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.

Addis Ababa, January 11, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived in Djibouti this morning, where he was warmly received by President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh. The two leaders held high-level discussions on regional geopolitical developments, peace and security in the Horn of Africa, and ways to further strengthen bilateral relations. In a social media post, Prime Minister Abiy highlighted that particular emphasis was placed on enhancing cooperation in trade, logistics, and development. “Our discussions focused on geopolitical dynamics, regional peace and security, and strengthening bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade, logistics, and development—reaffirming our shared commitment to stability, economic integration, and mutual prosperity,” the Prime Minister noted.

Addis Ababa, January 10, 2026 (ENA)—The African Union (AU), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), and the Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) have deployed a joint election observation mission to Uganda ahead of the country’s General Elections scheduled for 15 January 2026. The mission has been deployed at the invitation of the Government of Uganda as well as the Electoral Commission of Uganda. It is led by former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, and supported by Ambassador Shemsudin Ahmed Roble of COMESA and Commander Abebe Muluneh Beyene representing IGAD. A total of 84 short-term observers drawn from 27 African countries have been deployed across all regions of Uganda, ENA learned. The observers include ambassadors accredited to the African Union, election management officials, civil society representatives, election and human rights experts, as well as gender, media, and youth specialists. The observers will monitor key election-day activities, including the opening of polling stations, voting, closing procedures, and vote counting processes. According to the mission, the assessment of the elections will be guided by Uganda’s legal framework and relevant regional and international instruments, including the OAU/AU Declaration on the Principles Governing Democratic Elections, the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG), and the International Declaration of Principles for International Election Observation. The AU–COMESA–IGAD mission will also engage with state authorities, political parties, the media, civil society organizations, and members of the international community based in Uganda.

Addis Ababa, January 9, 2026 (ENA)—Scholars have affirmed that securing sovereign access to the sea has become a defining responsibility for the present generation. Experts argue that the responsibility to reclaim sea access lost without legal or historical justification has fallen on the current generation. They contend that this imperative is driven by rapid population growth, economic expansion, and the need to safeguard national interests. They note that Ethiopia’s reduced influence in the Red Sea region stems from past policy failures and a historical absence of public representation in maritime affairs. This prolonged dependency, scholars say, has constrained economic growth and weakened national sovereignty. Against this backdrop, the reformist government has maintained that restoring sea access is not a political ambition but a legal, historical, geographical, and economic necessity. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Professor Adem Kamil said Ethiopia’s civilizational foundations have long been linked to the Abay River and the Red Sea. Ethiopia was cut off from its secured seaport, which was a cornerstone of its civilization, through conspiracies involving internal actors and historical external adversaries, he said. He added that the loss has imposed severe economic, social, and political costs over the past three decades. Securing a seaport that can serve Ethiopia’s large population and fast-growing economy is a crucial task and a responsibility of the current generation, the professor stressed. In this context, the government is achieving a diplomatic victory by asserting ownership of Ethiopia’s seaport to protect national geo-strategic interests. Temesgen Walelign, a Policy and Strategy Researcher at the Ministry of Logistics and Transport, on his part noted that the loss of Ethiopia's seaport has imposed significant strain on logistics operations. He pointed out that Ethiopia is losing its competitiveness in international trade due to substantial losses in both exports and imports, compounded by expenses related to port rental and transit. Temesgen emphasized that Ethiopia's pursuit of a seaport is a crucial diplomatic move that could permanently address the economic damage in the logistics sector.

Addis Ababa, January 9, 2026 (ENA)—The African Union and China have launched the 2026 China-Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges today at the AU Headquarters, marking a historic milestone in the 70-year diplomatic journey between the two sides. High-level dignitaries gathered at the Multi-purpose Hall to launch the program, which seeks to transcend traditional relations by fostering deeper intellectual, cultural, and social synergy among the 2.8 billion citizens of China and the African continent. The 2026 China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges program is expected to expand scholarship quotas, streamline cultural-exchange visas and pilot a "fast-track" business-travel corridor for African entrepreneurs attending trade fairs in China. In his opening address, President Taye Atske-Selassie shared a profound perspective on the cultural alignment between the two sides, noting that African human-centric world views like Ubuntu mirror the Confucian virtues of social harmony and empathy. The President stated that the next decade of cooperation must prioritize the transfer of high-end technology, particularly in Artificial Intelligence and bio-technology. Moreover, he pointed out that Africa must move away from being a mere exporter of raw materials, calling on Chinese partners to support the continent’s green, mineral strategy, and its path toward technological autonomy. Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, welcomed the Chinese delegation, noting that this partnership is a cornerstone for the success of Agenda 2063. Mahmoud highlighted the strategic depth of the relationship that spans infrastructure, energy, and the social sector. As the international community faces a decline in multilateralism, the solidarity between Africa and China serves as a vital safeguard for a balanced global order, he remarked. The Chairperson emphasized that the voices of nearly three billion people must weigh heavily in international decision-making, ensuring a future defined by mutual respect rather than hegemony. China's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi, described the initiative as a way to help China-Africa friendship grow deeper roots among the youth and grassroots communities. Wang Yi reflected on a history that stretches back two millennia to the ancient Silk Road, noting that modern struggles for independence have forged a bond as close as brotherhood. He proposed a future focused on "joint modernization," where China’s vast market becomes a catalyst for African industrialization through zero-tariff treatments and expanded vocational training via initiatives like the Luban workshops.

Addis Ababa, January 8, 2026 (ENA)—The African Union and China have agreed to explore the full potential for practical cooperation between China and the African Union, with a view to delivering tangible benefits to the peoples of Africa and China. In a joint press release they issued at the conclusion of the African Union–China Strategic Dialogue held today, both sides also reaffirmed their commitment to promote the effective implementation of all signed cooperation agreements and memoranda of understanding. Recalled that earlier in the day, Prime Minister Abiy also received Minister Wang Yi at the National Palace, where discussions were held on bilateral relations and regional matters of mutual interest. The visit underscores the growing strategic partnership between Ethiopia and China under the newly elevated all-weather cooperation framework. The high-level dialogue was led by Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, Wang Yi. The meeting served as a cornerstone for deepening the enduring partnership between the two entities, coinciding with the launch of the 2026 China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges, the release stated. Noting that China and the African Union, both sides agreed that members of the Global South share broad consensus on major international and regional issues; and underscored the importance of jointly safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of the Global South. They reaffirmed their commitment to supporting each other to safeguard their respective core interests and major concerns. In this regard, they emphasized the need to further strengthen coordination and cooperation in order to inject positive momentum into global and regional peace, stability, and development. The discussion also centered on harmonizing China’s 15th Five-Year Plan with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 Second Ten-Year Implementation Plan. Mahmoud and Wang explored practical avenues for cooperation, including economic integration, security and peace and global governance. Regarding economic Integration they discussed about leveraging zero-tariff treatments and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to spur growth. As the 2026 China–Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges commences, the two sides vowed to translate diplomatic agreements into practical outcomes. By exploring the full potential of their bilateral memoranda, the African Union and China aim to deliver transformative benefits to their citizens, ensuring that the fruits of this strategic alliance are felt across the continent and beyond.