Addis Ababa, July 18, 2025 (ENA) --- Ethiopia’s President Taye Atske Selassie signed a book of condolences honouring the former President of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari. The President noted that Buhari was a statesman whose leadership and service to Nigeria and his commitment to Africa will be remembered with highest reverence.   Nigeria’s former President died on Sunday in a London hospital at the age of 82. Buhari was buried in Daura, a town in the northern Katsina state.

Addis Ababa, July 17, 2025 (ENA)—The House of People's Representatives has approved today amended proclamations on income tax, and election, registration of political parties as well as code of conduct. The House approved the amended federal income tax proclamation it said has taken into account the economic situation of the country and broadens the tax base with a majority vote. In its second emergency meeting, a report and resolution on the amendment was presented by Desalegn Wedaje, HPR Standing Committee on Planning, Budget and Finance Chairperson. According to him, the Income Tax Proclamation that has been in use for a long time did not take the existing digital economy into account. The amendments to the proclamation will therefore create a modern tax system that is compatible with the digital economy and play a significant role in increasing the government's revenue collection capacity by broadening the tax base and reducing tax fraud, the Chairperson elaborated. Responding to questions raised by members of the HPR, Finance State Minister Eyob Tekalegn said the amended proclamation was prepared after more than two years of research and discussions with stakeholders at all levels. He noted that income tax that takes into account the changing economic situation is crucial for the country's planned economic growth; and for this reason, amending the proclamation is appropriate and necessary. The House finally approved the amended proclamation with five against and 12 abstention votes. In a related development, the House of People's Representatives has approved the amended Ethiopian Elections, Political Parties Registration and Electoral Code of Conduct Proclamation. The Proclamation amended 26 articles with the view to increasing the political participation of women and persons with disabilities. Submitting a report and resolution that amends the proclamation, Democratic Affairs Standing Committee Chair Ewinetu Alene stated that the proclamation has been improved in a way that allows for the seventh round of national elections to be held in a participatory, democratic, and transparent manner. Among the amended articles are the participation of women and persons with disabilities in the elections, the submission of complaints, the financing of political parties, and the use of technology. According to the Standing Committee Chairman, the amended proclamation will create a conducive environment for a better conduct of elections by expanding the political space. He also said it will enable transparent, efficient and cost-effective elections by facilitating the complex electoral process with the help of technology. Members of the House approved the amended proclamation with two votes against and four abstentions.

Addis Ababa, July 17, 2025 (ENA)—Eswatini announced that it will repatriate five migrants deported by the US, rejecting claims that their home countries refused to accept them. The Kingdom of Eswatini has announced it will repatriate five foreign nationals who were deported there by the United States, a day after the Trump administration claimed the migrants’ home countries had refused to take them back. The five deportees, from Vietnam, Jamaica, Laos, Yemen, and Cuba — were flown to Eswatini in what the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) described as the first “third-country” deportation since a recent Supreme Court ruling upheld the controversial practice. According to DHS, all five individuals had completed prison sentences in the United States for serious criminal offenses. The department said they were sent to Eswatini after their home governments allegedly declined to accept them. “The flight included individuals whose own countries refused to take them back,” wrote Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary at DHS, in a post on X (formerly Twitter) Tuesday night. However, Eswatini quickly rebuffed any implication that it would permanently host the deportees. In a firm statement released Wednesday, government spokeswoman Thabile Mdluli said the five men would not remain in Eswatini. “The governments of Eswatini and the United States, together with the International Organization for Migration, will facilitate the transit of these inmates to their countries of origin,” Mdluli said. The International Organization for Migration (IOM), however, contradicted Eswatini’s statement, clarifying that it had no role in the migrants’ removal from the United States and had not been asked to assist with their repatriation. The deportations come on the heels of a US Supreme Court ruling earlier this month that gave the Trump administration the green light to resume sending deportees to third countries — even those with no previous connection to the individuals being deported. Immigration advocates have slammed the move as an example of “outsourcing responsibility” under the Trump administration’s hardline immigration stance.

Addis Ababa, July 17, 2025 (ENA)—State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Hadera Abera held today discussions with the Ambassador of Japan to Ethiopia, Shibata Hironori. During the meeting, Ambassador Hadera underscored the longstanding and mutually beneficial partnership between Ethiopia and Japan, founded on shared interests and friendship. He acknowledged the enduring nature of the two countries’ diplomatic ties and cooperation across various sectors, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The state minister also encouraged greater involvement of Japanese companies in Ethiopia, in light of the favorable conditions created by ongoing macroeconomic reforms. He particularly emphasized the importance of boosting Japanese investment in manufacturing, trade, and other industrial sectors. Ambassador Shibata, for his part, acknowledged the strong and historic diplomatic ties between Japan and Ethiopia. He noted that, recognizing Ethiopia’s vast development potential, efforts are underway on the Japanese side to encourage more Japanese companies to engage in investment and business activities in the country. The Ambassador also affirmed that his side will continue to strengthen its development assistance to Ethiopia, particularly in support of the country’s broad-based reform efforts. The Ambassador extended an official message to the state minister, inviting Ethiopia to participate in the upcoming Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD).

Addis Ababa, July 16, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s religious leaders have emphasized the importance of fostering a dialogue-centered culture to resolve differences peacefully and steer the country away from conflict. Religious leaders, under the coordination of the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia Assembly, spoke to ENA about their recent call for peace made in Mekelle, in Tigray region of Ethiopia. Representing the religious leaders, President of the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council, Sheikh Haji Ibrahim Tufa, stated that during their visit, the delegation held discussions with the Chief Administrator of the Tigray Interim Administration, Lieutenant General Tadesse Werede, his leadership team, and various regional stakeholders. He also noted that the religious leaders urged all stakeholders to embrace peace. According to him, the religious leaders held discussions on various issues with stakeholders in Tigray region and they emphasized that all differences must be resolved through peaceful means. He also expressed optimism that stakeholders would make every effort to resolve all differences through peaceful and constructive engagement. Moreover, Haji Ibrahim emphasized that the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia Assembly will continue to enhance its constructive role on the matter and underscored the need to cultivate a culture of dialogue-based conflict resolution across the entire country. On his part, Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahdo Church General Manager, His Grace Abune Sawiros echoed the same sentiment, stressing that all differences must be addressed exclusively through peaceful means—fostering dialogue, mutual understanding, and roundtable discussions.

Addis Ababa, July 15, 2025 (ENA) --- The National Intelligence and Security Service has announced today the arrest of 82 ISIS (the extremist armed group) members recruited for terrorist missions in Ethiopia. According to a statement sent to ENA by the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS), investigations have been conducted regarding the efforts of the Somalia wing of ISIS operating in Puntland to expand and establish cells of the terrorist group in various countries and Ethiopia. NISS, which stated that it has been closely monitoring the attempts of the ISIS Somalia wing to establish a terrorist network in Ethiopia from the beginning, pointed out that its regular assessment of the threat level has identified concrete findings that pose vulnerability and could escalate into a national security threat. The 82 suspects trained in Puntland and deployed to different parts of the country were identified and arrested in cooperation with the Federal Police and regional security forces. Suspects who had direct ties to ISIS group and were providing comprehensive support, in particular individuals organized by the intelligence wing of the international terrorist group and providing financial and logistical support, are detained, the statement added. Further stating that the terrorist group uses religious institutions and religion as a cover to spread its destructive mission and recruit people, it noted that concrete evidences were found on its spreading teachings which erode the unity and values of peaceful coexistence among the people and incite violence and chaos. The suspects were arrested in Addis Ababa, around Sheger city in Oromia, Adama, Haromaya, Shashemene, Bale, Jimma and Shakiso cities in the Oromia region; in Silte Zone and Halaba Kulito city of the Central Ethiopia region; in Jigjiga city of the Somali region, and Harari region. The statement from the service stressed that the participation of the local community with security agencies in the operation to capture the individuals was exemplary. The National Intelligence and Security Service finally said surveillance of the terrorist group members who have not been arrested will continue, and called on the public to fulfill their civic duty by providing tips for the relevant security bodies when they see suspicious situations that could disrupt peace and create threats in their areas.

Addis Ababa, July 15, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopian State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Hadera Abera, conferred today with US Ambassador to Ethiopia, Irvin Jose Masinga. During the meeting, the two sides held extensive discussions on bilateral relations and regional issues of mutual concern, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ambassador Hadera emphasized the importance of continued engagement and collaboration at all levels to further strengthen the longstanding friendship between Ethiopia and the United States.

Addis Ababa, July 14, 2025 (ENA)—Emphasis has been placed on building the capacity of political party leaders in order to create a developed and stable multi-party political system in Ethiopia, Ethiopian Political Parties Joint Council Chairman Solomon Ayele said. The Ethiopian Political Parties Joint Council, the African Leadership Excellence Academy, and the Netherlands Multi-Party Democracy Institute have signed a tripartite agreement today. Speaking during the signing ceremony, the chairman stated that knowledge-based leadership is a prerequisite for building a democratic political system in Ethiopia. And to realize this, organizing training courses that build the capacity of political party leaders is crucial, he added. According to him, the Council is working collaboratively with various stakeholders including the African Leadership Excellence Academy; thus, the Council’s commitment to developing knowledge-based political leadership. Solomon affirmed that the Joint Council of Ethiopian Political Parties will work to the fullest extent to implement the agreement and build a developed and stable multi-party political system in Ethiopia. On his part, African Leadership Excellence Academy President Zadig Abraha said the academy focuses on building the capacity of political party leaders, as this is a key task in the process of establishing a developed democratic political system in Ethiopia. For this, the academy has produced training manuals, leadership development plans, and strategy documents for political parties developed by Ethiopian professionals based on indigenous knowledge, Zadig explained. Zadig further confirmed his readiness to work collaboratively in the process of building a strong multi-party-political system in Ethiopia. Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD) Country Director, Yinebeb Nigatu, stated that the institute is providing technical and financial support for the establishment of a strong multi-party-political system in Ethiopia. Pointing out that NIMD has been working with various stakeholders to build a democratic multi-party system, the country director added that the agreement signed will enable the institute to collaborate more closely with the African Leadership Excellence Academy.

Addis Ababa, July 14, 2025 (ENA)— Ethiopia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched a regional training program for young diplomats from six East African countries, a move designed to strengthen regional cooperation and further the Pan-African vision of unity and shared prosperity. Organized by Ethiopia’s Institute of Foreign Affairs, the program gathers emerging diplomats from Somalia, Kenya, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, and Uganda. The training aims to foster mutual understanding, enhance diplomatic skills, and equip participants to jointly address pressing regional challenges such as terrorism, forced migration, civil unrest, and illicit arms trafficking. In his opening remarks, Adam Tesfaye, Chief of Staff at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the need for collective action to address complex, transboundary issues. "Our region faces multifaceted challenges that no single country can tackle alone," he stated. "This program represents a vital step toward harnessing our collective wisdom and shared commitment to achieve our common goals." Adam also reaffirmed Ethiopia’s historic role in promoting regional dialogue and peace, underscoring that the country’s national development is deeply tied to the region's stability and prosperity. He underscored that Ethiopia’s ambition to become a model of prosperity by 2030 hinges on enhanced regional integration and cooperation. The training initiative itself aims to deepen ties among East African nations, create platforms for collaborative action, foster constructive engagement within the Horn of Africa, and support diplomats in advancing common regional interests globally. Describing Addis Ababa as the "diplomatic capital of Africa," Adam expressed confidence that the relationships and knowledge gained during the training will significantly contribute to long-term regional peace and development. Providing historical context, Professor Brook Hailu of Addis Ababa University delivered a keynote on the evolution of Pan-Africanism. He traced the movement from its early diasporic roots to the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) in Addis Ababa in 1963 and its successor, the African Union (AU), in 2002. Professor Brook characterized Pan-Africanism as a continuing struggle for the continent’s unity, sovereignty, and development. Drawing from his diplomatic experience, including his tenure as Deputy Ambassador to the United Nations, he urged participants to see themselves as bridge-builders, facilitating dialogue, promoting collaboration, and driving forward Africa’s shared vision of peace, prosperity, and global relevance. The training program was then officially declared open, marking a significant milestone in fostering regional diplomatic engagement and cooperation in East Africa.

Addis Ababa, July 14, 2025 (ENA)—Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas said Hamas cannot govern post-war Gaza and must surrender its weapons to the PA, according to a statement after his meeting with former UK prime minister Tony Blair in Amman on Sunday. Abbas urged an immediate cease-fire, release of all captives on both sides and full Israeli withdrawal so the PA can assume control of Gaza “with Arab and international backing.” He also called for a freeze on West Bank settlement expansion. Hamas rejected similar demands from Abbas in April. The two factions have been at odds since Hamas won the 2006 elections and seized Gaza from Fatah in 2007, despite intermittent reconciliation talks. On its part, U.S. says truce possible within days Speaking to reporters in Washington, U.S. President Donald Trump said indirect talks mediated by Qatar could yield a breakthrough “over the next week.” Envoy Steve Witkoff, attending the FIFA Club World Cup final in the United States, said he was “hopeful” after discussions with Qatari intermediaries. The draft deal envisages a 60-day truce, staged hostage releases and partial Israeli troop pullbacks, followed by negotiations on a permanent end to the 21-month war. Talks remain stuck over Israel’s refusal to commit to a complete withdrawal. A Channel 12 poll on Friday found 75 % of Israelis back a deal exchanging an end to the offensive for the release of all hostages.

Addis Ababa July 13, 2025 (ENA) -- On the margins of the 7th AU Mid-Year Coordination Meeting in Malabo, Africa Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, convened and addressed a high-level coordination meeting with the Heads of Regional Economic Communities (RECs), Regional Mechanisms (RMs) and AUDA-NEPAD. Co-chaired by IGAD, the current Chair of the Inter-RECs Coordination Committee, the meeting built on discussions held on 3 July and focused on enhancing synergy, coherence, and effective delivery across Africa’s integration, development, and financial institutions. Leaders exchanged updates, reaffirmed common priorities, and explored concrete ways to fast-track the implementation of Agenda 2063. The Chairperson underscored the AU’s commitment to unity of purpose, strengthened collaboration, and joint delivery to accelerate impact for the Africa We Want.   The Heads of RECs welcomed the positive momentum under the AUC’s new leadership and reaffirmed their steadfast support for stronger coordination in service of the continent’s aspirations. RECs are regional groupings of African states and are the pillars of the AU. They are primarily designed to promote regional economic integration among member states and to support the broader African Economic Community (AEC). This entails enhancing trade, aligning policies, and encouraging collaboration across various sectors such as agriculture, industry, transportation, energy, and monetary policy. Additionally, RECs are instrumental in coordinating the interests of African Union Member States in critical areas including peace, security, development, and governance.

Addis Ababa, July, 12, 2025 (ENA)— Ethiopian Defense University is developing the expertise needed to build a modern, technology-driven army, said Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed. The university today graduated students completing undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs in various fields, including engineering, health sciences, business, and resource management. Minister of Defense Aisha Mohammed, Minister of Irrigation and Lowland Areas Abraham Belay, and State Minister of Health and Deputy Chairperson of the University Board Dereje Duguma, senior defense officers and military attachés from various countries, and the graduates' families attended the graduation ceremony. Addressing the graduates, Minister Aisha stated that today’s graduates are a testament to Ethiopia’s legacy as a great nation with a longstanding tradition of heroes and heroines across generations. She added that the Defense University is producing able members of the military personnel and civil leaders, qualified in purpose, knowledge, and professional excellence. The university is working on advancing military technological capabilities, she noted, adding the institution is producing professionals who could leverage the efforts of building technology-assisted modern army in the country. The Minister further stated that the University has carried out various activities in research and community services. She underscored the university to strengthen its efforts for the nation and succeeding generation. The minister implored the graduates to serve their beloved nation with unwavering loyalty, integrity, and professionalism. Brigadier General Kebede Regasa, President of the Ethiopian Defense University, on his part, stated the institution's active involvement in developing military technologies while simultaneously building a capable and professional army. He added that the university is producing both military officers and civil leaders whose leadership enables the army to execute operations thereby leveraging the overall mission execution capability of the National Defense Forces. In the technology sphere, the university is undertaking several works as part of supporting the skilled manpower demand of the defense force, Brigadier General Kebede added. He added that various works are being carried out to substitute imported defense technologies with locally manufactured technologies.

Addis Ababa, July 11, 2025 (ENA)--- The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of South Sudan, Monday Semaya Kumba, has arrived in Addis Ababa this evening for a working visit. Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, the Minister was warmly received by Ambassador Zerihun Abebe, Director General for African Affairs. During the visit, the Minister is scheduled to meet with senior Ethiopian government officials to discuss ways to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.

Addi Ababa, July 10, 2025 (ENA) -- An Ethiopian delegation, led by State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Hadera Abera, is taking part in the 47th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU), which kicked off this morning in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea. The meeting is being held under the theme of the year: “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations”.   The Executive Council will deliberate on issues, including reform of the African Union, follow-up on the implementation of Agenda 2063, as well as election and appointment of members of AU organs, among others. The 47th Session of the Executive Council is also expected to deliberate on fast tracking of the integration process in Africa as well as exchange views on the reports of the AfCFTA and the 2025 AU theme of the Year implementation status.

Addi Ababa, July 10, 2025 (ENA) -- Ethiopia registered significant diplomatic achievements during the concluded 2017 Ethiopian fiscal year, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In a media briefing held today, Ambassador Nebiat Getachew, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, outlined the key diplomatic achievements recorded during the recently concluded 2017 Ethiopian Fiscal Year. Ambassador Nebiat stated that Ethiopia’s diplomatic efforts throughout the year were fruitful, reflecting the country’s growing influence in both regional and global affairs. He highlighted significant progress in multilateral engagement, peace diplomacy, economic partnerships, and citizen-centered diplomacy. Ethiopia undertook proactive diplomatic initiatives aimed at promoting its international image and safeguarding national interests across multiple sectors. A major focus was placed on strengthening mutually beneficial relations with neighboring countries, with particular emphasis on regional integration through energy and infrastructure connectivity. Ethiopia also played a constructive role in advancing peace and stability across the Horn of Africa. Several bilateral and multilateral agreements were signed during the year, which contributed to enhancing Ethiopia’s international visibility and protecting its national interests. In terms of people-to-people engagement, Ethiopia provided 968 free higher education opportunities to students from neighboring countries during the year, underscoring its commitment to regional development and solidarity. To enhance economic diplomacy and attract foreign capital, Ethiopia promoted its investment opportunities in 160 international forums. Ethiopia has also participated in 118 trade promotion events, which led to the creation of 151 new market linkages for Ethiopian export products. Ambassador Nebiat also highlighted the government’s strong focus on citizen-centered diplomacy. Over 131,000 Ethiopian nationals were repatriated from 21 countries after facing difficult circumstances abroad, demonstrating the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens. Looking ahead, preparations are underway for Ethiopia to host two major international events: the UN Food Systems Summit and the 2nd Africa Climate Summit, he added. The 2nd UN Food Systems Summit Stocktake (UNFSS+4) will take place from July 27–29, 2025, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, co-hosted by Ethiopia and Italy. The 2nd Africa Climate Summit (ACS2) is the other important gathering that will be held in Addis Ababa from September 8-10, 2025, with pre-summit events from September 5-7. This summit is co-hosted by Ethiopia and the African Union, with the theme "Accelerating Global Climate Solutions: Financing for Africa's Resilient and Green Development". These events are expected to further elevate Ethiopia’s role in global discussions and showcase the country's efforts in climate action, sustainable development, and international cooperation. Ambassador Nebiat emphasized that Ethiopia’s preparation for these summits is a reflection of its practical commitment to global challenges, particularly climate change, and its aspiration to contribute meaningfully to international solutions.

Addis Ababa, July 9, 2025 (ENA)— Zambian Ambassador to Ethiopia Rose Sakala said the long-standing, multifaceted relationship between the two countries has grown stronger across various sectors. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Ambassador Sakala highlighted the enduring and multifaceted ties between Ethiopia and Zambia, noting that the relationship been gaining momentum and continues to thrive across diverse sectors. Specifically, since Zambia established its embassy in Ethiopia, the partnership between the two countries has been flourishing, evolving from strength to strength and fostering various forms of cooperation, she remarked. She noted that in 2017, the two nations successfully established a joint permanent commission, which has since yielded practical benefits in several areas of mutual cooperation. According to the Ambassador, efforts have been made to bring together business professionals and other stakeholders from both sides to further enhance their ties, as both countries possess significant potential. She indicated that the joint permanent commission fortifies connections in trade and investment, particularly in the fields of agriculture and air transport. Acknowledging Zambia's significant historical contributions to African unity and pan-Africanism, the Ambassador highlighted that Zambia has been proactive in reinforcing its commitment to African causes. Consequently, Zambia has been actively involved in organizing and participating in various platforms aimed at promoting African unity and advancing continental agendas, she stated. In a similar vein, the Ambassador pointed out that Zambia has been supporting initiatives to uphold peace and security across the continent, both through troop contributions and by seeking to resolve crises through peaceful diplomatic means, asserting that "Dialogue is the way forward." She mentioned that Zambia, along with other African nations, is striving to reform the UN Security Council to secure permanent representation for Africa within the organization, as excluding Africa is a historical injustice. On the other hand, the Ambassador stated that Zambia has made substantial contributions to regional economic integration, with pan-Africanism serving as a fundamental principle and driving force behind these efforts. She emphasized that Zambia is an integral part of the 1,300-kilometer Lobito Corridor railway project, which is expected to enhance connectivity, trade, and transportation across three southern African countries. Regarding the African Union's blueprint, Agenda 2063, the Ambassador described it as a golden agenda that presents numerous opportunities for Africa, urging for its implementation through collaborative efforts. The Ambassador remarked: “If we bind together, we shall overcome, if we don't bind together the challenges will continue amongst ourselves.”

Addis Ababa, July 9, 2025 (ENA)— President Taye Atske Selassie has bid farewell today to the outgoing UN Assistant Secretary-General, Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ethiopia, Ramiz Alakbarov. During the meeting, the two sides exchanged views on strengthening the enduring partnership between Ethiopia and the United Nations. They discussed future avenues for cooperation and ways to deepen the collaborative efforts that have contributed to Ethiopia's development and humanitarian endeavors. President Taye expressed his sincere appreciation to Alakbarov for his instrumental role in enhancing UN-Ethiopia relations during his tenure. Taye also acknowledged the lasting contributions made by the UN official in advancing mutual goals and supporting Ethiopia’s national priorities. Approached by ENA, Alakbarov reflected on his time in Ethiopia, describing it as both meaningful and inspiring. He lauded Ethiopia’s remarkable progress in development, noting impactful transformations in both urban centers and rural communities. He said, “For the last two years that I have been in Ethiopia, I must admit I have seen an amazing transformation happening in this country. If you see Addis Ababa or regional cities, you could see strong changes in the way the cities operate. The city corridor development project has transformed the capital and regional cities. I was very impressed with one the largest and probably the largest environmental initiative called green legacy. I have never seen any other country where billions of trees are planted.” The outgoing assistant secretary-general reaffirmed that the collaborative partnership between Ethiopia and the United Nations will further be strengthened in the coming years. He further stated that: “I have been very much honored to be able to sign with Ethiopia our 5 years partnership plan. It happened a couple of weeks ago. This plan has envisaged partnerships towards the agenda 2030. By the year 2030, this 5 years plan will be over. It amounts to 6 billion dollars. We have five transformative areas where we are working through.”  

Addis Ababa, June 8, 2025 (ENA)—President Azali Assoumani of Comoros has recognized Ethiopia’s pivotal diplomatic legacy on the African continent and commended its ongoing strides in inclusive and sector-wide development. Over the weekend, Ethiopian President Taye Atske Selassie participated in the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of Comoros’ Independence Day. On the sidelines of the Independence Day celebrations, President Taye Atske Selassie and Comorian President Azali Assoumani held diplomatic talks aimed at strengthening bilateral relations. ​​​Specifically, President Taye briefed President Assoumani on Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to achieve food sovereignty, offering valuable lessons Comoros could draw upon, ENA learned from the Office of the President. Expressing his gratitude to the Government of Comoros for the invitation to attend the Independence Day celebrations, President Taye emphasized the vast potential for expanding diplomatic cooperation between the two countries. For President Taye, agriculture is the key sector for further cooperation between the countries as Ethiopia is setting an example in Africa in the spheres of summer irrigation and massive wheat productivity. On his part, President Azali Assoumani of Comoros affirmed that his talks with the Ethiopian president were productive, focusing on strengthening bilateral relations. Assoumani who was the former African Union (AU) Chairperson, highlighted Ethiopia's pivotal role as a central hub in the African continent. He also praised Ethiopia’s remarkable economic transformation, noting it as a source of inspiration for African nations striving for sustainable development. He also emphasized the strategic importance of Ethiopian Airlines—an emblem of the country's progress—in enhancing regional and global connectivity, particularly for Comoros.

Addis Ababa, July 8, 2025 (ENA) - The opening of Slovenia's embassy in Addis Ababa is a symbol of strategic commitment to deeper political and economic ties with Ethiopia and the African continent, Slovenian Ambassador to Ethiopia, Kristina Radej told ENA. In a move signaling deeper engagement between Europe and Africa, Slovenia has officially opened its embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in November 1 last year. Slovenia's embassy in the Ethiopian capital is its third diplomatic post in Africa with a resident ambassador. This milestone is expected to usher in a new era of diplomatic, economic, and developmental cooperation between the two nations. The inauguration of the Slovenian Embassy in Addis Ababa marks a significant step forward in bilateral relations between Slovenia and Ethiopia. Slovenian Ambassador to Ethiopia, Kristina Radej told Ethiopian News Agency (ENA) that the opening of the Slovenian embassy is a symbol of strategic commitment to deeper political and economic ties with Ethiopia and the African continent. On the economic front, Slovenia is eyeing several promising sectors for investment including agriculture, renewable energy, and technology. Slovenian businesses are already exploring opportunities, having exploratory visits. In addition to trade, Slovenia aims to share expertise in technology transfer and agricultural innovation. Slovenian Embassy already supporting an Urban Bee keeping pilot programs in Addis Ababa and other parts of the country that could directly benefit Ethiopian farmers and agribusinesses. Ambassador Kristina also noted that, as Slovenia strengthens its bilateral relations with Ethiopia, it also remains mindful of its broader commitments to the European Union and the United Nations. The embassy of Slovenia to Ethiopia will definitely serve as a vital hub to fostering multilateral diplomacy, regional peace, and sustainable development partnerships with Ethiopia and Africa. A growing friendship between Ethiopia and Slovenia, now cemented with a new diplomatic post, the ambassador said, noting that Slovenia brings with it valuable experience from its own history of regional integration and post-conflict recovery in Europe. The Ambassador believes that Slovenia can contribute meaningfully to Africa’s own peace and unity aspirations particularly when guided by African priorities and institutions.

Addis Ababa, June 7, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held strategic diplomatic engagements with leaders of several countries on the sidelines of the 17th BRICS Summit, according to Foreign Affairs Minister Gedion Timothewos. Attending the 17th BRICS Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Prime Minister Abiy engaged in high-level talks with the leaders of Brazil, China, South Africa as well as foreign ministers. The Prime Minister delivered a speech during the opening session on peace and security and global governance. The diplomatic engagements offered a valuable opportunity to deepen bilateral ties and to foster greater understanding and support for Ethiopia’s stance on key strategic issues, according to Minister Gedion. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held initial talks with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, focusing on ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Ethiopia and Brazil, the minister indicated. As a result, Gedion noted the discussion offered the President a valuable opportunity to gain deeper insight into Ethiopia’s current situation, policy direction, and the wider regional context. In a similar diplomatic engagement, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held discussions with Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang on enhancing Ethio-Chania bilateral relations. In particular, the two leaders explored ways to enhance China’s constructive role in Ethiopia’s economic development and acknowledged China’s significant contribution to securing debt relief for Ethiopia through the Paris Club framework. The two sides also exchanged views on expanding Ethiopia’s access to China’s market through duty-free export opportunities, a trade initiative China has recently extended to African countries like Ethiopia, Gedion indicated. Moreover, Prime Minister Abiy held consultations with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on a range of issues, it was indicated. The Foreign Minister highlighted President Ramaphosa’s pivotal role regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) during his tenure as Chairperson of the African Union, noting that their discussion covered the dam’s current status, progress toward completion, and related matters. Additionally, Gedion emphasized Ethiopia’s interest in drawing lessons, technologies, and investments from these partner countries, recognizing multiple sectors where Ethiopia can both benefit and contribute.