partnership, expanding joint development initiatives and enhancing cooperation on regional and multilateral issues of mutual interest. “On the sidelines of the 81st UNGA, I met with Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan, Minister of State of the UAE. We exchanged views on further deepening our bilateral ties, expanding joint development initiatives, strengthening cooperation in regional and multilateral issues of importance,” President Taye said in a post on X.   The meeting came as Ethiopia intensifies high-level diplomatic engagements during UNGA81, using the global gathering to advance bilateral partnerships and strengthen cooperation on shared regional and international priorities. Ethiopia and the UAE have developed broad relations spanning development, investment and other areas of mutual interest, with both countries continuing to explore opportunities to expand their cooperation.

By Staff Writer Sept. 27, 2026 (ENA) Ethiopia’s diplomatic outreach, regional connectivity and economic transformation took centre stage during the week of September 20–26, as the country pursued an increasingly interconnected agenda spanning maritime access, global trade, energy, digital finance and regional integration. At the centre of the week was Ethiopia’s engagement at the 81st United Nations General Assembly, where President Taye Atske Selassie placed reliable sea access, stronger African representation in global institutions, multilateral reform, regional peace and sustainable development high on the international agenda. Back home and across the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia also advanced major economic and infrastructure initiatives. A new petroleum-products pipeline linking Ethiopia and Djibouti was announced, the country’s long-running bid to join the World Trade Organization moved into its final phase, and tourism posted more than 1.6 million international arrivals and over 5 billion USD in revenue during the 2018 Ethiopian Fiscal Year. This strategic infrastructure project aimed at further strengthening economic ties and cooperation between the two east African nations, was officially announced in the presence of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and President Ismail Omar Guelleh. Particularly, the project connecting Damerjog in Djibouti to Dewele in Ethiopia through a new refined petroleum products pipeline is supported by storage terminals at both ends. Together, the developments pointed to a broader national strategy: strengthening Ethiopia’s position in global institutions while building the infrastructure, trade links, energy systems and digital platforms needed to support long-term economic transformation. Sea Access Moves to the Global Diplomatic Agenda Ethiopia’s pursuit of reliable maritime access emerged as one of the most prominent themes of its participation in the UN General Assembly. Addressing the General Debate in New York, President Taye said Ethiopia was pursuing all possible diplomatic avenues to secure access to and from the sea, linking the issue directly to the country’s economic transformation and integration into global trade. He also stressed that the question could be addressed in a manner that serves the common interests and development of countries in the region.   The President’s UN address placed the maritime issue within a wider diplomatic framework that included African representation in global decision-making, multilateral reform, regional peace, climate action, renewable energy and technological transformation. He also presented the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a Pan-African clean-energy project capable of contributing to regional prosperity, while reaffirming Ethiopia’s commitment to regional integration and peaceful cooperation. Ethiopia-Djibouti Pipeline Deepens Regional Connectivity A major infrastructure announcement during the week added a powerful economic dimension to Ethiopia’s regional integration agenda. Ethiopia, Djibouti and the Dangote Group announced plans for a 120-kilometre refined petroleum-products pipeline connecting Damerjog in Djibouti with Dewele in Ethiopia, supported by storage facilities at both ends with combined capacity exceeding one million cubic metres. The project is being developed through a partnership between Ethiopian Investment Holdings and the Dangote Group. The planned infrastructure is designed to reduce Ethiopia’s reliance on tanker-truck transportation, cut logistics costs, ease congestion along the corridor and improve the efficiency and reliability of fuel distribution. Beyond fuel logistics, the project carries wider regional significance. It adds another layer to the economic relationship between Ethiopia and Djibouti and illustrates how infrastructure can turn regional integration from a diplomatic objective into practical economic connectivity. WTO Accession Enters Final Stretch Ethiopia’s long-running effort to join the World Trade Organization also moved closer to completion. The Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration said the accession process has reached the final stage of drafting the Working Party Report. Ethiopia is simultaneously pursuing bilateral market-access negotiations, with agreements concluded with 11 of 17 negotiating partners while discussions continue with the remaining six.   For Ethiopia, WTO membership is closely linked to its broader economic reform programme. The government expects accession to provide a more predictable framework for international trade, expand market opportunities, strengthen institutional capacity and support greater integration into global value chains. The process therefore represents more than a diplomatic milestone; it is part of Ethiopia’s effort to reposition its economy within the global trading system. Tourism Emerges as a Strong Foreign-Exchange Earner Tourism delivered another notable economic signal during the week. Ethiopia welcomed more than 1.6 million international tourists during the 2018 Ethiopian Fiscal Year, generating over 5 billion USD in revenue, according to the Ministry of Tourism. International arrivals increased by more than 300,000 from the previous fiscal year, while foreign-exchange earnings rose by more than 21 percent.   The figures came ahead of World Tourism Day on September 27, whose 2026 theme focuses on digital technology and artificial intelligence and their potential to reshape tourism. Ethiopia is also seeking to improve the visitor experience through digital tools. A new Tourist Information Center near Bole International Airport has been inaugurated with digital maps and multimedia displays designed to promote the country’s cultural, historical and natural attractions. Digital Finance Becomes Part of Economic Infrastructure Ethiopia also used the UN General Assembly week to showcase its progress in digital financial inclusion. At a high-level side event jointly organized by Ethiopia’s Permanent Mission to the UN and the United Nations Capital Development Fund, officials and development partners examined the expansion of digital payments, national digital identity and digital public infrastructure.   The discussions reflected an important shift in Ethiopia’s digital-development narrative: digital finance is increasingly being treated not merely as a financial service but as part of the country’s wider economic infrastructure. Digital identity, interoperable payments and digitally enabled public services are being linked to entrepreneurship, productivity, financial inclusion and the Sustainable Development Goals. The government highlighted initiatives including Digital Ethiopia 2030, Fayda, interoperable payment systems and BRIDGE 2030 as components of this emerging digital ecosystem. The next challenge, officials and development partners noted, is to move beyond access and ensure that digital systems translate into productive economic opportunities for households and businesses. Energy Exports Strengthen Regional Economic Links Renewable energy remained another important pillar of Ethiopia’s regional economic strategy. According to Ethiopian Electric Power CEO Ashebir Balcha, the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam accounts for 52 percent of Ethiopia’s electricity export revenue, while total electricity-export earnings have surpassed 500 million USD. Ethiopia currently exports electricity to Kenya, Djibouti, Sudan and Tanzania. The figures underline the growing role of electricity trade in Ethiopia’s economic and regional integration agenda. The GERD is increasingly positioned not only as a national power-generation project but also as part of a broader regional energy network—linking renewable-energy production with exports, foreign-exchange generation and cross-border economic cooperation. Peace and Regional Integration Remain Central Alongside economic diplomacy, Ethiopia continued to emphasize regional peace and cooperation. At the UN, President Taye reiterated Ethiopia’s support for a Sudanese-led and Sudanese-owned process to achieve lasting peace in Sudan, while also highlighting regional integration through infrastructure, trade and people-to-people relations. This approach reflects the increasingly close connection Ethiopia draws between peace, connectivity and economic development across the Horn of Africa. Infrastructure corridors, energy trade, maritime connectivity and regional institutions are increasingly being viewed as parts of the same broader equation: creating an environment in which economic integration can reinforce regional stability.   A Week That Connected Diplomacy with Development The developments of September 20–26 presented a picture of Ethiopia pursuing several strategic priorities simultaneously. At the global level, the UN General Assembly provided a platform to advance Ethiopia’s positions on maritime access, African representation, multilateral reform, climate action and regional peace. At the regional level, the Ethiopia-Djibouti petroleum pipeline added fresh momentum to infrastructure-led integration, while expanding electricity exports continued to strengthen cross-border economic links. At the economic level, WTO accession moved into its final stretch, tourism generated more than $5 billion in revenue, and digital finance gained greater prominence as an element of economic infrastructure. Consequently, the week’s developments highlighted an increasingly interconnected Ethiopian agenda—from diplomacy to trade, from sea access to infrastructure, from renewable energy to digital finance, and from regional connectivity to global economic integration. The common thread is clear: Ethiopia is seeking to translate diplomatic engagement and infrastructure investment into broader economic connectivity, while positioning regional cooperation as an important component of its long-term development trajectory.

By Staff Writer Sept. 27, 2026 (ENA) Ethiopia’s diplomacy is entering a new era—less confined to traditional political relations and increasingly driven by economic interests, strategic partnerships and a wider global footprint. Over the past eight years, Ethiopia has significantly broadened the arenas in which it engages the world. From Addis Ababa’s role as the diplomatic capital of Africa to its entry into BRICS, from the Pretoria peace process to the Ankara Declaration, from renewed WTO negotiations to a seat on the UN Human Rights Council, Ethiopia has expanded the platforms through which it seeks to shape regional and international affairs. The story is not about one diplomatic breakthrough. It is about the widening of Ethiopia’s diplomatic space. From Addis Ababa to BRICS One of the clearest symbols of this expansion is Ethiopia’s entry into BRICS. At the Johannesburg Summit in August 2023, BRICS leaders invited Ethiopia to become a full member, with membership taking effect on January 1, 2024. For Addis Ababa, BRICS opened another channel to engage major emerging economies and participate in discussions spanning politics and security, economic and financial cooperation, and people-to-people relations. More importantly, the move reflected a broader diplomatic strategy: diversification. Ethiopia has sought to deepen relations simultaneously with African partners, emerging economies, Western countries, Gulf states and Asian powers rather than allowing its international engagement to depend on a narrow circle of partners. Diplomacy With an Economic Purpose Perhaps the most important change has been the growing weight of economic diplomacy. Foreign policy is increasingly being connected to investment, trade, tourism, technology, infrastructure and market access. Diplomatic missions are expected not only to represent Ethiopia politically, but also to help connect the country with capital, markets and commercial opportunities. That shift mirrors Ethiopia’s own economic transformation. As the country seeks greater export capacity, investment and industrial development, diplomacy increasingly becomes an economic instrument. The embassy is no longer only a political bridge; it is increasingly part of the economic bridge. Regional Diplomacy Under Strategic Pressure Ethiopia’s geographic position makes regional diplomacy unavoidable. The country sits at the intersection of the Horn of Africa, the Nile Basin and the Red Sea, where security, trade, migration, infrastructure and political interests overlap. The Ankara Declaration with Somalia in December 2024 demonstrated the role of dialogue in addressing difficult regional questions. Ethiopia and Somalia reaffirmed respect for each other’s sovereignty, unity, independence and territorial integrity and agreed to pursue cooperation toward shared prosperity. The significance extends beyond one declaration. It illustrates Ethiopia’s attempt to keep contentious regional questions within diplomatic channels while pursuing its strategic and economic interests. From Conflict Management to African Diplomacy Pretoria put Ethiopia at the center of one of Africa’s most consequential peace efforts. But even under the scrutiny of African and international mediators, the TPLF repeatedly came under fire for actions that threatened to undermine the commitments of the agreement—exposing the difficult path from a signed peace deal to durable stability. The broader lesson is that Ethiopia’s diplomatic weight is not derived only from its size or geographic position. It also comes from its role in continental institutions. Addis Ababa hosts the African Union headquarters, making the city a permanent meeting point for African leaders, diplomats and international organizations. That institutional position gives Ethiopia a distinctive platform from which to engage debates on peace, security, development and continental integration. A Seat at the Global Table Ethiopia’s election to the UN Human Rights Council for the 2025–2027 term further expanded its multilateral presence. The UN General Assembly elected Ethiopia among 18 members on October 9, 2024; the Council consists of 47 states. Such positions provide Ethiopia with additional opportunities to participate directly in international policymaking and multilateral diplomacy. The significance is therefore not simply symbolic. Representation creates another diplomatic channel through which Ethiopia can present its positions, negotiate interests and participate in shaping international discussions. The WTO Door Is Opening Wider Ethiopia’s long-running WTO accession process has also regained momentum. The WTO said in September 2025 that the process had entered a “decisive phase.” By April 2026, the organization described the negotiations as having reached a “decisive juncture,” with Ethiopia reporting further domestic reforms and continued engagement with WTO members. The accession process matters because it connects diplomacy directly to the structure of Ethiopia’s economy. Joining the multilateral trading system would deepen Ethiopia’s engagement with global markets while requiring continued reforms to trade-related institutions and regulations. In this sense, WTO diplomacy is not simply about Geneva.It is about transforming how Ethiopia trades with the world. The Red Sea Enters the Diplomatic Equation Few issues demonstrate the changing character of Ethiopian diplomacy more clearly than the Red Sea. For a landlocked country whose economy depends heavily on maritime trade, developments around the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb have direct economic and strategic consequences. Maritime connectivity has consequently moved higher on Ethiopia’s diplomatic agenda. The issue intersects with trade, logistics, regional security and economic integration, bringing Ethiopia into discussions that extend well beyond its borders. The Red Sea question therefore illustrates the central feature of Ethiopia’s evolving diplomacy: national economic interests and regional strategy are becoming increasingly intertwined. A Wider Circle of Partners Ethiopia’s engagement with China, India, Russia, the United States, European countries and Gulf states has developed alongside its relationships with African neighbors and its participation in BRICS. The objective is not necessarily to choose one geopolitical camp. It is to expand Ethiopia’s room for diplomatic and economic engagement. That wider network gives Addis Ababa more channels for cooperation in investment, infrastructure, trade, technology, security and development. The result is a foreign policy increasingly built around multiple partnerships rather than a single diplomatic axis. The Real Test Begins Now Yet diplomatic expansion is not an end in itself. The coming years will determine whether Ethiopia can convert diplomatic access into concrete economic opportunities, stronger regional connectivity, expanded investment, deeper trade and durable partnerships. Memberships, declarations, elections and summits create platforms. What matters next is what Ethiopia builds on those platforms. The past eight years have nevertheless marked a notable expansion of Ethiopia’s diplomatic reach. BRICS has opened another global platform. The Human Rights Council has strengthened its multilateral presence. Pretoria demonstrated the potential of African-led diplomacy. Ankara created a framework for renewed engagement with Somalia. WTO negotiations have gained fresh momentum. Economic diplomacy has become increasingly central to foreign policy, while the Red Sea has emerged as a strategic priority. Consequently, these developments point to a broader transformation. Ethiopia is no longer approaching diplomacy simply as a means of maintaining relationships. It is increasingly using diplomacy to pursue markets, partnerships, connectivity, security and national development. From the African Union headquarters in Addis Ababa to the BRICS table, from regional peace initiatives to global trade negotiations, Ethiopia’s diplomatic map has expanded considerably. The next chapter will be defined not by how many doors Ethiopia has opened, but by how effectively it turns those openings into lasting national and regional gains.

By Neway Abay S. Ethiopia has never truly been a stranger to the Red Sea. Long before modern borders redrew the map of the Horn of Africa, Ethiopian civilization was connected to the Red Sea through trade, diplomacy and coastal gateways linking the highlands with Arabia, the Mediterranean and the wider Indian Ocean world. That historic connection was eventually severed. But geography was not. Today, Ethiopia is a country of more than 130 million people, one of Africa’s largest economies and a major economic center in the Horn of Africa—yet it remains without a coastline. For decades, its international trade has depended heavily on neighboring ports, particularly Djibouti. The World Bank continues to describe Djibouti as Ethiopia’s primary maritime gateway, while recent assessments underline how disruptions along the corridor can translate directly into higher logistics costs and economic pressure inside Ethiopia. That reality has turned maritime access from a historical question into a contemporary economic, security and strategic one. Geography Cannot Be Negotiated Away Ethiopia’s loss of direct access to the sea did not erase its geographic position. The country remains at the center of the Horn of Africa, immediately adjoining one of the world’s most consequential maritime regions. The Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab el-Mandeb connect Africa with the Middle East, Asia and Europe and disruptions there can reverberate through global trade, energy markets and supply chains. For Ethiopia, the consequences are particularly direct.   A landlocked economy of this scale cannot treat maritime connectivity as a peripheral concern. Every container entering or leaving the country ultimately depends on a corridor connecting the interior to the coast. The current system has created an important economic relationship with Djibouti, but it has also exposed the structural vulnerability of relying overwhelmingly on a single maritime gateway. The Addis-Djibouti corridor remains vital to Ethiopian trade, while the World Bank notes that disruptions and inefficiencies along the wider logistics chain can affect businesses and consumers. The question, therefore, is no longer whether Ethiopia is interested in the sea. It is how a country of Ethiopia’s demographic and economic weight can build reliable, diversified and sustainable maritime connectivity. Most importantly, the rapidly shifting political and military dynamics in the Red Sea and Horn of Africa have made sovereign sea access not merely desirable for Ethiopia, but increasingly unavoidable. The Red Sea Is No Longer Just a Trade Route The strategic importance of the Red Sea has become impossible to ignore. The Bab el-Mandeb is a critical maritime chokepoint. Recent disruptions have demonstrated how quickly insecurity at sea can become an economic problem on land, raising freight costs, extending shipping times and disrupting supply chains. UN Trade and Development has recently warned that renewed disruptions around Bab el-Mandeb are creating longer routes, higher fuel consumption, greater costs and additional pressure on global trade. For Ethiopia, this creates a striking paradox. Although the country has no coastline, instability along the Red Sea can affect its economy directly.   Ethiopia therefore has a substantial stake in the security of a maritime space in which it currently has limited direct presence. This is why the Red Sea question cannot be reduced to the search for a port. It is about connectivity, economic security and regional stability. From a Port to a Corridor Ethiopia’s maritime ambition makes greater sense when viewed not as a search for a single coastal facility, but as part of a much larger economic corridor. A functioning maritime connection would link the coast to Ethiopia’s roads, railways, dry ports, industrial parks, agricultural production centers and consumer markets. The objective would not simply be to move containers andiIt would be to move an economy. That distinction matters. A port without an efficient inland network is only a point on a map. A port connected to production, manufacturing, agriculture and regional markets becomes an engine of economic integration. Ethiopia’s experience with the Djibouti corridor already demonstrates the importance of this wider system. The World Bank’s recent work on Modjo Dry Port, for example, highlights how improvements in inland logistics can reduce processing delays and strengthen Ethiopia’s links to international markets. The next stage of Ethiopia’s maritime thinking can therefore be understood as the search for multiple corridors, multiple gateways and greater resilience. Economic Security Is Maritime Security The Red Sea has also exposed another reality: maritime security and economic security are increasingly inseparable. When shipping routes are threatened, insurance costs rise. When vessels divert around dangerous waters, delivery times increase. When freight costs rise, the consequences eventually reach factories, farmers, traders and households far from the coastline.   Ethiopia does not need to be a coastal country to experience these consequences. Indeed, its landlocked position makes reliable maritime access even more important. A diversified maritime strategy could give Ethiopia greater resilience against disruptions while creating additional opportunities for trade, investment and industrial development. It could also strengthen the economic interests that Ethiopia shares with its coastal neighbors. A Return to the Sea Need Not Mean a Return to Rivalry There is another dimension to Ethiopia’s maritime question that deserves greater attention. Access to the sea does not necessarily have to become another source of regional competition. It can become an instrument of regional integration. A port serving Ethiopian trade can generate business for a coastal state. A road or railway linking the interior to the coast can connect multiple economies. Industrial and logistics zones can create jobs and investment on both sides of a border. In that sense, Ethiopia’s maritime aspirations can be framed not simply as a national demand, but as part of a broader Horn of Africa economic equation. The region has spent decades treating geography as a source of strategic rivalry. It can also treat geography as an opportunity for integration. Ethiopia’s Maritime Question Is Growing, Not Fading Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has repeatedly underscored that Ethiopia’s desire for sea access in terms of geography, economic necessity, dialogue and mutually beneficial cooperation rather than military expansion. The Ethiopian government has stated that the country’s demographic and economic scale makes dependable maritime connectivity an important national interest. That argument sits within a broader reality. Ethiopia is not the same country it was three decades ago. Its population and economy have expanded. Its trade ambitions have grown. Its industrial and agricultural production is becoming more integrated with international markets. And its exposure to disruptions along global shipping routes is increasing. The maritime question will therefore become more—not less—important as Ethiopia’s economy expands. The revival of attention to maritime affairs, including the re-establishment of the Ethiopian Navy in 2018, reflects this broader strategic shift. But the ultimate objective need not be the projection of power. It can be the protection of economic interests, participation in regional maritime security and the creation of durable commercial links between the Ethiopian interior and the global economy. The Geography of the Future The central fact remains remarkably simple: Ethiopia’s landlocked status is a historical tragedy shaped by external forces and political decisions made during a turbulent period—decisions that profoundly altered the country’s relationship with the sea. Yet the giant nation has never truly been disconnected from the Red Sea. Its economy depends on maritime trade. Its security environment is shaped by the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb. Its geographic position places it at the heart of the Horn of Africa. And its growing population and economy make dependable access to international trade routes increasingly consequential. The challenge, therefore, is not to recreate history exactly as it was. It is to build a new relationship with the sea suited to the realities of the 21st century. That means ports—but also corridors. It means trade—but also security. It means national interest—but also regional cooperation.   And above all, it means recognizing that the Red Sea is not a distant body of water separated from Ethiopia by political boundaries. It is part of the strategic geography in which Ethiopia’s future is being shaped. For a country whose civilization has been connected to the Red Sea for centuries, the renewed search for maritime connectivity is not simply a journey backward into history. It is Ethiopia looking toward the future and back toward the sea.

Addis Ababa, September 27, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has appointed Abraham Belay (PhD) as Commissioner of the Ethiopian Nuclear Energy Commission, effective September 14, 2026. Abraham, who has served in several senior government positions, most recently served as Minister of Irrigation and Lowland Areas. His appointment comes as Ethiopia advances its efforts to develop the peaceful use of nuclear energy as part of its broader strategy to expand clean, reliable and sustainable energy sources, it was learned.

Addis Ababa, September 26, 2026 (ENA) —Stronger partnerships, shared solutions and renewed commitment are essential to accelerate progress toward the 2030 Agenda, East African Affairs Advisor to the Prime Minister, Getachew Reda said. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development is a global development framework adopted by all UN Member States in 2015. At the Global Development Initiative (GDI) High-Level Dialogue held on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly, Getachew underscored the critical importance of revitalizing global partnerships for sustainable development, stressing the need to translate shared commitments into tangible development outcomes.   The Adviser highlighted that the GDI as a practical, results-oriented partnership that can help accelerate implementation of the SDGs and advance development priorities. He also emphasized the importance of prioritizing key transitions with catalytic and multiplier effects across the SDGs, particularly in poverty eradication, energy, food systems, finance, digital transformation, education and climate action.   Getachew further stressed the importance of drawing on the comparative advantages, experiences and successes of country-led initiatives, strengthening cooperation and learning from solutions that are delivering results on the ground.