Addis Ababa, September 17, 2026 (ENA) —The Eritrean regime is seeking to internationalize the conflict in the region by using the TPLF and other armed groups, said Getachew Reda, Minister and Advisor to the Ethiopian Prime Minister on East African Affairs. Speaking to Pulse of Africa, Getachew, who was also the former President of the Tigray Interim Regional Administration said: “The effort to internationalize the conflict is being done by Eritrea….” According to the advisor, the regime in Asmara is also exerting a maximum efforts to widen the conflict by involving armed groups and encouraging the deployment of young people beyond Ethiopia’s borders. He said reports that some had been captured, killed or wounded were deeply concerning. Getachew further revealed that former adversaries had set aside their differences in pursuit of a common objective, warning that such alliances could ultimately deepen instability across the Horn of Africa. He described the alignment between the defunct Tigray People’s Liberation Front and Eritrea as a marriage of convenience between “strange bedfellows” who cannot agree on major issues, calling it a prescription for disaster. Getachew said “I don't lose sleep over that particular issue,” referring to the alliance. But he warned that an alliance of “strange bedfellows” whose members disagree on major issues could ultimately become a “prescription for disaster.” Politics is often called “the art of the possible.” Yet the latest alignment, Getachew Reda argued, shows that political interests can unite even former foes—proving, in this case, that politics can also be the art of the impossible. He noted that the TPLF had been given “marching orders” to provoke clashes with federal forces and link up with armed groups in Amhara region. Getachew further stated that the Eritrean government seeking to keep Ethiopia unstable by coordinating with different groups opposed to the federal government. He further alleged that Eritrea enjoys support from Egypt in these efforts. “President Isaias has support in this endeavor from the likes of Egypt. We know for a fact,” Getachew underscored. “The federal government has exercised maximum restraint so far, despite provocations here and there,” he said, adding that the government had largely pursued a containment strategy. He cautioned, however, that the situation could change if armed groups-initiated attacks, potentially turning a localized confrontation into a broader regional conflict. The advisor stressed the need for the international community to exert pressure on the Eritrean regime and other actors he described as spoilers of peace to prevent another devastating war in the region.

Addis Ababa, September 17, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia and Comoros enjoy strong diplomatic relations and wish to strengthen their cooperation in several areas, the Comoros’ ambassador to Ethiopia has said. The two countries have established cooperative relations that have gradually grown stronger. The Comoros opened its embassy in Ethiopia in 2011, and both sides are currently working to finalize an agreement on the establishment of a joint commission. In an exclusive interview, the Comoros’ Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the African Union, Mr. Youssouf Mondoha Assoumani, said the commission should help identify new areas of cooperation, particularly in trade, health, education, culture, tourism, and civil aviation. Economic cooperation is also a key priority. The air connectivity provided by Ethiopian Airlines facilitates trade between the two countries and helps increase travel by Comorian and Ethiopian citizens and business operators. The Comoros is preparing to celebrate the 10th anniversary of Ethiopian Airlines’ service to the country, and a delegation from the airline is expected to visit the Comoros for the occasion. The ambassador also highlighted the potential for expanding trade, noting that Comorian businesses could strengthen their ties with their Ethiopian counterparts, particularly through the chambers of commerce in both countries. Cooperation also extends to the security sector. A Comorian police delegation recently visited Ethiopia to learn about Ethiopia’s experience in security, the fight against organized crime, and drug trafficking. In civil aviation, cooperation on air traffic controller training is also under way with Ethiopian institutions. The training program, scheduled to last several years, aims to strengthen Comorian national capabilities in this sector. Ambassador Youssouf also emphasized the importance of the energy sector for Africa’s development, commending Ethiopia’s efforts to expand its energy capacity and its potential to help provide access to electricity in the region. He also commended Ethiopia’s national dialogue initiative, noting that peace and stability are essential conditions for the development of the African continent. Finally, the Comoros hopes to draw on Ethiopia’s expertise in tourism, the hospitality industry, and the organization of sporting events. In particular, the Comoros will host the upcoming Indian Ocean Islands Games, for which cooperation with Ethiopian partners is being considered. The ambassador reaffirmed the Comoros’ commitment to continuing to strengthen relations with Ethiopia, particularly through the future joint commission, which should help identify areas of mutual interest and bring new cooperation projects to fruition.

Addis Ababa, September 17, 2026 (ENA) —Ministers and senior government officials from IGAD Member States have endorsed the IGAD Regional Agrifood Systems Investment Plan (RASIP) 2026–2035 and the IGAD Regional Seed Policy Framework 2026. The decision marks a major step toward coordinated investment, policy harmonization, and the transformation of agrifood systems across the region. Speaking at the ministerial meeting in Addis Ababa on Thursday, IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu said the two frameworks would provide a foundation for aligning national priorities, mobilizing investment and strengthening cross border cooperation among member states. He said RASIP is intended to guide investment in resilient and sustainable food systems, promote regional agricultural trade and translate continental commitments into coordinated regional and national action. Workneh also emphasized the role of the IGAD Regional Seed Policy Framework 2026 in harmonizing seed systems and facilitating the cross-border movement of quality and climate resilient crop varieties. The framework seeks to reduce regulatory barriers, align seed standards and facilitate regional trade in certified seeds. It is also expected to expand farmers’ access to climate smart and high yielding varieties while ensuring that traded seeds comply with quality, safety and disease prevention requirements. The IGAD executive secretary said the endorsement of the two frameworks demonstrates regional solidarity and a shared commitment to move from policy dialogue toward implementation, coordinated investment and greater accountability. “Resilient seeds are one of the most effective tools to combat climate shocks and improve yields,” he said, stressing the importance of coordinated regional action to strengthen food security. Workneh said stronger agricultural systems could help IGAD member states reduce their reliance on recurrent emergency food responses by increasing agricultural production, improving rural livelihoods and expanding opportunities to participate in continental markets. He also used the meeting to highlight the humanitarian and security situation in the region, calling for an end to the conflict in Sudan and increased humanitarian assistance to populations affected by the war. Speaking on behalf of Ethiopia’s Ministry of Agriculture, Senior Advisor Getachew Deriba reaffirmed Ethiopia’s support for the regional agrifood transformation agenda. He described food security as a critical priority for the highly interconnected IGAD region and said Ethiopia was integrating regional objectives into its national agricultural development framework. The endorsement of RASIP 2026–2035 and the Regional Seed Policy Framework 2026 is expected to strengthen cooperation among IGAD Member States in investment planning, seed production, quality assurance, regulation and agricultural trade, while supporting efforts to build more productive and climate resilient food systems across the region.

Addis Ababa, September 17, 2026 (ENA) — The Egyptian political instrumentalization of the Nile and the portrayal of Nile Basin countries as a stereotype have fostered negative public perceptions in Egypt toward basin countries in general, and Ethiopia in particular, a senior researcher at the Center for Strategic Studies and Integration Initiative, Abdushakur Abdussamad, told ENA. “This portrayal, instrumentalization, intense media use, and heavy media campaigns are ultimately more harmful to the Egyptian public than they are effective,” Abdushakur said. He explained that the Egyptian public has been conditioned to believe that the Nile is Egypt’s sole source of water for meeting its needs. “This implies that any development project undertaken by another country on the Nile would come at the expense of the Egyptian people’s water share, deeply ingraining this concept in the Egyptian public’s psyche.” The senior researcher noted that this framing serves, to a large extent, a media purpose designed to distract from domestic social, political, and economic issues within Egypt. “In turn, this promotes a significantly biased and stereotypical image of other Nile Basin countries. As a result, generations raised on this narrative accept it as absolute fact, whereas the true reality that needs to be projected is that this water source is shared, not the exclusive property of Egypt,” he explained. Abdushakur said the issue was thus diverted from an integrative developmental project into a politically exploited initiative. The senior researcher pointed out that Egypt possesses numerous other water resources. It is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Red Sea to the east, and it also has groundwater reserves. “However, driven by a desire for a cost-free resource that requires no additional financial burden, our Egyptian brothers focus on the Nile and seek to retain a veto over its utilization.” Further elaborating on the Nile, the senior researcher said the Nile Basin Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA), also known as the Entebbe Agreement, has confirmed that everyone has the right to benefit from Nile waters. He noted that the legally binding international agreement now serves as the framework regulating relations among Nile Basin countries. “Consequently, Ethiopia has every right to benefit and has never needed permission, as has been reaffirmed over the past decades, to pursue its legitimate right to meet its development needs, particularly in the field of hydropower,” Abdushakur stressed. He said it should be clear that Ethiopia does not need to ask anyone’s permission, since hydropower is a renewable, safe and clean source of electricity. He added that the country is therefore “responsibly fulfilling its role without harming anyone — a principle Ethiopia emphasizes and which has been proven correct, as the Ethiopian position is sound and has caused no harm to any party.” He underscored that the current and former Ethiopian water ministers have stated that Ethiopia’s utilization of the Nile waters — and all its water resources in rivers that feed neighboring countries — is an inherent right. “Just imagine a country that supplies over 86 percent of the Blue Nile’s waters being barred from utilizing this vital resource. This is both an injustice and a significant bias.” The senior researcher said Ethiopia, from the very beginning, invited downstream and transit countries to negotiate regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), going even further by proposing a partnership in financing, construction and operation. “Unfortunately, this invitation was not received in a manner befitting partners of a shared destiny.” Abdushakur added that the issue was diverted from an integrative developmental project into a politically exploited initiative. “But political instrumentalization is short-lived, although the rift it creates in public sentiment can be difficult to overcome in the near term.”

Addis Ababa, September 17, 2026 (ENA) —TheEthiopia’s quest for sovereign access to the Red Sea has been witnessing growing consensus, Chief of Staff and Senior Researcher of the Horn of Africa at IFA, Gizachew Asrat, said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Gizachew said Ethiopia’s quest for sea access is gaining momentum as a great asset for the Red Sea region. He noted that “there is a great consensus on Ethiopia’s access to the sea or presence in the sea issues.” Today, Ethiopia’s access to the sea is increasingly viewed as a legitimate strategic right, driven by its growing population and economy, expanding import-export trade, and pressing national and regional security interests. The country’s geographical proximity to the Red Sea, together with its historical links to the region’s ports, has remained central to its argument for pursuing a sustainable maritime outlet.   Ethiopia historically administered the ports of Massawa and Assab and maintained naval capabilities before Eritrea’s separation. The Senior Researcher further stated that there is a common understanding that Ethiopia should be around the sea and should also play a great role in the sea in terms of economy and security. He emphasized the significance of advancing on trust-building and cooperation between neighboring countries, and the global community. The researcher, particularly stressed the need for understanding the real intent of Ethiopia's quest for access to the sea. “The geopolitical, geo-economic, technology and energy, and everything are interconnected and interlinked between the maritime, the sea and the land,” he said. Gizachew elaborated that the interconnected nature of regional challenges requires countries to focus on common threats and interests rather than treating maritime and land-based security as separate issues. In this regard, Ethiopia's return to reliable sea access is vital for peace, regional integration and collective security of the Horn of Africa and beyond, he asserted. “Engaging Ethiopia on the Red Sea platform is an asset for the region,” Gizachew said, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation and partnership. Maritime security should also be examined from wider geopolitical and geo-economic perspectives, particularly given the strategic importance of global waterways and the competition surrounding them. Gizachew further emphasized that Ethiopia is part of the global economic and security system and therefore needs to remain engaged in issues affecting the Red Sea and international maritime routes.   “We are part of the globe and we have to be engaged there and definitely Ethiopia should have to be around the sea or on the sea,” he said. He underscored the importance of working closely with regional states and institutions, noting that Ethiopia's return to the sea will be instrumental not only for its national interest but also crucial for ensuring regional stability. Having a huge population, a growing economy, and a strategic location, the return of Ethiopia’s access to the sea is a vital geopolitical imperative for securing maritime security in the Horn of Africa and the wider Red Sea corridor, the senior researcher stressed. As the world’s most populous landlocked nation, the country’s strategic push to reconnect with the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden corridors represents a foundational pillar for both its domestic survival and the broader geopolitical integration.

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2026 (ENA) —The 70th General Conference of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), bringing together representatives of 181 member states, including Ethiopia, is underway in Vienna, with member states discussing nuclear safety and security, technology applications and the peaceful uses of nuclear science. The annual General Conference serves as the IAEA’s principal policymaking forum, where representatives of member states review the Agency’s activities, consider key issues in the nuclear field and set priorities for its work. Since the IAEA was founded in 1957, the conference has provided a global platform for advancing the peaceful applications of nuclear technology across areas ranging from energy production and cancer care to food security, water management, nuclear safety and security, and safeguards. Decisions adopted during the conference help shape the Agency’s programme of work for the year ahead, ensuring that its activities respond to emerging global needs and development priorities.   Opening the conference, IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi highlighted the Agency’s achievements over the past year and their positive impacts, underscoring the growing role of nuclear science and technology in addressing development and humanitarian challenges. The conference also features a scientific forum focused on expanding access to cancer treatment services, as well as side events and exhibitions highlighting advances and practical applications of nuclear science and technology. Delegates are further deliberating on measures to strengthen nuclear safety and security and expand the peaceful application of nuclear technology.   The agenda includes consideration of the IAEA’s 2025 Annual Report, an update to the Agency’s 2027 budget, financial reports and the election of members to the IAEA Board of Governors. Representing Ethiopia at the high-level conference are Ambassador Haileselassie Subba, Deputy Permanent Representative Permanent Mission Geneva and Second Secretary Betelhem Mekonnen, who are leading the Ethiopian delegation. The 70th General Conference comes as countries continue to explore how nuclear science and technology can contribute to global priorities, including energy, health, food security, environmental management and sustainable development.

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2026 (ENA) —The Ethio-Israel cooperation across agriculture, health, technology, water, energy, investment and other sectors reflects the broadening of the bilateral relationship between the two countries, according to Ambassador Avraham Neguise. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Israel's Ambassador Neguise noted that the relationship between the two countries has deep historical roots and has evolved into a broad modern partnership covering government-to-government cooperation, investment, technology and capacity building. “Ethiopia and Israel have a unique relationship rooted in ancient times that has brought us to the present bilateral relationship,” he said. According to him, the Israeli Embassy in Addis Ababa is working in several areas to strengthen and expand the longstanding relationship between the countries. Agriculture is among the key areas of Ethiopia-Israel cooperation, with Israeli investors establishing companies in Ethiopia and introducing Israeli agricultural technologies and expertise. The Ambassador pointed to agricultural investments in Bishoftu where Israeli companies are producing fruits and vegetables. “Cooperation and investment in the sector have contributed to Ethiopia’s growing exports of agricultural products, including avocados, to international markets such as Europe and China,” Ambassador Neguise said. Furthermore, he pointed out that Ethiopia’s macroeconomic reforms are creating a more favorable environment for foreign investors, including Israeli companies. “The macroeconomic policy is a very important policy because it invites foreign investors, and among the foreign investors are Israelis.” Ambassador Neguise said the reforms are making it easier for investors to establish businesses and explore opportunities in Ethiopia. Ethiopia’s natural resources, including its mining potential, are areas that could attract further Israeli investment, he stated, adding that Israeli companies are already engaged in mining activities involving different minerals, including gold. “Ethiopia is now liberalized in its economy, reformed in its legal system, and technology and innovation are very helpful to run businesses and to invest in Ethiopia,” he elaborated. Health is the other area in which the two countries are expanding cooperation, Ambassador Neguise added, stating that Israeli doctors have been working with Ethiopian medical professionals through workshops and other capacity-building programs, while Ethiopian doctors have also traveled to Israel to participate in educational seminars. The cooperation focuses on sharing Israeli health-service technologies, innovation and expertise to contribute to the development of Ethiopia’s health system. In addition, the Ambassador highlighted cooperation in innovation and technology, particularly in cybersecurity. “As Ethiopia is marching to the digital system, the challenge of cybersecurity always exists,” he noted, stating that Israel is sharing its experience in addressing cybersecurity challenges. Water management and renewable energy are also emerging areas of cooperation, according to Ambassador Neguise. He recalled the memorandum of understanding signed on areas including efficient water use, technological monitoring of water resources and irrigation development. He further cited cooperation between Israeli experts and Ethiopian Investment Holdings in strengthening the ecosystem for startups and entrepreneurs, including initiatives aimed at encouraging job creation and entrepreneurship. The two countries are also cooperating in preventing crime through relations with the Federal Police, it was learned.

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2026 (ENA) —Egypt must align its Nile strategy with the realities of the 21st century, former Ethiopia's House of People's Representatives Speaker Teshome Toga said, stressing that outdated colonial-era notions can no longer guide the management of a shared transboundary river. In his analytical article, the former Speaker noted that the Nile Basin has been transformed by population growth, climate change, rising energy demand, food insecurity and rapid economic development, requiring a new framework based on cooperation, equity and mutual respect. Therefore, “the Nile must be managed according to the realities of the twenty-first century, not the logic of a bygone colonial era”. The Blue Nile Abay River, which originates in the Ethiopian highlands, contributes about 86 percent of the Nile’s annual flow, underscoring Ethiopia’s central role in the basin. The former Speaker stressed that Egypt’s dependence on the Nile does not give it monopoly over the river, saying a shared international watercourse must be governed through fairness and mutual recognition of the rights of all riparian states. “Dependence on the Nile does not confer monopoly over a shared river,” he wrote. Teshome criticized the continued reliance on colonial-era and exclusionary agreements, including the 1959 bilateral arrangement between Egypt and Sudan, which allocated the river’s waters without the participation of upstream countries, including Ethiopia. Such arrangements cannot provide a sustainable basis for managing a shared resource in the modern era, he added. Teshome described the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a clear manifestation of Ethiopia’s new reality and its growing ability to mobilize domestic resources for national development. He noted that the dam reflects Ethiopia’s resolve to expand electricity access, reduce poverty and accelerate economic transformation through self-reliance. “The GERD has demonstrated Ethiopia’s resolve, self-reliance, and ability to build for its future with its own resources.” Teshome stated that attempts to block Ethiopia’s development projects through external financing restrictions, political pressure or vetoes would not succeed. “No veto, no pressure, and no external interference can stop Ethiopia’s march toward development.” Moreover, the former Speaker and diplomat rejected military confrontation as a solution to Nile disputes, saying no military strategy can ensure sustainable water security. “Military confrontation cannot resolve the Nile question; only dialogue can,” he underscored. He further underlined Ethiopia’s long-standing commitment to diplomacy and cooperation, citing the 2015 Declaration of Principles on the GERD as an important example of peaceful engagement with Egypt and Sudan. The former Speaker called for genuine negotiations founded on sovereign equality, equitable and reasonable utilization, mutual respect, scientific cooperation and the peaceful settlement of disputes. “The Nile should be a bridge of cooperation, not a permanent source of tension,” he pointed out. No country should monopolize a shared river and no nation should be denied its legitimate right to development, he added. In conclusion, Teshome noted that the future of the Nile must be built on shared responsibility, shared prosperity and a political understanding that reflects the realities of the 21st century.

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2026 (ENA) — The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has called for coordinated and large-scale investment to strengthen food systems resilience across the Horn of Africa. The call was made at the opening of IGAD Final Expert Validation and Ministerial Endorsement of the IGAD Regional Agrifood Systems Investment Plan (RASIP) 2026–2035 that opened today. Speaking on the occasion, IGAD Food Systems Resilience Programme Project Coordinator Senait Regassa said the IGAD Regional Agrifood Systems Investment Plan (RASIP) 2026–2035 is designed to translate continental and regional commitments into practical action. According to her, the regional agrifood systems investment plan links agriculture, environment, trade, and resilience into a coherent framework for food security, economic growth, and social stability. She noted that food insecurity in the IGAD region is being driven by multiple and interconnected challenges, including climate shocks, conflicts, economic volatility and structural weaknesses in food systems. The RASIP 2026–2035 seeks to take a more integrated approach to food systems by linking sustainable agricultural production with trade, investment, nutrition, climate resilience, governance and research. The meeting is also considering the IGAD Regional Seed Policy and Regulatory Framework, which is intended to strengthen regional cooperation on seed systems and improve access to quality seed varieties adapted to climate and pest-related challenges. The framework is expected to promote cooperation among governments, farmers, private-sector actors and technical and development partners, contributing to increased agricultural productivity and food security across the region. Minister of Agriculture Advisor, Zena Habtewold, said the regional investment plan comes at a critical time as countries in the region continue to face food insecurity amid recurrent droughts, floods and other pressures. “The regional agricultural system investment plan comes at a pivotal moment, aligning with the Kampala Declaration strategy and action plan,” he added. He highlighted the potential of the region's agricultural resources and young population, stressing the need to translate these assets into practical investments and improved livelihoods. The Advisor pointed to Ethiopia's experience in areas including irrigated wheat production, improved seed varieties and cluster farming as examples of efforts to strengthen food and nutrition security. Ethiopia's Green Legacy Initiative, which combines landscape restoration, agroforestry, soil conservation and fruit-tree development, also demonstrates how agricultural productivity and environmental restoration can be pursued together. During the three-day session, participants will review the investment priorities, results framework and implementation arrangements of RASIP 2026–2035 before its ministerial endorsement. The meeting has brought together experts, policymakers, representatives of IGAD member states and development partners to review regional priorities and strengthen policy and investment frameworks for more resilient agrifood systems. It forms part of IGAD's broader efforts to strengthen regional food systems resilience, improve preparedness for shocks and promote coordinated investment and policy action among member states.

Addis Ababa, September 16, 2026 (ENA) — IGAD Executive Secretary, Workneh Gebeyehu, has urged member states to step up and strengthen ownership of the regional bloc, emphasizing that the organization’s future depends on sustained political and financial commitment. Speaking at the opening session of the 74th Extraordinary Session of the IGAD Council of Ministers, the Executive Secretary began with gratitude to IGAD member states for the political and diplomatic backing that keeps the organization operational, noting that the financial contributions provided by states are essential for a Secretariat of IGAD’s size to carry out its mandate. Workneh said the meeting comes as IGAD returns to the birthplace of its founding conviction —namely that the challenges of the region could only be addressed through collective action. He described today's session as extraordinary, pointing to Sudan’s return as a sign of the organization’s renewed completeness. The Executive Secretary welcomed Sudan, describing its resumption of full membership in February as a restoration of the IGAD family. IGAD reopened its mission in Khartoum in July, portraying it as a standing link between IGAD and Sudan’s government and people. According to the Executive Secretary, IGAD is meeting at a demanding hour not only due to internal conditions within member states but also because conflicts beyond the region are now affecting ports, fuel supplies, grain markets, and humanitarian budgets. He said nearly 49 million people are acutely food insecure, while more than 19 million are displaced within their own countries. Sudan, Workneh added, remains the epicenter of one of the world’s gravest emergencies, and referenced shifting control at the Red Sea as underscoring how rapidly regional developments can affect livelihoods. Despite the challenges, he reported that in the first half of the year 77 percent of IGAD’s priority areas were on track. The Executive Secretary highlighted performance achievements, including decision-support products, high availability of a regional groundwater information system, improvements in a universal health coverage index, and anticipatory action frameworks operating in 4 of IGAD’s 7 Member States. He congratulated Djibouti, Ethiopia, and Uganda for their national elections held under IGAD observation, and expressed confidence in South Sudan’s preparations for elections scheduled for December. The Executive Secretary also pointed to IGAD’s 40th year and the entry into force of the new IGAD Treaty, noting that five of the 7 member states have ratified it. According to him, the systems of cooperation are working, but emphasized that what is required is fuel, meaning stronger commitment and predictable resources. Workneh asked the Council for three actions: Stabilize essential operations now, settle historical arrears in an orderly way, and build a financing framework designed to prevent recurring funding crises. Moreover, he stressed that IGAD also needs to prepare for the impending El Niño season before floodwaters rise, calling for a legacy initiative to position the region as an author rather than a subject in the age of artificial intelligence. The peoples of the region have shown resilience, but what they require from IGAD is resolve, the Executive Secretary underscored, urging ministers to ensure that the extraordinary session produces concrete decisions.

Addis Ababa, September 14, 2026 (ENA) —The 74th Extraordinary Session of the IGAD Council of Ministers held in Djibouti today has reviewed key regional developments and challenges affecting the region. Foreign Affairs State Minister Hadera Abera participated in the Extraordinary Session which reviewed key developments and challenges affecting the IGAD region. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the discussions focused on regional peace and security, the evolving situation in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandab as well as developments in Sudan, Somalia and South Sudan, among other.   Particular attention was given to the role IGAD can play in facilitating dialogue, promoting political solutions and supporting regional peace and stability. The session also considered the current financial and institutional situation of IGAD, underscoring the need to strengthen the organization’s institutional capacity, financial sustainability and operational effectiveness to enable it to more effectively discharge its mandate and respond to emerging regional challenges.

Abay/Nile Waters at the Intersection of Ethiopia- Egypt Relations   Sept. 15, 2026 (ENA) By Ambassador Teshome Toga Chanaka (PHD) Background The Nile is one of the world’s great transboundary river systems, shared by eleven riparian countries. Egypt and Sudan are the principal downstream states with virtually no contribution to the flow of the Nile. The Nile’s waters originate in the upstream countries, Ethiopia being the source of the Blue Nile. The Blue Nile, originating in the Ethiopian highlands, contributes 86% share of the Nile’s annual flow. For centuries, the utilization of Nile waters has been a source of tension between upstream and downstream countries. Historical circumstances, colonial legacies and competing interpretations of rights over the river have contributed to a pattern of mistrust that has often prevented the emergence of a genuinely cooperative basin-wide framework. Egypt, in particular, has developed and maintained an entrenched position concerning the allocation and utilization of the Nile waters. Its continued emphasis on what it describes as “historical rights” and on agreements concluded during periods when most upstream countries were not parties to the negotiations has made it difficult to establish a framework based on contemporary principles of international water law, particularly equitable and reasonable utilization and the obligation to cooperate. The 1959 Agreement between Egypt and Sudan is a particularly important example. The agreement allocated the entire estimated Nile flow between the two downstream countries without the participation of the other riparian states, including Ethiopia, the source of the Blue Nile. It is difficult to envisage how such an arrangement could provide a sustainable basis for managing a shared trans boundary resource in the twenty-first century. The fundamental issue, therefore, is not whether Egypt has legitimate interests in the Nile. It unquestionably does. The question is whether those interests can legitimately be pursued at the expense of the equally legitimate interests of the other riparian states. Why Egypt Needs a New Nile Strategy for the 21st Century? Egypt’s heavy dependence on the Nile is a reality that Ethiopia fully understands. But dependence does not confer a monopoly over a shared international watercourse. The challenge is to reconcile Egypt’s legitimate water-security concerns with the development aspirations and rights of the upstream countries. The twenty-first century has transformed the political, economic and technological circumstances of the Nile Basin. Population growth, climate change, food insecurity, energy demands, economic development and changing patterns of regional cooperation have fundamentally altered the context in which Nile waters must be managed. It is therefore neither realistic nor sustainable to approach the Nile exclusively through the prism of historical allocations. The river must increasingly be viewed as a shared resource whose sustainable management requires cooperation, dialogue, scientific evidence and equitable utilization. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) represents perhaps the clearest manifestation of this changing reality. The GERD has demonstrated Ethiopia’s growing capacity to mobilize domestic resources and undertake major infrastructure projects in pursuit of its national development objectives. Whatever one’s position on the dam, it has fundamentally changed the political and strategic context of the Nile question.   Consequently, statements that Ethiopia should not be permitted to construct another dam on the Blue Nile cannot provide a serious basis for future policy. Ethiopia’s development needs cannot be indefinitely subordinated to another country’s perception of its own water security. Nor is it realistic to assume that Ethiopia’s development projects on the Nile can be prevented indefinitely through efforts to restrict international financing. The experience of the GERD demonstrated Ethiopia’s ability to mobilize domestic resources when external financing was unavailable. This is an important lesson for all concerned: the future of the Nile cannot be determined through vetoes, pressure or attempts to prevent development. It must be shaped through cooperation. The same applies to the broader political relationship between Ethiopia and Egypt. Attempts to address differences over the Nile through political pressure, geopolitical rivalry or support for destabilizing forces cannot provide a sustainable solution. Such approaches risk deepening mistrust and making an eventual settlement more difficult. Military confrontation is equally untenable. No military strategy can produce sustainable water security. The Nile will continue to flow across borders long after political crises have passed. The only durable answer is therefore a political and diplomatic framework that recognizes the legitimate interests of all riparian countries. Other major transboundary river systems demonstrate that shared rivers need not inevitably become sources of military confrontation. China, for example, shares numerous transboundary rivers with neighboring countries and has developed a variety of mechanisms for managing shared water interests. The experiences of other river basins demonstrate that differences can be managed through dialogue, cooperation and negotiated arrangements. The Comprehensive Framework Agreement and the Changing Regional Context The effort by the Nile Basin riparian states to establish a basin-wide legal framework has been underway for many years. The negotiation of the Cooperative Framework Agreement (CFA) was intended to provide a more inclusive and equitable basis for cooperation among the Nile Basin countries. The CFA’s evolution reflects an important reality: upstream countries increasingly expect their interests and development needs to be recognized within the governance of the Nile Basin. The issue is therefore larger than the GERD or the relationship between Egypt and Ethiopia. It concerns the fundamental question of how an international river basin should be governed in an era of population growth, climate change, energy transition and rapid economic transformation.   A sustainable Nile framework cannot be built around arrangements negotiated without the participation of all concerned states. Nor can the interests of downstream countries simply be ignored. The answer lies in developing an inclusive framework that accommodates the legitimate concerns of downstream states while recognizing the development rights of upstream countries. Ethiopia’s Cooperative Approach Should Not Be Mistaken for Weakness Since the political transition of 1991, Ethiopia has repeatedly expressed its preference for dialogue and cooperation in addressing the Nile question. The 1993 memorandum of understanding reached during the visit of Ethiopia’s Transitional Government leadership to Cairo and the subsequent 2015 Declaration of Principles on the GERD involving Ethiopia, Egypt and Sudan were important demonstrations of Ethiopia’s willingness to engage diplomatically and seek mutually beneficial solutions. The Declaration of Principles was particularly significant because it established a set of principles intended to guide the three countries in addressing issues related to the GERD, including cooperation, equitable and reasonable utilization, the obligation not to cause significant harm, and the peaceful settlement of disputes. These initiatives demonstrate that Ethiopia does not seek confrontation with Egypt. Indeed, Ethiopia has repeatedly made clear that it has no intention in harming the Egyptian people. This was amply stated by PM Abiy Ahmed during his offical visit to Cairo. Ethiopians and Egyptians share deep historical, cultural and human bonds. If the two countries estblish cooperation and working together, the benefits will transcend the borders of the two countries. The outcome will have broader regional impact. The Nile should be a bridge connecting the peoples of the two countries rather than a permanent source of antagonism between them. But cooperation is necessarily reciprocal. Ethiopia’s willingness to negotiate should not be interpreted as an acceptance of arrangements that deny its legitimate development interests. Nor should restraint be mistaken for weakness. Ethiopia has legitimate interests in using its natural resources to reduce poverty, expand access to electricity, develop agriculture and transform its economy. At the same time, Ethiopia has an interest in ensuring that its utilization of the Nile is undertaken responsibly and without significant harm to downstream populations. This is precisely why a cooperative framework is possible. The Way Forward: From Confrontation to Cooperation The Nile question has reached a point where old assumptions need to be reconsidered. Egypt’s water-security concerns are legitimate. Ethiopia’s development aspirations are equally legitimate. Sudan also has legitimate interests that must be taken into account. The challenge is to create a framework in which these interests are not viewed as mutually exclusive. The choice before Egypt and Ethiopia should therefore not be framed as a choice between Egyptian water security and Ethiopian development. The real choice is between competition and cooperation; confrontation and dialogue; unilateralism and shared governance. There is considerable room for cooperation. The two countries could strengthen scientific and technical cooperation on hydrology, climate change, drought and flood management, sedimentation, agricultural productivity, electricity trade and water-use efficiency. Ethiopia’s potential for hydropower development and Egypt’s expertise in water management could, for example, become complementary rather than competing assets. A broader economic relationship could also transform the politics of the Nile. Energy trade, investment, infrastructure connectivity, agriculture and regional economic integration could create incentives for both countries to regard the river as an opportunity for mutual benefit rather than a zero-sum contest. The way forward is therefore not through threats, pressure or attempts to prevent Ethiopia from developing its water resources. Nor is it through unilateral actions that disregard the legitimate concerns of downstream countries. The answer is a return to the negotiating table with a different mindset. Egypt needs to recognize that the Nile Basin of the twenty-first century is fundamentally different from the Nile Basin of the nineteenth or twentieth century. Ethiopia, for its part, should continue to demonstrate that its development of the Nile can coexist with the legitimate water-security interests of downstream countries. The central principle should be simple: no country should seek to monopolize a shared river, and no country should be denied its legitimate right to development. The Nile can become either a permanent fault line between Egypt and Ethiopia or an unprecedented opportunity for cooperation between two ancient civilizations. The choice is ultimately political.   What is required now is not another round of confrontation, but a new political understanding—one founded on sovereign equality, equitable and reasonable utilization, mutual respect, scientific cooperation and shared prosperity. The Nile does not belong to one country. It is a shared resource, and its future must be built on shared responsibility. …………………… * The author is former Ethiopian Ambassador to Egypt. The views only represent that of the author alone. Ambassador Teshome Toga Chanaka is a senior Ethiopian politician and veteran diplomat. He served as Speaker of the House of Peoples' Representatives, Minister of Youth, Sports, and Culture, and Commissioner of the National Rehabilitation Commission. In his diplomatic career, he served as Ambassador to the European Union, China, Kenya, and Ghana.

Addis Ababa, September 14, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed participated in the second and final day of the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi on September 13, as leaders of the bloc member countries concluded two days of high-level deliberations with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration. Held under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability,” the summit brought together heads of state and government from BRICS member and partner countries, alongside leaders of international institutions, to discuss major global and regional issues and strengthen cooperation across the Global South. The summit concluded with the adoption of the BRICS New Delhi Declaration, containing 140 consensus positions that set out the bloc’s collective positions on a wide range of issues.   The New Delhi Declaration underscores the need to reform global governance institutions, strengthen international and regional peace and security, promote sustainable economic growth, and foster greater people-to-people exchanges. According to a social media post by the Office of the Prime Minister, the declaration also reaffirmed strong BRICS support for Ethiopia’s ongoing accession process to the World Trade Organization (WTO), reinforcing the country’s efforts to deepen its integration into the global trading system. The BRICS leaders further expressed strong support for Ethiopia’s candidature as the sole candidate endorsed by the African Union for an additional seat on the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council. The bloc also jointly backed Ethiopia’s preparations to host the 32nd United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP32), scheduled to take place in Addis Ababa in 2027, highlighting Ethiopia’s growing role in advancing global climate and development priorities.   Beyond the multilateral outcomes, Prime Minister Abiy held a series of bilateral meetings with leaders of BRICS member and partner countries on the sidelines of the summit. The discussions focused on expanding cooperation in key areas, including trade, investment, defense, technology and digitalization, with an emphasis on strengthening mutually beneficial partnerships. The Prime Minister had earlier attended the opening session of the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit on September 12 and joined other leaders at a gala dinner following the first day’s proceedings, it was learned. At the conclusion of the two-day summit, BRICS leaders approved China as the host of the 19th BRICS Summit, marking the next stage in the bloc’s expanding cooperation.   Prime Minister Abiy has since returned to Addis Ababa following his participation in the summit, where Ethiopia’s diplomatic engagement highlighted its growing role in BRICS and its broader pursuit of economic, technological and strategic partnerships.

Addis Ababa, September 14, 2026 (ENA) — Germany and Denmark have emphasized cultural diplomacy, people to people exchanges, academic cooperation and green transformation as key pillars of their longstanding partnerships with Ethiopia. In a recent interview with ENA, Ferdinand von Weyhe, Germany’s Deputy Head of Mission, noted cultural diplomacy and people to people relations remain central to the bilateral relationship. He further stressed that high level political engagement should be complemented by direct connections between the peoples of the two countries. “It is very important because, in the end, you may have high level political interaction and conversations, but it is ultimately about people-to-people relations. We are defined by our culture, and it is enriching to experience other cultures and be inspired by them,” von Weyhe said. He further noted cultural diplomacy and cultural exchange constitute core pillars of Germany’s cooperation with Ethiopia, noting that bilateral relations are reflected in practical initiatives and institutional partnerships. “Cultural diplomacy and cultural exchange are among the core pillars of our bilateral cooperation. We can always talk at a high level, but it has to come down to concrete cooperation,” he said. Von Weyhe cited the German Embassy School in Addis Ababa, the Goethe-Institut, educational exchanges involving Ethiopian students studying in Germany, and archaeological cooperation as examples of the concrete dimensions of the partnership.     “One very concrete example is our German School here in Addis Ababa and the Goethe-Institut, as well as the many Ethiopian students who go to Germany to study and our archaeological cooperation,” he said. He particularly highlighted the longstanding archaeological cooperation between the two countries, including joint research at Yeha, near Adwa in the Tigray Region, where Ethiopian and German archaeologists continue to work together. “This year we are celebrating 120 years of the German Aksum Expedition. This is not simply something that happened 120 years ago. Even today, there is archaeological cooperation in Yeha, close to Adwa, where Ethiopian and German archaeologists are excavating together. This is culture at its best,” von Weyhe said. The German diplomat also pointed to the historical depth of relations between the two countries, noting that Germany and Ethiopia recently marked significant milestones in their diplomatic and cultural ties. He further highlighted a recent cultural exchange involving the donation of historical artifacts to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies at Addis Ababa University. According to von Weyhe, descendants of a German diplomat who served in Ethiopia about a century ago donated cultural items, including a crown and a shield, that had been presented to their ancestor during his time in Ethiopia. The items had reportedly been given to the German diplomat’s family by Ras Tafari, who later became Emperor Haile Selassie I. The family subsequently decided to return the artifacts to Ethiopia, where they could be preserved and made accessible through the Institute of Ethiopian Studies. “The return of these cultural items was a very enriching and powerful signal for cultural cooperation. The heirs of my predecessor, a German diplomat who served 100 years ago, decided that they had no use for the artifacts in their home in Europe and donated them to the Institute of Ethiopian Studies. I think this was a very powerful gesture,” von Weyhe said. Meanwhile, Denmark highlighted green transformation and sustainable economic growth as important areas of its cooperation with Ethiopia. Denmark’s Deputy Head of Mission Mirja Crone also told ENA that past year had been marked by significant progress in both Ethiopian government initiatives and Danish Ethiopian cooperation, particularly in efforts to support a greener and more sustainable economy. “It has been a very busy year, with many achievements by the Ethiopian government and in Danish Ethiopian cooperation as well. We are working toward a greener transformation, bringing Danish expertise together with Ethiopian companies and professionals to promote more sustainable and green growth,” she said.     The cooperation involves sharing Danish expertise with Ethiopian companies and professionals, with the aim of supporting sustainable economic development and advancing Ethiopia’s green transition. The diplomats made the remarks during New Year visits to their respective embassies. The visits were organized jointly by the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism as part of broader efforts to strengthen cultural diplomacy, diplomatic engagement and people to people relations. The diplomats highlight the expanding scope of Ethiopia’s partnerships with European countries, extending beyond traditional diplomatic engagement to include cultural exchange, education, archaeology, professional cooperation, sustainable development and green economic transformation.

Addis Ababa, September 14, 2026 (ENA) —The BRICS member states have reaffirmed their support for Ethiopia’s bid to join the World Trade Organization (WTO), its candidacy for the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Council, and its bid for the presidency of the UN climate change conference COP32. According to a social media post by the Office of the Prime Minister, the positions are reflected in the New Delhi Declaration adopted at the 18th BRICS Summit held in New Delhi, India, from September 12 to 13, 2026. The declaration states that BRICS strongly supports Ethiopia and Iran’s bids for accession to the WTO, in the context of efforts to strengthen the participation of developing countries in the multilateral trading system. It also welcomes Ethiopia’s candidacy for the ICAO Council, noting that Ethiopia has been endorsed by the African Union as the sole African candidate for the additional Council seat allocated to underrepresented regions. In addition, the declaration expresses support for Ethiopia’s UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) COP32 presidency, following its commendation of the successful conclusion of Brazil’s COP30 presidency. The three positions underline BRICS’ support for Ethiopia’s engagement in key multilateral institutions and processes, spanning global trade, international civil aviation, and climate diplomacy. The New Delhi Declaration was issued under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”

By Staff Writer Sept. 13, 2026 (ENA) Ethiopia entered the 2019 Ethiopian calendar year with an unusually broad national agenda—intensified diplomacy, investment promotion, economic transformation, digital innovation, reconciliation and a renewed focus on strategic maritime interests. From September 6 to 12, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s participation in the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi dominated Ethiopia’s international agenda. His engagements with leaders of major emerging economies highlighted Addis Ababa’s determination to turn diplomacy into opportunities for investment, technology, trade and development cooperation. At home, the government entered the new year emphasizing economic transformation, logistics development, digitalization, climate resilience and reconciliation. The release of more than 600 federal prisoners added a strong political and reconciliation dimension to the New Year, while renewed discussion over Ethiopia’s pursuit of reliable Red Sea access placed the country’s economic and security interests at the centre of a wider regional debate. Taken together, the week’s developments point to an emerging national strategy: strengthen domestic productive capacity, widen international partnerships, attract capital and technology, deepen regional influence and pursue strategic interests while maintaining a commitment to cooperation and peaceful engagement. A New Year of Renewal and Reflection   Ethiopia celebrated Enkutatash 2019 on September 11, following the five-day Pagume period that bridges the old and new years. The occasion carried both cultural and political significance. Government leaders used the New Year to emphasize peace, national unity, development and continued reform. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and First Lady Zinash Tayachew shared a New Year meal with members of the local community, underscoring the traditional values of solidarity and togetherness. Enkutatash is among Ethiopia’s most distinctive cultural celebrations. Observed on Meskerem 1, it marks the beginning of a new year in the Ethiopian calendar and coincides with the transition from the rainy season to clearer skies, green landscapes and the appearance of the yellow Adey Abeba flowers. But Enkutatash represents more than the turning of a calendar page. It is a season of renewal, hope, reconciliation and togetherness. Families gather, children visit relatives and friends, traditional foods are prepared and people exchange wishes for peace, health and prosperity. Young girls traditionally perform Hoya Hoye, moving from house to house and receiving gifts in return. Across Ethiopia’s diverse communities, the New Year is celebrated through different traditions, music, dance, clothing and cuisine, while retaining a shared spirit of renewal. Churches and religious communities also hold special services, prayers and celebrations. In Addis Ababa and other cities, the celebration is increasingly accompanied by public cultural programmes, concerts, exhibitions and community events. Diplomatic representatives, including Israeli Ambassador to Ethiopia Avraham Neguise and Cameroon’s Ambassador Churchill Ewumbue Monono, also extended New Year greetings to Ethiopians. For many Ethiopians, Enkutatash is therefore both celebration and reflection—a moment to leave behind the difficulties of the previous year, strengthen relationships and enter the new one with renewed determination. BRICS Puts Ethiopia’s Global South Strategy in Focus   The most prominent diplomatic development of the week was Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s participation in the 18th BRICS Leaders’ Summit in New Delhi. For Ethiopia, the summit was more than a high-level diplomatic gathering. It offered a platform to deepen engagement with major emerging economies while advancing Addis Ababa’s broader effort to strengthen Africa’s role within an evolving global order. Prime Minister Abiy called for stronger BRICS cooperation with Africa, particularly in minerals, renewable energy and industrial development. He stressed the importance of enabling African countries to move beyond exporting raw materials and capture greater value from their resources. Artificial intelligence also featured prominently in Ethiopia’s message. PM Abiy urged BRICS countries to ensure that AI becomes a tool for Africa’s development rather than another source of technological inequality. Debt sustainability and climate finance were also highlighted, linking the priorities of emerging economies with the development challenges confronting Africa. Ethiopia further proposed a BRICS coordination track toward COP32, which Addis Ababa is scheduled to host in 2027. The proposal reflects Ethiopia’s effort to connect economic diplomacy, climate action and the development priorities of the Global South. The strategic significance for Ethiopia is considerable. BRICS engagement can potentially expand access to markets, investment, technology and alternative sources of development finance while strengthening relations with some of the world’s fastest-growing economies. In this sense, Ethiopia’s BRICS diplomacy is increasingly economic as well as political. Bilateral Diplomacy Moves Toward Trade, Technology and Investment The New Delhi summit also created space for a series of bilateral engagements. Prime Minister Abiy’s meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin focused on strengthening the Ethiopia-Russia strategic partnership across areas including defence and security, trade, investment, education, technology, culture, climate and development.   His talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi explored opportunities to further strengthen Ethiopia-India relations, particularly in investment, defence and emerging sectors. With Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, discussions focused on investment, tourism, renewable energy and industrial development. Abiy also held discussions with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on Red Sea security and regional stability, while meeting Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vietnamese Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng. The breadth of these engagements illustrates a broader shift in Ethiopia’s foreign economic policy: diplomatic relationships are increasingly being viewed as platforms for investment, trade, technology transfer, industrial cooperation and development partnerships. Investment Diplomacy Takes Centre Stage Investment promotion remained another defining feature of the week. President Taye Atske Selassie led a high-level Ethiopian delegation to Dubai for the 15th Annual Investment Meeting, presenting Ethiopia’s investment opportunities and highlighting ongoing economic reforms. Clean energy and other strategic sectors were presented as areas of substantial potential for foreign investment. The engagement formed part of the government’s effort to increase private-sector participation in Ethiopia’s economic transformation. Ethiopia is also seeking stronger economic ties with Gulf countries. President Taye called for increased Qatari investment, reflecting Addis Ababa’s wider effort to attract capital into infrastructure, energy, manufacturing and other productive sectors. The message is increasingly clear: Ethiopia wants foreign investment not simply as a source of capital, but as a vehicle for expanding production, creating jobs, transferring technology and integrating the country more deeply into regional and global markets. Mojo Logistics Hub Strengthens the Trade Infrastructure   The inauguration of the expanded Mojo logistics centre marked another significant development in Ethiopia’s economic transformation. Located about 70 kilometres southeast of Addis Ababa, the facility covers approximately 60 hectares and is designed to increase freight-handling capacity, improve cargo movement and strengthen regional connectivity. Prime Minister Abiy described the project as an important step toward regional economic integration and the practical implementation of Ethiopia’s ambitions under the African Continental Free Trade Area. The significance of logistics extends beyond a single facility. For a landlocked economy heavily dependent on international trade, efficient logistics can reduce transportation costs, improve export competitiveness and connect Ethiopian producers more effectively with regional and international markets. It also complements Ethiopia’s broader maritime strategy: access to ports is only as useful as the inland systems that can move goods efficiently between production centres and maritime corridors. Growth Continues, but Transformation Must Reach Households Ethiopia entered 2019 with economic transformation remaining at the centre of the government’s agenda. Macroeconomic reform, private-sector development, manufacturing, agricultural commercialization, export growth and infrastructure expansion remain key priorities. The World Bank reported 9.2 percent economic growth for Ethiopia in fiscal year 2024/25, placing the country among Africa’s faster-growing economies. Yet strong headline growth does not automatically translate into broad-based prosperity. Low per-capita income, limited employment opportunities and pressure on household purchasing power remain significant challenges. The central question for the new year, therefore, is not simply whether Ethiopia can sustain growth, but whether growth can generate productive employment, strengthen household incomes and improve living standards. Reconciliation at the Start of a New Year Peace and reconciliation also featured prominently as Ethiopia entered 2019. More than 600 federal prisoners, including prominent figures, were released around the New Year. The move was presented as part of broader efforts to promote reconciliation and create conditions for political dialogue. Prime Minister Abiy urged those released to use the opportunity to begin the New Year in a spirit of peace and contribute to the outcomes of the national consultation process. The releases gave the New Year a powerful reconciliation message. At the same time, Ethiopia’s continuing security challenges demonstrate that reconciliation is not a single event but a longer national process. Turning political openings into sustainable peace remains one of the country’s most important—and difficult—tasks. From Paper to Digital Digital transformation is becoming increasingly central to Ethiopia’s development ambitions. In a message marking Pagume 5, described as “The Day of the Future,” Prime Minister Abiy said Ethiopia was moving “from paper to digital, from passive consumption to active innovation.” The ambition goes beyond expanding internet access. Ethiopia is seeking to develop domestic technological capacity, modernize public services and build an economy capable of producing technology and innovation. Artificial intelligence is emerging as an important part of that strategy. Officials from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development visited the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute as part of regional consultations on an IGAD AI framework and strategy. At the BRICS summit, Abiy linked AI directly to Africa’s development, arguing that technological advancement should contribute to economic transformation and digital sovereignty. For Ethiopia, AI has potential applications across agriculture, healthcare, education, finance, manufacturing and public administration. The challenge now is implementation: building the infrastructure, skills, institutions and locally relevant solutions required to translate ambitious digital policies into measurable economic and social gains. Green Growth and Climate Resilience   Climate resilience was another important theme of the week. An assessment by AlphaGeo ranked Addis Ababa second globally and first in Africa among major cities for climate resilience, using geospatial artificial intelligence to assess climate exposure and adaptation capacity. The assessment comes as Ethiopia continues to position renewable energy, environmental restoration, green infrastructure and climate adaptation as integral components of its development strategy. A Green Growth Investment Forum held during the week called for stronger private-sector participation in green investment, reflecting an effort to connect environmental priorities with economic opportunity. Ethiopia’s preparations to host COP32 in 2027 provide an additional international platform. Addis Ababa is seeking to use the conference to amplify Africa’s voice on climate finance while promoting renewable energy, green investment and climate-resilient development. The broader challenge will be to ensure that climate action supports economic transformation rather than competing with it. Red Sea Access: A Strategic Question Ethiopia Cannot Ignore Perhaps no issue carries a greater strategic regional dimension than Ethiopia’s pursuit of reliable and sovereign access to the Red Sea. For Ethiopia, the issue is increasingly connected to economic development, national security, trade and the country’s demographic trajectory. Education Minister and economist Professor Berhanu Nega argued that Ethiopia’s growing population and economic requirements make the question of sea access increasingly difficult to postpone. “You cannot have 130 million people sitting here without access to the sea at a time when sea access is very important for security as well as trade,” Berhanu said. At the same time, he stressed that Ethiopia should pursue its objective peacefully and in a way that benefits neighbouring countries. “It is better if we do this peacefully, and not only peacefully but for mutual benefit, so that all of us can benefit from this,” he said. Israeli Ambassador to Ethiopia Avraham Neguise also expressed support for Ethiopia’s pursuit of sea access, describing it as a matter with wider implications for Red Sea stability. “Empowering and strengthening Ethiopia and creating stability in the Red Sea is the interest of all, not only for Ethiopia,” he said, adding that Ethiopia’s return to the Red Sea would be positive.   He further warned that instability along the maritime corridor could have consequences far beyond the Horn of Africa and the Middle East, affecting international trade and the global economy. Other analysts have placed greater emphasis on negotiation and regional arrangements. Former US Ambassador to Ethiopia and George Washington University adjunct professor David Shinn has suggested that Ethiopia’s maritime aspirations could potentially form part of a broader diplomatic understanding involving Ethiopia, Egypt and Eritrea. These perspectives point to the central challenge facing Ethiopia’s maritime ambitions. For Addis Ababa, dependable sea access is increasingly viewed as an economic and strategic necessity. For its neighbours, however, any new maritime arrangement must be carefully managed to avoid aggravating existing regional rivalries. The issue will therefore require diplomacy as much as strategy. Red Sea Insecurity Raises the Stakes The security situation around the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb adds another layer of urgency. Bab el-Mandeb connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and serves as a critical maritime gateway between the Indian Ocean and the Suez Canal route. Continued insecurity can disrupt shipping, increase transportation and insurance costs and place additional pressure on already vulnerable global supply chains. For Ethiopia, which depends heavily on maritime trade, prolonged disruption can directly affect the cost and reliability of imports and exports. This makes the maritime question part of a much larger economic equation. Efficient inland logistics, diversified trade corridors and stable regional maritime arrangements are all essential to protecting Ethiopia’s economic interests. The Bigger Picture The first major week of Ethiopia’s 2019 Ethiopian calendar year brought together issues that may initially appear separate but are increasingly interconnected. BRICS diplomacy is about more than foreign policy—it is also about markets, investment, technology and development finance. Investment diplomacy is about more than attracting capital—it is about expanding productive capacity, creating jobs and strengthening Ethiopia’s position in global value chains. The Mojo logistics centre is about more than cargo—it is part of the infrastructure required to make Ethiopia more competitive in regional and international trade. Digital transformation and artificial intelligence are about more than technology—they are increasingly tied to productivity, public services, innovation and economic sovereignty. Green development is about more than environmental protection—it is becoming an important source of investment, energy security and international influence. And the Red Sea question is about more than geography—it sits at the intersection of trade, security, demography, regional diplomacy and Ethiopia’s long-term economic ambitions. The release of more than 600 prisoners, meanwhile, gave the beginning of the new year a powerful message of reconciliation, even as continuing security challenges underline the difficult road ahead. A New Year, A Larger Strategic Test As Ethiopia begins 2019, the country faces the challenge of connecting these different priorities into one coherent national strategy. Economic growth must translate into jobs and better living standards. Investment must strengthen productive sectors rather than simply increase capital inflows. Digitalization must deliver practical gains. Climate action must support development. Reconciliation must contribute to lasting peace. And diplomacy must protect Ethiopia’s economic and strategic interests while avoiding unnecessary regional confrontation. The coming year will therefore be measured not only by the scale of Ethiopia’s ambitions, but by its ability to convert those ambitions into results. Ethiopia is seeking a larger role in the global economy, deeper partnerships with emerging powers, greater technological capacity, stronger regional connectivity and a more secure place within the maritime geography of the Horn of Africa. The strategic test will be to pursue these objectives while balancing national interests with regional cooperation and stability. That balance may ultimately define Ethiopia’s journey through 2019—and shape how the country positions itself in an increasingly competitive and interconnected world.

Addis Ababa, September 13, 2026 (ENA) —The 18th BRICS Summit concluded today in New Delhi with the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration. The Declaration reaffirms the bloc’s commitment to strengthening cooperation, promoting inclusive development and advancing a more representative and responsive international order. Held under India’s Presidency on September 12–13, 2026, the summit brought together BRICS leaders under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.”   The New Delhi Declaration reaffirms the principles of mutual respect and understanding, sovereign equality, solidarity, democracy, openness, inclusiveness, collaboration and consensus, while setting out shared priorities and the future direction of BRICS cooperation. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed participated in the summit, where he called for stronger partnerships within BRICS and deeper engagement with Africa, emphasizing the bloc’s potential to connect capital, technology and markets with the resources and opportunities of its member and partner economies. “Across BRICS, we have capital, technology and markets. The opportunity is to bring them together, create more value, and ensure that value is generated where resources are found,” Prime Minister Abiy said in a message shared on his social media platforms.   He highlighted Ethiopia’s readiness to expand cooperation in minerals, renewable energy and manufacturing, while underscoring the importance of building resilience, accelerating economic transformation and strengthening climate action. The Prime Minister also called for stronger cooperation among BRICS members and greater engagement with Africa, highlighting the need to ensure that emerging global partnerships generate tangible opportunities for developing economies. On the sidelines of the summit, Prime Minister Abiy held bilateral meetings with several leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The engagements explored opportunities to deepen bilateral and economic cooperation, including investment, trade, technology, regional affairs and other areas of mutual interest.   Prime Minister Abiy also participated in a closed session of BRICS leaders on “Inclusive Global Governance and Strengthening Multilateralism,” where leaders addressed the need for a more inclusive, representative and responsive global governance system. Discussions focused on reform of the United Nations system, the international financial architecture and the multilateral trading system, reflecting growing calls from the Global South for greater representation and a stronger voice in international decision-making. The summit also brought together business leaders, investors and entrepreneurs, including representatives of the BRICS Business Council and BRICS Women’s Business Alliance, underscoring the growing role of the private sector in advancing trade, investment and economic cooperation. With the adoption of the New Delhi Declaration, the summit concluded with a renewed emphasis on resilience, innovation, economic cooperation and sustainable development, while reinforcing BRICS’ evolving role in shaping a more inclusive and multipolar global order.

Addis Ababa, September 13, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has advocated for stronger African representation, expanded access to finance and markets, and practical measures to enhance trade, investment, and regional connectivity. According to a social media statement from Office of the Prime Minister, PM Abiy delivered these remarks during the BRICS Plus Session held alongside the 18th BRICS Leaders' Summit in New Delhi. To support these goals, Prime Minister Abiy announced that Ethiopia stands ready to host a New Development Bank (NDB) office in Addis Ababa to help extend the institution's reach across the continent.   Established by BRICS founding members to fund infrastructure and sustainable development in emerging markets, the NDB is headquartered in Shanghai and currently operates its Africa Regional Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa. Linking Africa's development priorities directly to climate action, the Prime Minister also emphasized that full BRICS backing would allow the 32nd UN Climate Change Conference (COP32) to serve as an inclusive platform for sustainable growth.   Ethiopia is scheduled to host COP32 in Addis Ababa in 2027 and looks forward to welcoming BRICS members and partner countries to the summit.

Addis Ababa, September 13, 2026 (ENA) —Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan have explored new avenues to deepen Ethiopia-Kazakhstan relations. on the sidelines of the 18th BRICS Summit in New Delhi, the two leaders held bilateral talks with a focus on digitalization, trade, investment and defense cooperation. “On the second morning of the BRICS Summit, I held a bilateral meeting with President Kassym Jomart Tokayev of Kazakhstan,” Prime Minister Abiy said in a post on his social media pages. Their discussions highlighted opportunities to expand cooperation in digitalization, business and investment, and defense, areas seen as important to strengthening the economic and strategic ties between the two countries. The meeting came as Prime Minister Abiy and a high-level Ethiopian delegation participated in the BRICS Summit under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” On the margins of the summit, the Prime Minister also held a series of bilateral meetings with leaders of BRICS member and partner countries, advancing discussions on areas of shared strategic interest. The engagements covered a broad range of issues, including investment, regional affairs, technology transfer, capacity building and skills development, tourism, mineral resources, and cooperation toward preparations for COP32. The growing diplomatic engagement reflects Ethiopia’s broader effort to strengthen ties with emerging economies, diversify its international partnerships and attract investment, technology and expertise to support its development priorities, it was learned.

Addis Ababa, September 12, 2026 (ENA) —The 18th BRICS Summit has strongly supported Ethiopia’s bid for accession to the World Trade Organization (WTO). The endorsement came in the New Delhi Declaration adopted at the summit, underscoring Ethiopia’s growing engagement in multilateral economic and global governance affairs. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and a high-level Ethiopian delegation participated in the summit, held under the theme “Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability.” In its declaration, BRICS leaders reaffirmed their commitment to an open, transparent, fair and rules-based multilateral trading system with the WTO at its core.   “Echoing the aspirations of the Global South to fully integrate into the multilateral trading system, we strongly support Ethiopia and Iran’s bid for accession to the WTO,” the declaration stated. The endorsement comes as Ethiopia advances its WTO accession process and strengthens economic ties with major emerging markets. In May 2026, Ethiopia and India signed a bilateral accession protocol in Geneva as part of Ethiopia’s WTO membership process. Addressing the BRICS Summit, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called for stronger cooperation among member states and deeper engagement with Africa, emphasizing the importance of leveraging BRICS capital, technology and markets to create greater value from the resources and opportunities available across member countries.   Beyond trade, the New Delhi Declaration also recognized Ethiopia’s growing role in international institutions. BRICS leaders welcomed Ethiopia’s candidacy for one of the newly expanded seats on the ICAO Council, noting that Ethiopia has been endorsed by the African Union as the continent’s sole candidate for the upcoming election. The twin endorsements on trade and global aviation governance reinforce Ethiopia’s push for a stronger voice in multilateral institutions and highlight the country’s expanding role within the Global South, it was indicated. Moreover, for Addis Ababa, the BRICS backing represents both diplomatic recognition and strategic momentum as Ethiopia seeks deeper integration into the global trading system and greater representation in international decision-making bodies.