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 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.

Addis Ababa, January 8, 2026 (ENA)— China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi has reaffirmed his country's unwavering commitment to Africa, emphasizing the continent’s strategic importance in the foreign policy architecture of China. Speaking at the opening of a high-level strategic dialogue at the African Union (AU) Headquarters in Addis Ababa today, the Foreign Minister underscored the enduring strength of the partnership between China and the AU. FM Wang Yi and AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf discussed about ways of charting a course for enhanced bilateral cooperation. The Foreign Minister said that he looks forward to working with Chairperson Youssouf to utilize the strategic dialogue as a catalyst for realizing the shared vision of our leaders. "By mapping out our future cooperation, we will cultivate a more robust and sound relationship that elevates China-Africa ties to new heights,’’ he stressed. Highlighting President Xi Jinping's congratulatory messages to the AU Summit for 13 consecutive years, Wang Yi emphasized that the messages demonstrate the high importance China attaches to strengthening its partnership with the AU. Moreover, the FM expressed China’s readiness to work closely with AU leadership through the strategic dialogue to implement the shared understandings reached by the leaders and to map out future cooperation for a stronger and more resilient China–Africa relationship. He recalled that this year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of China–Africa diplomatic relations, underscoring the depth and longevity of the partnership. In addition, Wang Yi pointed out that this is the 36th consecutive year in which China’s foreign minister has chosen Africa as the first overseas destination, calling it a long-standing diplomatic tradition that reflects the enduring China–Africa friendship. “Our friendship was forged through side-by-side struggles for independence and liberation, and it has grown stronger as we pursue national development and economic progress.” The Foreign Minister further stressed the stability of China’s Africa policy, stating that China’s consistent domestic and foreign policies have contributed much-needed certainty to a changing global landscape. Regardless of global or regional shifts, China will continue to stand firmly with Africa, he underscored. “When Africa needs help, China will be among the first to extend a helping hand, and when Africa seeks a cooperation partner, China will be the first to stand by its side,” the FM noted. Wang Yi also emphasized solidarity among developing countries, noting that China and Africa, as members of the Global South, share similar histories and common development aspirations. According to him, with a combined population of 2.8 billion people, cooperation between China and Africa has the potential to overcome any challenge. “By working side by side and strengthening unity, China and Africa can advance modernization together and contribute to building a fairer, more just, harmonious, and stable world,” the FM concluded.

Addis Ababa, January 8, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia and China have agreed to further strengthen strategic coordination across bilateral, regional, and multilateral cooperation platforms, following high-level talks held today in Addis Ababa. Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timothewos met with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, Wang Yi, at his office, where the two sides reviewed the state of Ethio–China relations and explored avenues for enhanced cooperation. FM Gedion underscored that Ethiopia attaches great importance to its robust, all-weather strategic partnership with China, noting that the relationship is anchored in a long-standing history of friendship, solidarity, and mutual respect. The minister expressed Ethiopia’s appreciation for China’s continued support to its development efforts and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to further strengthening economic cooperation between the two nations. He also took note of China’s proposed Outlook on Peace and Development in the Horn of Africa initiative, highlighting its relevance in addressing regional security, development, and governance challenges. Minister Gedion further reiterated Ethiopia’s commitment to advancing the Ethio–China partnership through key multilateral frameworks, including the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), BRICS-plus, and the United Nations. For his part, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said his visit to Africa marks his first overseas trip in 2026, with Ethiopia as his first destination, reflecting China’s enduring solidarity with Africa and its role as a reliable strategic partner to Ethiopia. He reaffirmed China’s steadfast commitment to strengthening its comprehensive partnership with Ethiopia across multiple areas of cooperation. The two ministers agreed to deepen strategic coordination to advance shared interests at bilateral, regional, and multilateral levels.

Addis Ababa, January 8, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has underscored the depth and resilience of Ethiopia–China relations, stating that the long-standing partnership between the two countries has entered a new phase following its elevation to an all-weather strategic cooperation partnership. Ethiopia and China have enjoyed strong diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people ties for decades, a relationship that continues to expand in scope and significance, he said. In a social media post, the Prime Minister revealed that he welcomed China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi, for high-level discussions aimed at further strengthening bilateral cooperation. “Ethiopia and China have enjoyed a strong relationship for decades, further strengthened recently by its elevation to an all-weather strategic cooperation partnership,” Prime Minister Abiy noted. “I welcomed the Minister of Foreign Affairs of China, Wang Yi, and reflected on the enduring partnership between the peoples and governments of Ethiopia and China.” During the discussions, the two sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to advancing development and mutual prosperity. Talks covered a wide range of cooperation areas, including the economy, trade, infrastructure development, energy, and transportation. “We discussed a range of development cooperation issues and reiterated our shared commitment to advancing development,” the Prime Minister underscored. He further noted that both sides explored opportunities to deepen collaboration in emerging and future-oriented sectors, including e-commerce, the digital economy, artificial intelligence, and green energy. 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. Moreover, the high-level meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and exchanging views on regional and international issues of shared concern. The visit reflects the continued partnership between Ethiopia and China and their mutual commitment to deepening diplomatic relations.

Addis Ababa, January 8, 2026 (ENA)—Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today welcomed China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi, at the National Palace as part of his official’s two-day visit to Ethiopia. The high-level meeting focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and exchanging views on regional and international issues of shared concern, according to Office of the Prime Minister. The visit reflects the continued partnership between Ethiopia and China and their commitment to deepening diplomatic relations.

Addis Ababa, January 8, 2026 (ENA)—U.S. President Donald Trump on Wednesday signed a proclamation withdrawing the United States from 35 non-United Nations organizations and 31 U.N. entities that “operate contrary to U.S. national interests,” the White House said in a statement. The sweeping changes will see the US quit major forums for cooperation on climate change, peace and democracy. The White House did not list the organizations but said they promote “radical climate policies, global governance, and ideological programs that conflict with U.S. sovereignty and economic strength.” It said the move was the result of a review of all international intergovernmental organizations, conventions and treaties that the U.S. is a member of or party to. “These withdrawals will end American taxpayer funding and involvement in entities that advance globalist agendas over U.S. priorities, or that address important issues inefficiently or ineffectively such that U.S. taxpayer dollars are best allocated in other ways to support the relevant missions,” the White House said. The White House did not immediately respond when asked for further details and a list of the organizations. Since beginning his second term a year ago, Trump has sought to slash U.S. funding for the U.N., stopped U.S. engagement with the U.N. Human Rights Council, extended a halt to funding for the Palestinian relief agency UNRWA and quit the U.N. cultural agency UNESCO. He has also announced plans to quit the Wordl Health Organization and the Paris clime agreement.

Addis Ababa, January 6, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates strengthened their long-standing partnership during high-level talks held today, coinciding with the working visit of Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of State. The discussions highlighted the depth of mutual respect and cooperation between the two nations, with both sides emphasizing their commitment to defending each other’s peace, security, territorial integrity, and economic interests. According to the joint Ministerial Statement shared on Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ social media page, the talks focused on advancing regional stability and addressing urgent humanitarian needs. The two countries reviewed developments in regional peace and security and reiterated their commitment to promoting stability and lasting peace. Both UAE and Ethiopia recalled the High-Level Humanitarian Conference for the People of Sudan, co-hosted with IGAD and the African Union in February 2025, which rallied support for Sudan’s humanitarian needs. Ethiopia an UAE condemned attacks on civilians in Sudan and called on warring parties to ensure the protection of civilians and humanitarian personnel. They stressed that the primary responsibility for ending the conflict rests with the conflicting parties and reaffirmed the need for a humanitarian truce leading to a permanent ceasefire, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access, and an inclusive transition toward an independent civilian-led government. Global priorities were also discussed. The UAE welcomed Ethiopia’s preparations for COP32 and expressed readiness to collaborate to build on the successes of COP28 and the UAE Consensus, a historic agreement among 198 Parties. Both nations aim to deliver an ambitious climate agenda at the upcoming conference. The talks also highlighted the upcoming 2026 UN Water Conference, co-hosted by the UAE and Senegal, which will take place in the UAE later this year. Both sides emphasized the importance of sustainable water solutions and innovation, noting opportunities for cooperation in advancing clean water and sanitation as part of SDG6. Ethiopia and UAE concluded the meeting reaffirming their shared commitment to regional peace, humanitarian protection, and the continued strengthening of their strategic partnership.

Addis Ababa, January 6, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos today, met with Sheikh Shakhbout bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates. The discussions focused on deepening the longstanding strategic partnership between Ethiopia and the UAE, with both leaders expressing a shared commitment to closer collaboration on bilateral and multilateral fronts. The two ministers also exchanged perspectives on regional peace and security issues, highlighting areas of mutual interest and cooperation.

Addis Ababa, January 5, 2026 (ENA)— The Council of Ministers has passed decisions on issues ranging from mining to housing, finance, and national security with the view to bolstering the nation’s economy. In its 5th regular session held today, the Council first reviewed draft agreements for fertilizer and potash mining production licenses. Recognizing these projects as pivotal for enhancing foreign exchange earnings and generating employment as well as substituting costly fertilizer imports, the Council has unanimously authorized the Ministry of Mines to sign and execute the agreements. The agreements are also designed to ensure the timely distribution of fertilizer to farmers while adhering to stringent environmental and community benefit standards. Moreover, the Council approved the draft Housing Policy tabled to address the persistent disparity between housing supply and demand for immediate implementation. The new framework seeks to ensure sustainable, affordable, and accessible housing for all citizens in both urban and rural settings. The Council also evaluated a 30,000,000-USD-loan agreement secured from the Korea Export-Import Bank for the second phase of the Medical Equipment Supply Project. This highly concessional loan, featuring a 0.01 percent interest rate and a 40-year repayment period, including a 15-year grace period, aims to modernize the medical infrastructure. The Council referred the agreement to the House of People's Representatives for ratification. In addition, a draft regulation that determines service fees for the Immigration and Citizenship Service was approved to ensure reliable and quality services. Furthermore, the Council discussed the amended Cooperative Societies Proclamation to align the sector with recent national reforms. The revised proclamation was referred to the House of People's Representatives. Moreover, the Council deliberated on the revised Aviation Security Proclamation to mitigate emerging threats and enhance the reliability of air transport. The revised proclamation was referred to the House of People's Representatives. Additionally, two regulations were passed regarding efficiency. The first establishes the Mesob Service, a "one-stop-shop" service delivery model designed to reduce bureaucracy and enhance citizen satisfaction. The second defines the organizational structure and powers of the Ethiopian Competency and Management Institute to enable it to fulfill its statutory mandates effectively. The Council further approved a regulation governing the Universal Access Fund, established under the Communications Service Proclamation. This regulation defines the revenue sources and administrative protocols for the fund. It also adopted a revised National Sport Policy designed to address gaps in community participation, anti-doping measures, and the integration of technology in sports management. To provide a robust legal framework for this sector, the Council also approved the Federal Sport Development and Administration Proclamation, referring it to the House of People's Representatives.

January 5, 2026 (ENA)—The National Election Board of Ethiopia (NEBE) has launched new digital platforms aimed at modernizing voter and candidate registration for the 2026 General Election. The system, which includes mobile and web-based applications, was officially introduced during a launch event in Addis Ababa. Specifically, the launch of the comprehensive digital app ‘Mirchaye’ reflects NEBE’s wider initiative to modernize Ethiopia’s electoral system through technology. The app marks a major milestone in Ethiopia’s electoral history, as it is the first time the country is fully integrating digital technology into the election process. The platform enables services ranging from voter and candidate registration to election and management, it was indicated. Speaking at the event, Federal Supreme Court President Tewodros Mihret emphasized that the use of technology in elections is crucial for enhancing transparency and public trust. He noted that technology-assisted electoral systems have been successfully implemented in many countries and can help ensure a fair and credible election. While highlighting benefits such as reduced costs, time savings, and fewer bureaucratic obstacles, he also stressed the importance of public awareness to ensure effective use of the new system. Ethiopia’s 7th general election is scheduled for June 1, 2026, during which citizens will elect members of the House of People’s Representatives. NEBE has already begun preparations, including introducing digital registration systems and providing training for political parties to enhance voter engagement. On her part, NEBE Chairperson Melatwork Hailu stated that the digital registration system will improve efficiency, accuracy of data, and inclusivity, while also lowering operational expenses. She noted that the initiative focuses on improving institutional capacity, data accuracy, and compliance with international electoral standards. According to the Board, candidate registration will be conducted fully through the digital system, while voter registration will combine both technological and traditional methods. The applications are designed to allow voters and candidates to register remotely, regardless of their location.

January 5, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia and the Sultanate of Oman have taken a significant step to deepen their bilateral relations by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and holding their first-ever political consultation in Addis Ababa. The MoU was signed by Ethiopia’s State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hadera Abera, and Oman’s Undersecretary for Political Affairs, Sheikh Khalifa bin Ali Al Harthy, who is currently on an official working visit to Ethiopia. As part of the visit, Ethiopian Foreign Affairs Minister Gedion Timothewos held discussions with the Omani undersecretary, emphasizing the long-standing friendly relations between the two countries. He reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to strengthening cooperation and advancing shared interests with Oman. The political consultation focused on enhancing collaboration in political and socioeconomic areas. It reviewed bilateral relations and explored expanded cooperation in trade, investment, regional security, and multilateral affairs Both sides highlighted opportunities to expand investment, promote tourism, encourage people-to-people exchanges and increase official as well as business visits. In addition, the two countries exchanged views on regional peace and security issues, particularly developments affecting the Horn of Africa and the Gulf region. The discussions underscored the importance of continued dialogue and cooperation on matters of mutual concern. Ambassador Hadera underscored Ethiopia’s economic reforms and investment opportunities, encouraging Omani engagement in agriculture, energy, manufacturing, and agro-processing, as well as stronger trade promotion and private-sector collaboration. For his part, Sheikh Khalifa bin Ali Al Harthy expressed Oman's interest in expanding cooperation in banking and finance, pharmaceuticals, education, culture, legal migration, tourism, and heritage management. Both sides stressed the importance of regular consultations, regional cooperation frameworks, and visits to deepen ties. At the conclusion of the meeting, Ethiopia and Oman expressed their shared commitment to sustaining political consultations and boosting bilateral engagement across diplomatic, economic, and social sectors.