Addis Ababa, January 18, 2026 (ENA)—African and international leaders have agreed to consolidate all mediation efforts under an African Union (AU)-led framework to address the protracted conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The decision followed a high-level, two-day summit in Lomé, chaired by Togo’s President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, the AU-mandated mediator for the Great Lakes crisis. Leaders endorsed a unified mediation structure, including the creation of an Independent Joint Secretariat to support the AU Panel of Facilitators, which includes former presidents from Nigeria, Kenya, Central African Republic, Botswana, and Ethiopia. The summit called on all parties to implement existing peace commitments, prioritize political dialogue over military action, and resume negotiations under the Doha process with the Congolese government and the M23 armed group. Leaders also welcomed prior diplomatic efforts, including U.S.-brokered agreements between DRC and Rwanda and the Doha Declaration and Framework Agreement, while highlighting the Paris Conference on the Great Lakes as a milestone in mobilizing international support. In a statement on X, Gnassingbé emphasized that only a coordinated, durable political solution can restore peace, security, and stability for the Great Lakes region. Violence in eastern Congo has persisted for decades, displacing millions and making it one of Africa’s most enduring humanitarian crises.

Addis Ababa, January 18, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s national dialogue, which has involved all segments of the society, has reached its critical and concluding phase, according to House of People’s Representatives Speaker Tagesse Chafo. Established by the House of People’s Representatives under Proclamation No. 1265/2022, the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission is an independent institution with the mandate to conduct inclusive dialogue aimed at resolving Ethiopia’s fundamental differences of ideas and disagreements. The Commission is working to build a national consensus by conducting broad-based and inclusive public consultations on fundamental national issues. In this regard, it has successfully carried out identifying participant and agenda-collection processes on major national matters suitable for dialogue, and has now reached the final stage of the process, the Speaker noted. He told the Ethiopian News Agency that the National Dialogue Commission is conducting an active dialogue process with the meaningful participation of Ethiopians who are deeply concerned about national issues. According to him, the Commission has been carrying out successful work across regional states, city administrations, and the Diaspora by collecting agendas and identifying participants for the main dialogue process. He noted that a wide range of stakeholders, including civil society organizations, university instructors, and other segments of society, have taken part in the dialogue process. As a result, this is a unique and successful consultation process in which Ethiopians contributed ideas that they believed serve the best interests of their country. Speaker Tagesse further stated that a clear methodology has been designed to implement and guide the final phase of the dialogue, and called on all stakeholders to fulfill their responsibilities so that the remaining work can be completed successfully. As issues related to history, law, and governance can be addressed through dialogue, the national dialogue presents a crucial opportunity to do so, he added. Speaker Tagesse has called on stakeholders in Tigray region to actively participate in the ongoing dialogue process and play their role in ensuring its success. Ethiopia is a country endowed with great potential and resources, he noted, emphasizing that Ethiopians can achieve remarkable outcomes through dialogue, discussion, and mutual understanding. The House of People’s Representatives has been providing continuous support for the national dialogue process, beginning from enacting laws and establishing institutions that closely follow its day-to-day activities. The Speaker finally affirmed that the government is ready to implement the outcome of the dialogue that represents the will and decision of the people.

Addis Ababa, January 18, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia is a very important BRICS partner that brings a lot of knowledge and expertise in all aspects of the BRICS activities, India’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Anil Kuma Rai, told ENA. Recall that India has assumed the BRICS chairmanship on 1 January, 2026. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the Ambassador said Ethiopia is a very important partner of BRICS that brings a lot of knowledge and expertise in all aspects of the BRICS activities. The agendas for the year are to promote innovation and to create an ecosystem where the developing countries have their own way of dealing with things, he added. As a major developing country of the African continent, Ethiopia is going to participate in most of the important events which are taking place throughout the year under BRICS. For Ambassador Rai, Ethiopia’s participation strengthens the ideas of South-South solidarity, and also brings its rich experience. The country brings rich experience in the form of green growth, urban renewal, green technologies; and also the leadership, which is needed to ensure peace during the turbulent times, he further explained. With regard to cooperation between Ethiopia and India, Rai emphasized that Ethiopia is an important partner from the Global South, and there are multiple areas where both countries can cooperate. Health is an important sector; so are agriculture and food security, he noted, adding that “in agriculture, we have specific technologies which are related to Nano-fertilizers, seed technology, food processing technology and climate tolerant varieties.” Regarding innovation, the Ambassador said India is hosting the artificial intelligence impact summit in February, for which it has extended invitation to the Ethiopian government. Artificial intelligence, which is also one of the agenda items for the government of Ethiopia, is a sector where we can work together, he stated. On Ethiopia’s Homegrown Economic Reform, Ambassador Rai said the banking and financial sector and fin-tech sector has been opened up, noting that this is a sector where India is very strong and ready to share experiences. India has recently successfully completed its digital strategy through digital public infrastructure, which gives a digital identity to citizens, and then becomes a backbone for delivery of services, he said. “We have committed ourselves to support Ethiopia in this direction.” Ethiopia recently launched Digital Ethiopia 2030 (DE2030) in December 2025, building on Digital Ethiopia 2025 to drive comprehensive digital transformation, focusing on digital sovereignty, citizen-centric services, inclusive growth, digital infrastructure, and positioning Ethiopia as a tech hub.

Addis Ababa, January 17, 2026 (ENA)—The European Union has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening cooperation with Ethiopia across key strategic areas, following high-level discussions between Ethiopian leadership and the European External Action Service. European External Action Service (EEAS) Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Olof Skoog, paid an official visit to Ethiopia this week, where he held discussions with Foreign Minister Gedion Timothowes, President Taye Atske Selassie, and other senior government officials. The talks focused on reviewing the state of EU–Ethiopia relations and identifying opportunities to further strengthen collaboration. Approached by ENA, Skoog described EU–Ethiopia relations as holding “great promise,” particularly at a time when global challenges are placing increasing pressure on the international institutions. “We believe that in the current geopolitical juncture where there are some big players who are questioning the UN Charter and international law, those of us who hold these values and principles very dear, need cooperate and stay close together.” He emphasized that countries and institutions committed to multilateralism, international law, and the principles of the UN Charter must work more closely together amid the evolving global geopolitical landscape. Security cooperation featured prominently in the discussions, including shared concerns over stability in the Red Sea and the Horn of Africa. “We've also discussed security around the Red Sea in the horn of Africa, but also in Europe, and how we can cooperate also on that,” the deputy secretary-general revealed. On counter-terrorism, Skoog said it is a potential area where the EU and Ethiopia will deepen their collaboration. Enhanced economic cooperation and sustainable development within countries, as well as across the region, would greatly benefit from stronger cross-border economic integration, an area where Europe is looking to make a potential contribution, he added. He added that the European Union has been strongly supportive of Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms and sees considerable potential to expand trade and investment between the two partners. He emphasized that, beyond various supports, Europe seeks to contribute to Ethiopia’s broader economic development by sharing expertise in modern technology. He further stated: “We want to be part of the economic development of Ethiopia.” He noted that promoting sustainable approaches to growth is also a part Europe could contribute, highlighting a long-term commitment to fostering inclusive and resilient development in the country. Skoog noted that a favorable business climate could attract European companies to explore the business in Ethiopia boosting trade and investment. He added that Europe aims to contribute to Ethiopia’s development through modern technology and sustainable development approaches. Skoog said the EU and Ethiopia “see eye to eye” on the climate agenda and discussed enhanced cooperation ahead of the upcoming COP climate conference to be hosted in Ethiopia. Addressing regional tensions, Skoog acknowledged that conflicts and heated rhetoric persist in parts of the Horn of Africa. However, he underscored that both sides remain focused on de-escalation through dialogue. He noted the importance of reviving diplomatic engagement, pursuing political solutions to address the root causes of conflict is crucial to strengthening regional cooperation as a sustainable and constructive alternative to conflict.

Addis Ababa, January 16, 2026 (ENA)-- Ethiopia and Morocco have convened their first-ever joint defense committee meeting aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation across various military fields on Thursday. The discussion includes advancing military cooperation between the two countries in ways that ensure mutual benefit for their respective defense institutions. Cooperation in education and training, defense industry collaboration, technology transfer, and other areas of military engagement were also discussed. Major General Teshome Gemechu, Director General of External Relations and Military Cooperation at the ENDF, said relations between Ethiopia and Morocco are steadily strengthening across multiple sectors. He noted that the longstanding friendship between the two countries reflects African solidarity and a shared commitment to working together for common interests. He also stated that the joint committee meeting marked a historic milestone in Ethiopia–Morocco relations, opening a new phase for the practical implementation of agreed areas of cooperation. Brigadier General Abdelkahar Atmane, Director of the Quartermaster Directorate of the Royal Armed Forces of Morocco, described the agreement reached during the meeting as a significant development in military relations. He said Morocco is determined to further elevate defense cooperation with Ethiopia, adding that progress achieved so far has been encouraging. He further noted that Morocco has initiated the process of utilizing Ethiopian defense supplies, stating that implementation of this initiative is expected to begin in the near future.

Addis Ababa, January 15, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia and India have formally implemented a mutual visa waiver agreement for holders of diplomatic passports, effective today, marking a significant step toward strengthening diplomatic engagement between the two countries. The agreement, which allows visa-free travel for eligible diplomatic officials of both nations, aims to ease diplomatic mobility and enhance bilateral cooperation. It was brought into force through the signing of an Exchange of Diplomatic Notes on Mutual Visa Exemption for Holders of Diplomatic Passports. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Director-General for Middle Eastern, Asian, and Pacific Countries Affairs at Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dewano Kedir, said the recent visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Ethiopia has elevated bilateral relations to a new level. He noted that efforts are underway to implement the commitments agreed upon by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Prime Minister Modi, with the visa exemption agreement being one of the key outcomes. Dewano described the implementation of the agreement as an important milestone that will further strengthen diplomatic ties, enhance mobility, and deepen cooperation between the two countries. He reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to fully implementing the visa exemption arrangement. Highlighting India’s importance to Ethiopia, Dewano emphasized that India is one of the world’s fastest-growing economies, noting that Ethiopia is also pursuing a similar growth trajectory, creating opportunities for closer partnership. On his part, Indian Ambassador to Ethiopia Anil Kumar Rai confirmed that the mutual visa exemption agreement is now being implemented. He described the development as a significant moment in Ethiopia–India relations, stressing that it will facilitate the movement of diplomatic passport holders, who play a key role as policymakers in both countries. Ambassador Rai added that during Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Ethiopia last month, several bilateral issues were discussed, including the visa exemption agreement, which both sides were keen to implement as swiftly as possible. The agreement is expected to further ease diplomatic travel, promote efficient interaction, and strengthen cooperation between Ethiopia and India, reflecting the growing strategic partnership between the two nations.

Addis Ababa, January 15, 2026 (ENA)—President Taye Atske Selassie received the credentials of 14 newly appointed ambassadors today. The ambassadors who presented their letters of credence to President Taye Atske Selassie represent South Sudan, Italy, Mauritius, Zambia, Germany, Jordan, New Zealand, Burkina Faso, Mozambique, Kenya, Belarus, the Philippines, Kyrgyzstan, and Latvia. According to Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Nebiat Getachew the ambassadors discussed with the President Ethiopia’s macroeconomic reform, which has been registering significant progress, and ways of further strengthening bilateral relations between their respective countries. During the discussion, the ambassadors have expressed their appreciation for the changes taking place in Ethiopia. Italy's Ambassador to Ethiopia, Sem Fabrizi, said Ethiopia and Italy share a long-standing historical relationship and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to further strengthening cooperation in areas of culture and economic partnership. Similarly, Ambassador Albert Muchanga of Zambia emphasized the importance of strong all-weather relations and reaffirmed his country’s commitment to expanding dynamic bilateral cooperation, particularly in areas of agriculture and mining. Kenyan Ambassador to Ethiopia, Galma Mukhe Boru, noted that the two countries will further strengthen their economic and trade relations in the future. Ambassador Baak Valentino of South Sudan stated that he discussed multilateral issues to further strengthen bilateral relations. The Ambassador of Philippines, Marie Charlotte, said the two countries will further strengthen their historical ties and expand trade cooperation. All the ambassadors have reaffirmed their commitment to working toward strengthening bilateral relations between Ethiopia and their respective countries, it was learned. In related news, the President also held discussions with European External Action Service Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Olof Skoog, on areas of cooperation between Ethiopia and the European Union. Recalled that Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos today received Olof Skoog, Deputy Secretary-General of the European External Action Service, who is in Ethiopia on an official working visit.

Addis Ababa, January 15, 2026 (ENA)—Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos said the European Union and its member states remain reliable partners of Ethiopia, describing the relationship as a critical partnership grounded in shared values and aspirations. The Minister received European External Action Service Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs, Olof Skoog, at his office today. Gedion highlighted Ethiopia’s efforts toward regional integration, noting alignment with the European Union’s Global Gateway initiative, and expressed the country’s commitment to advancing economic integration within the region. Referring to the ongoing macroeconomic reforms, he welcomed European companies taking advantage of Ethiopia’s favorable business climate and encouraged further investment. Deputy Secretary-General Skoog reaffirmed the strategic partnership between Ethiopia and the European Union, emphasizing EU’s support for Ethiopia’s economic reforms and congratulating the country on its upcoming role as host of COP32 in 2027. He also expressed the EU’s readiness to cooperate on ongoing and future initiatives. According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the discussion further covered regional peace and security, with both sides agreeing to continue working together on areas of common interest.

Addis Ababa, January 15, 2026 (ENA)—The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, on Wednesday received the AU-EAC-SADC Panel of Facilitators on the situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The Panel comprises Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of Nigeria; Catherine Samba-Panza, former President of the Central African Republic; Sahle-Work Zewde, former President of Ethiopia; and Mokgweetsi Masisi, former President of Botswana. Also present at the meeting was Elias Magosi, Executive Secretary of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). During the meeting, the AUC Chairperson commended the Facilitators for their leadership, wisdom, and sustained engagement in efforts to restore peace and stability in eastern DRC. He reaffirmed the African Union Commission’s full support for the Panel’s mandate and its role in advancing African-led solutions to conflicts on the continent. Speaking on behalf of the Panel, Olusegun Obasanjo expressed appreciation for the Chairperson’s leadership and unwavering commitment to African-owned and African-led peace initiatives. Both leaders underscored the importance of coherence and alignment among all peace efforts, including the Washington and Doha initiatives, in support of the AU-led process. The Panel of Facilitators will continue to work closely with Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé, President of the Republic of Togo and AU-designated Mediator, to engage all relevant stakeholders toward a durable, inclusive, and sustainable resolution to the crisis in eastern DRC.

Addis Ababa, January 14, 2026 (ENA)— Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timothewos met with South Sudan President Salva Kiir Mayardit today in Juba to bolster the longstanding bilateral relations between the two countries. During the occasion, Gedion delivered a special message from Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to the President.     The two sides discussed various bilateral and regional matters, expressing a mutual commitment to deepening the historic ties between their nations. They emphasized the need to prioritize economic cooperation, specifically in trade, investment, and infrastructure connectivity, including road and power networks to better serve the citizens of both countries.

Addis Ababa, January 14, 2026 (ENA)— President Taye Atske Selassie has bid farewell to the outgoing Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Ethiopia, Theshantha Kumarasiri following the completion of his diplomatic tenure. During the farewell ceremony, Ambassador Kumarasiri stated that Sri Lanka and Ethiopia have strong ties. He noted that modern diplomatic relations between the two countries were formally established in 1972 and have since continued to grow in the political, economic, cultural, and people-to-people spheres. He further highlighted that cooperation between the two nations has expanded in key sectors such as energy, agriculture, and tourism.     The ambassador also mentioned that nearly 200 Sri Lankan nationals are currently working in Ethiopia across various sectors. He emphasized that Sri Lanka views Ethiopia as a strategic gateway for strengthening relations with African countries. He noted that Ethiopia and Sri Lanka have many opportunities to further strengthen their relations. In this regard, he stated that discussions are underway for Ethiopian Airlines to begin direct flights to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital. Such a move, he explained, would create significant opportunities to deepen bilateral ties and expand trade, air cargo services, tourism, and cooperation in sectors such as energy. Additionally, he mentioned ongoing collaboration with relevant institutions in the areas of agriculture, gemstones, and the jewelry industry. Furthermore, he added that Sri Lanka is working jointly with Ethiopia’s gemstone and jewelry industry to establish a center of excellence for gemstone cutting and polishing in Ethiopia. He stated that Sri Lanka is preparing to purchase around 6,000 tilapia fingerlings from Ethiopia in collaboration with Ethiopia’s Ministry of Agriculture to realize this initiative. He emphasized that these are practical, ongoing initiatives currently being implemented to strengthen cooperation between the two countries.

Addis Ababa, January 14, 2026 (ENA)— A high-level Ethiopian delegation, led by Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos, engaged in a series of constructive bilateral discussions with Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of South Sudan, Ambassador Monday Kamba. According to the social media post by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, during their deliberations, the two officials engaged in a comprehensive exchange of views regarding regional stability and bilateral matters of mutual concern.     The Ministers reaffirmed the deep-rooted, historical ties that bind the two brotherly nations, characterizing the relationship as excellent and foundational. A significant portion of the dialogue focused on the strategic necessity of deepening economic integration, it was learned. Specifically, both parties emphasized accelerating cooperation in trade, investment, and cross-border infrastructure projects, including the development of interconnected road networks and energy grids. Furthermore, the Ministers pledged to expand collaborative efforts in human capital development, focusing on enhanced educational exchanges and institutional capacity-building initiatives.

Addis Ababa, January 14, 2026 (ENA)— The 39th African Union (AU) has set a comprehensive agenda for its upcoming high-level summits in January and February 2026, placing the resolution of persistent security crises and the strategic management of water resources at the forefront of continental priorities. The 39th African Union (AU) has outlined a comprehensive agenda for its high-level summits scheduled for January and February 2026, elevating the resolution of protracted security crises and the strategic management of water resources to the top of the continent’s priorities. The 51st Ordinary Session of the Permanent Representatives Committee (PRC), which convened this week, is preparing the groundwork for the 48th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council and the 39th AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government. The summits will center on the 2026 Theme of the Year: “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063,” reflecting a vital commitment to life, development, and climate resilience. Central to the deliberations are the escalating security challenges in the Sahel, the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Sudan, and Libya. African leaders are also anticipated to address the troubling resurgence of unconstitutional changes of government and the widening threat of terrorism across several regions. These sessions aim to strengthen the African Peace and Security Architecture (APSA) and enhance the Union's capacity for swift conflict prevention and resolution. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Miguel César Domingos Bembe, Angola’s Permanent Representative to the AU, emphasized the need for a radical shift in how the continent handles internal strife. Water is life, and without it, no development is possible, he said. However, peace remains the indispensable foundation for all our ambitions, Miguel César Domingos stated. He informed the committee that Angola is formally proposing an Extraordinary Summit on Conflict in Africa to specifically address the reform of the continent’s peace and security mechanisms. The Ambassador highlighted the necessity of reviewing the AU’s response capacity to better counter the activities of armed groups and terrorist organizations such as Al-Shabaab and Boko Haram. He also noted that the upcoming sessions would oversee the election of new members to the Peace and Security Council (PSC), ensuring a renewed and robust mandate for the 15-member body to tackle the continent's most pressing vulnerabilities. Furthering its commitment to regional stability, Angola announced it will host the biennial "Luanda Biennale" for the Culture of Peace in October 2026, aimed at fostering harmony through cultural and diplomatic engagement.

Addis Ababa, January 13, 2026 (ENA)—The government has made the necessary preparations for the conduct of a fair, democratic and peaceful 7th General Election manner, House of People's Representatives (HPR) Speaker, Tagesse Chafo, said. A joint consultative meeting of federal and regional legislators is underway in Bishoftu.     Objectives of the consultative meeting include building common understanding, social justice, lasting peace and good governance as well as the protection of democratic and human rights through sustained implementation of policies laws and strategies, the Speaker stated. He further emphasized the vital role of the consultative forum for the legislators in fostering a robust political and economic society, which is essential for sustainable peace and development. During this year’s consultation forum, a wide array of pressing national issues will be discussed by the federal and state legislators, it was learned. Among the issues discussed include preparations for the 7th General Election, functions of local councils, public budget and finance analysis, and audit. The Speaker highlighted that the government has been actively discussing resource allocations that enable the conduct of the upcoming general election. According to him, the government has made the necessary preparations that ensure a peaceful and fair election. Tagesse stressed that the House of People’s Representatives and Regional State Councils have to effectively coordinate their efforts to carry out an election better that the last 6th General Election. The Speaker noted the importance of capacity building to achieve a successful election, underscoring the significance of the national legislators consultative forum. The House has carried out many reforms aimed at enhancing public representation through effective oversight and monitoring, he added. In this regard, the establishment of a legal center by the HPR has created a system, which ensures that new laws are in alignment with the Constitution, international and national laws, while also facilitating the monitoring of their implementation. Tagesse pointed out that the joint consultative forum of the legislators would create an environment that helps to build a common narrative and to create transparency.

Addis Ababa, January 13, 2026 (ENA)—State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Hadera Abera, held talks with Gideon Sa’ar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Israel, focusing on strengthening the longstanding bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Israel. The discussions took place ahead of the 4th Ethio–Israel Political Consultation, scheduled to be held in Jerusalem, and covered regional and multilateral issues of mutual interest, according to a statement shared on the ministry’s social media platform. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further deepening cooperation, particularly in the economic sphere, and underscored the importance of expanding collaboration in areas of shared priority.

Addis Ababa, January 12, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia and Japan have agreed to strengthen their strategic economic partnership with the aim of expanding investment flows and enhancing bilateral trade relations, following high level discussions held in Addis Ababa. The understanding was reached during a business meeting between Ethiopia’s Minister of Finance Ahmed Shide, and a joint public private mission from Japan led by State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Kunimitsu Ayano. The engagement brought together senior government officials and private sector leaders from both countries. The Japanese mission, the third of its kind since 2008, included representatives from around 40 Japanese companies and a total of 48 participants from public and private institutions. Officials said the size and composition of the delegation reflected growing Japanese interest in Ethiopia’s investment and trade potential. During the meeting, Minister Ahmed Shide outlined Ethiopia’s ongoing reforms under the “Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda,” noting that the program is designed to promote private sector led growth and economic diversification. He said current reform priorities focus on manufacturing and industrialization, energy development, agro processing, logistics, and the digital economy, alongside sector liberalization in telecommunications, technology, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals. The minister stated that the government is working closely with relevant institutions to improve investment incentives, strengthen tax administration, ensure capital repatriation, expand public private partnership access to industrial parks, and implement robust PPP frameworks. According to the ministry, these measures are intended to build a transparent and investor friendly environment for foreign companies operating in Ethiopia. Members of the Japanese delegation raised operational concerns related to customs clearance delays, taxation clarity, and access to foreign currency. In response, Minister Ahmed Shide pledged to address the challenges and announced the establishment of a dedicated “Japan Desk” within the Ethiopian Investment Commission to support smoother market entry and business operations for Japanese firms. Ethiopia also invited Japanese companies to explore opportunities in emerging and strategic sectors, including venture capital for mobility startups, space technology, digital innovation, industrial development, energy, agro processing, and logistics. Japanese participants expressed particular interest in infrastructure and transport projects, including potential investment linked to the Bishoftu International Airport. The mission concluded with bilateral discussions aimed at deepening economic cooperation and sector specific collaboration, held in the presence of State Minister Semereta Sewasew, Japan’s Ambassador to Ethiopia Shibata Hironori, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Japan Daba Debele, and senior officials from the Ministries of Finance and Foreign Affairs.

Addis Ababa, January 12, 2026 (ENA)— Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited the Immigration and Citizenship Services to review improvements implemented in service delivery and the institution’s facilities.     Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed visited the Immigration and Citizenship Services today to observe the progress of comprehensive reforms aimed at modernizing service delivery and upgrading institutional facilities.     The Immigration and Citizenship Service (ICS) has been undertaking a series of transformative enhancements designed to streamline the experience for both citizens and international travelers.

Addis Ababa, January 12, 2026 (ENA)—African Union (AU) officials have underlined that unity and close collaboration among Member States are indispensable to confronting the continent’s mounting security, political and economic challenges. The 51st Ordinary Session of the AU Permanent Representatives Committee (PRC) opened today at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa.     Held under the theme “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation,” the session brings together ambassadors accredited to the African Union, senior officials of the African Union Commission and representatives of various AU organs to review pressing continental issues ahead of the next AU Summit.   Addressing the opening session, Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) Mohammed Ali Youssouf said the upcoming 39th Ordinary Summit of the African Union is scheduled to take place from February 14 to 16, 2025. He noted that the summit will focus heavily on peace and security challenges, particularly the situations in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan and Libya. “The Commission will endeavor to use all available means to find solutions,” Youssouf said. He added, “The Peace and Security Council will act promptly and dynamically to address the various crises facing our nations.” The Chairperson further stressed that the current international environment has become increasingly complex, making solidarity among African countries more critical than ever. He urged Member States to adjust to present realities and strengthen reliance on domestic resources while safeguarding collective interests. Chairperson of the PRC to the African Union, Ambassador Professor Miguel Cesar Domingos Bembe, echoed these concerns, pointing to persistent and unresolved conflicts across the continent. “Unresolved conflicts continue to plague regions such as eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, Libya and the Sahel,” Bembe said.       He also noted that Madagascar has recently experienced an unconstitutional change in government, while Benin narrowly avoided a similar crisis. Bembe emphasized the Commission’s determination to address peace and security challenges using all available mechanisms, including the work of Commissioners, Special Envoys and the Panel of the Wise. “The Peace and Security Council is acting with necessary speed and dynamism to respond promptly to various crises,” he stated. He further highlighted ongoing institutional reforms, particularly within the peace and security architecture, aimed at strengthening stability and resilience across the continent. Referring to the broader global context, Bembe said declining financial resources, rising tariff barriers and restrictive visa regimes are increasingly affecting African countries and limiting the free movement of people. He called on Member States to remain adaptable, promote self-reliance and sustain strategic partnerships, even as global trends shift toward protectionism and unilateralism. Delegates are expected to review the agenda over the next fifteen days, with the African Union Commission providing technical and administrative support throughout the process.

Addis Ababa, January 12, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia is advancing the Medemer State philosophy to establish a shared grand national narrative aimed at uniting its citizens and guiding the country toward prosperity rooted in a shared identity. Tesfaye Beljige, Government Chief Whip at the House of Peoples' Representatives, underscored the nation’s commitment to fostering unity and shared national perspectives during a conference held in Jimma focused on shaping common national viewpoints. Presenting a keynote paper titled “National Identity, Collective Memories, and State Legitimacy Ethiopia's Experience and Current Directions,” Tesfaye outlined the strategic pillars the government has adopted to secure enduring stability. In his address, Tesfaye reflected on the profound history of Ethiopia as an ancient cradle of civilization with a sophisticated heritage of statecraft. He highlighted the pivotal international role the nation has played as a founding member of both the League of Nations and the African Union. While celebrating the 1896 Victory of Adwa as a global symbol of liberty and praising the country's rich tapestry of language and culture, he noted that the legitimacy of the state has faced persistent historical challenges. He explained that the collective identity of Ethiopians was forged over centuries through the natural interactions of trade, faith, migration, and shared resilience in the face of natural disasters. The Chief Whip emphasized that the task of building a stable and universally accepted nation-state remains a work in progress, requiring the active participation of every citizen. He identified several critical bottlenecks that have historically hindered progress, including a regressive political culture, distorted historical narratives, and the failure to effectively leverage national resources. To tackle long-standing challenges, the Ethiopian government is pursuing a clear roadmap grounded in the Medemer philosophy, championed by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed as a unified framework for nation-state building. Tesfaye outlined several key initiatives underway to deliver sustainable solutions, including building national consensus, crafting a unifying narrative, and advancing a consensus-based democratic transition. These efforts are aimed at ensuring economic sovereignty and holistic national prosperity, he revealed. The conference was attended by high-ranking officials including Abraham Belay, Minister of Irrigation and Lowlands, and Saada Abdurahman, Speaker of the Caffee Oromia, alongside various federal and regional leaders.

Addis Ababa, January 12, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia and Japan reaffirmed their strong bilateral relations and pledged to deepen economic cooperation during a meeting between Ethiopian and Japanese officials today. Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timothewos received a delegation led by Kunimitsu Ayano, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, at his office. Speaking at the meeting, FM Gedion highlighted the historic ties between the two countries, noting robust cooperation at both bilateral and multilateral levels, and expressed Ethiopia’s appreciation for Japan’s long-standing development assistance. FM Gedion also emphasized that relations have continued to grow, particularly in trade and investment, and stressed the importance of expanding economic collaboration. State Minister Kunimitsu Ayano underscored the significance of sustaining and deepening Ethiopia–Japan partnerships in these areas. During the visit, FM Gedion briefed a delegation of 48 business representatives from over 35 Japanese companies, presenting Ethiopia’s investment-friendly environment and the benefits of ongoing macroeconomic reforms. State Minister Ayano welcomed the briefing and confirmed the delegation’s participation in the Ethiopia–Japan Business Forum scheduled for tomorrow, a key platform expected to further strengthen economic ties.