Addis Ababa, May 10/2024(ENA) Justice Minister Gedion Timothewos reiterated that national ownership and responsibility are crucial for the success of implementation of the Transitional Justice Policy in Ethiopia. Recall that the Government of Ethiopia initiated a landmark national process to develop a comprehensive transitional justice policy framework anchored on the pillars of justice, accountability, reconciliation and redress in November 2022. As part of the process, the Transitional Justice Working Group of Experts was established under the Ministry of Justice and carried out nation-wide consultations, developed a transitional justice policy framework, and undertook post-draft policy validation workshops. Following the historic milestone the Council of Ministers approved recently the draft Transitional Justice Policy. The implementation of the Policy was officially launched on Thursday in the presence of Chief Government Whip Tesfaye Beljige, Justice Minister Gedion Timothewos, senior government officials and foreign dignitaries at a ceremony held at the Skylight Hotel. Justice Minister Gedion Timothewos said on the occasion that the transitional justice policy would be the best solution to Ethiopia's long time problems. The minister extended gratitude to stakeholders that have provided very critical support to the process. “As you have seen, the consultations were very extensive. We have conducted about 80 consultations and workshops. This required a lot of resources and your financial support has been very critical. We are very grateful for that.” There have also been renowned international experts who have attended the two international workshops organized to solicit input in the preparation of the policy, he added. “We will count upon your support and assistance, but at the same time, we would like to reiterate one of the important principles enshrined in the policy, which is national ownership,” he underlined. In light of this, we welcome partners who would like to support us by providing financial and technical support. “I want to make it very clear that we welcome partners, we welcome more support and advice not dictates. No court or commission will render justice in Ethiopia in foreign languages.” “Our institutions will render justice and lead this process in Afan Oromo, Tigrigna, Somaligna, Amharic, but not in foreign languages. This will be a process, run by Ethiopians for Ethiopians.” In this spirit, he called up on partners to provide support and assistance while adhering to these principles. Chief Government Whip Tesfaye Beljige said on his part that transitional justice policy is essential to fundamentally address long-standing grievances in the country.There was no comprehensive Transitional Justice Policy in the history of Ethiopia in the past, he said, adding currently, the government is introducing new ways that have not been tried in the past to resolve the problems facing the country in a sustainable manner. He reiterated that this Transitional Justice Policy should be implemented in harmony with the national context by taking the experience of other countries. Tesfay urged all stakeholders to play their active role in the realization of this policy. President of the Federal Supreme Court of Ethiopia, Tewodros Mihret said that the basic goal of the Transitional Justice Policy is to respond appropriately to the abuses and human rights violations committed in Ethiopia.He recalled that the government has already been working on setting up a group of independent professionals to prepare this policy that will bring complete and lasting peace. Establishing the National Dialogue Commission and Transitional Justice Policy are crucial institutions to ensure lasting peace in the country.  

Addis Ababa, May 9/2024(ENA) The Transitional Justice Policy that aims to oversee and execute the transitional justice process in a methodical, cohesive, and efficient manner at national level was officially launched today. The policy was launched in the presence of Chief Government Whip Tesfaye Beljige, Justice Minister Gedion Timothewos, senior government officials and foreign dignitaries at a ceremony held at the Skylight Hotel. At the ceremony, organizations and individuals, including the Transitional Justice Working Group of Experts, were given recognition for their unreserved and tireless efforts to develop the Transitional Justice Policy. Recall that the Government of Ethiopia initiated a landmark national process to develop a comprehensive transitional justice policy framework anchored on the pillars of justice, accountability, reconciliation and redress in November 2022. As part of the process, the Transitional Justice Working Group of Experts was established under the Ministry of Justice and carried out nation-wide consultations, developed a transitional justice policy framework, and undertook post-draft policy validation workshops. Following the historic milestone the Council of Ministers approved recently the draft Transitional Justice Policy. In Ethiopia, various attempts have been undertaken to tackle human rights violations, internal strife, unsubstantiated narratives, and disobedience that have transpired and persisted across various periods in the nation’s history. Nevertheless, the efforts proved ineffective in achieving a sustainable resolution as they did not adopt an all-encompassing, human rights-centered, and adaptable approach to establishing a comprehensive transitional justice system grounded in truth, reconciliation, forgiveness, and justice, underpinned by a well-defined policy framework.  

Addis Ababa, May 9/2024(ENA) Ethiopia's Non-Resident Ambassador to Hungary, Tsegab Kebebew, presented his letters of credence to President Tamás Sulyo of Hungary at a ceremony held at Sandor Palace in Budapest. According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the ambassador expressed his desire to continue developing the bilateral relations across all domains. He also commended the Hungarian government for the agreement made by the two parties to double the scholarship opportunities granted to Ethiopian students from 50 to 100. Ambassador Tsegab reiterated the firm commitment of the Government of Ethiopia to further strengthen both bilateral and multilateral relations with Hungary. President Tamás Sulyo highlighted his country's readiness to provide him with the required support in facilitating his duties.                

Addis Ababa, May 9/2024(ENA) Spokesperson of Ethiopian Foreign Affairs Ministry said visa restriction imposed by the European Union Council on Ethiopian citizens is unfair. The Spokesperson gave press conference on the main diplomatic activities over the past week and other related issues today. In his briefing, he explained the decision of the European Union Council on visa restrictions for Ethiopians, and the joint statement issued by the a few embassies in Addis Ababa. He said “a few Embassies in Addis Ababa made a joint statement last week on the occasion of World Press Day that strayed from standard diplomatic protocol.” The extraordinary growth of both new and established digital media outlets is evidence of Ethiopian government's commitment to upholding press freedom, he elaborated. The spokesperson underlined that Ethiopia welcomes constructive engagement with parties but resorting to paternalistic joint statement is unhelpful for the bilateral relations and it is discordant with acceptable diplomatic practice. Moreover, he elaborated that Ethiopia has informed the European Union Council about the visa restriction decision regarding Ethiopians stating that the decision is unfair. The council decided that people from Ethiopia will have to wait 45 days instead of 15 days for their EU visa to be processed. The restriction aims at deporting asylum seekers residing in European countries without the proper scrutiny, the spokesperson revealed. Ethiopia noted the inappropriateness the visa restriction issued by the council, he said stating that Ethiopia was working with the Union by establishing a national committee to scrutinize the situation of citizens who are returning to the country after their cases have been investigated. He expressed Ethiopia’s readiness to discuss the matter and find solutions based on international principles. Ethiopia also demands the EU to reverse the restriction, the Spokesperson added. The briefing also mentioned the participation of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, and his delegation in the International Development Association conference held in Nairobi, Kenya. The Ethiopian delegation delivered a significant message during the conference, he added. In reference to the conversation between the delegations headed by Alexandra Hill Tinoco, the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of El Salvador, and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie, Nebiyu reaffirmed El Salvador's intentions to establish an Embassy in Addis Ababa. The Spokesperson saw this as evidence that Addis Ababa is becoming a more important diplomatic hub. Speaking about the meeting between the UN Secretary-General's Special Advisor on Internal Displacement Solutions, Robert Piper, and Ambassador Mesganu Arga, the State Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Spokesperson brought up Piper's admiration for the Ethiopian government's capacity to relocate a large number of internally displaced people to their communities. The necessity of Ethiopia and the UN's cooperation was also underlined in the conversation between the two sides. The spokesperson concluded by discussing the key topics discussed at the meeting between Mesganu and Ambassador Hussain Awad, the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs for the Republic of Sudan. Ambassador Hussain expressed his belief that Ethiopia would continue to keep up its significant contribution to the overall peace process in Sudan.    

Addis Ababa, May 9/2024(ENA) A grand symposium is underway in Addis Ababa to review Ethiopia's 50-year economic, social and political legacy and the challenges transferred to the current generation. The symposium, which is organized by the Addis Ababa University, has attracted several scholars of various fields and other stakeholders. Research papers will be presented at the symposium by various prominent scholars, it was learned. Opening the symposium Addis Ababa University President Samuel Kifle noted that the University has been organizing various discussion forums of this kind focusing on key challenges and opportunities of the country. The university had organized discussion forums on the importance of National Dialogue, Ethiopia’s quest for access to sea, the implications of the victory of Adwa for national development among others, the president added. According to Samuel, the discussion forums so far conducted contribute greatly to policy making and the overall national development of the country. He explained that the university will continue to strengthen its endeavor with the objective to enhance its contribution for national development.

Addis Ababa, May 8/2024(ENA) President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan met with former President Mulatu Teshome Wirtu of Ethiopia at the Presidential Complex.   Minister of Foreign Affairs, Taye Atske Selassie has also met with his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan in Ankara.  

Addis Ababa, May 8/2024 (ENA) A photo exhibition that depicts the 120 years of bilateral relations between Ethiopia and United States opened at the National Museum in Addis Ababa today. This event promises to showcase an array of captivating photographs depicting the longstanding bilateral relationship between the United States and Ethiopia. US Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ervin Massinga said on the occasion that the exhibition serves as a testament to the enduring ties between the two nations. “Through these thoughtfully selected photographs, we celebrate the milestones and connections between our two countries in various sectors such as health, education, agriculture, and economic development. Each image serves as a reminder of the strong, resilient, long-term bonds that unite us,” he stated. According to the ambassador, opting to extend this exhibition to various venues in Addis Ababa demonstrates the dedication to accessibility and inclusivity. Ambassador Massinga pointed out that these impactful images are accessible to a diverse audience from prominent public areas to the digital domain, surpassing boundaries, touching viewers both locally and globally. Finally, he reiterated, "Let us continue to foster and strengthen the friendship between the United States and Ethiopia for countless years to come."   Tourism State Minister Sileshi Girma said that the photo exhibit showcases captivating images that captured key moments in the long, thriving relations of Ethiopia and the United States. It also marks a continuation of the 120 years anniversary celebration of the start of bilateral relations between the two countries. Today, Ethiopia is of the United States closest allies in Sub-Sahara Africa, the state minister said, adding that the countries work together in diverse areas of cooperation, including economic development, security, health care and education, among others. Moreover, Sileshi stated that the cultural and people-to-people ties between Ethiopia and the United Sates are also growing from time to time. The diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and the United States started in 1903, following the signing of a Treaty of Commerce by Emperor Menelik II and US Representative Robert P. Skinner.                

Addis Ababa, May 8/2024(ENA)- Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed urged the public to uphold peace, unity, and development in the country hand in hand. A rally in support of the reforms launched over the last six years was held at Welega Stadium in Nekemte Town. Residents, drawn from four zones of Welega participated at the rally, carrying placards, "Welega: A Land of Peace and Prosperity!"Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Speaker of the House of Peoples’ Representatives Tagese Chafo, Speaker of the House of Federation Agegnehu Teshager, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh, and Chief Administrator of the Oromia Region Shimelis Abdisa attended the event. During the occasion, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed called on the public to give utmost attention to peace, unity, and development. Upholding the peace, we have to develop our nation hand in glove, the premier stated. Mentioning that peace is the basis for everything, in the course of which, spirit of love and brotherhood will thrive, he said. By refraining from destructive actions that would have ramifications on future generations, it is imperative to embrace discussion and uphold unity, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said. Recalling the hurdles encountered prior to the reform in the sphere of economy, the premier said that outstanding economic achievements have been made following the implementation of the reforms. He highlighted Ethiopia's resilient economy which has revitalized the agriculture sector, and is transforming urban areas, and uplift the nation."There is no force that can stop us from achieving what we have begun! From our heart, we are committed to transforming our country with unwavering dedication," the prime minister reaffirmed. "I repeat my words, we will ensure Ethiopia's prosperity, preserve its unity, and make it a respected nation in Africa," Prime Minister Abiy reiterated.

Addis Ababa, May 8/2024(ENA)-State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mesganu Arga today received Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of the Sudan, Ambassador Hussein Awad Ali Mohammed, in his office. The two Ministers exchanged views on the bilateral ties of Ethiopia and the Sudan, according to Foreign Affairs Ministry. On the occasion, Sudanese Foreign Minister acknowledged Ethiopia’s significant role in Sudan's comprehensive peace-making efforts and requested Ethiopia to play its vital role based on the historical and fraternal close partnership of the two countries. Ambassador Mesganu reassured Ethiopia’s Commitment to peaceful resolution of the ongoing conflict in Sudan recalling Ethiopia’s efforts to bring peace and stability to the sisterly nation of Sudan. The State Minister further reiterated Ethiopia’s belief on an all-inclusive peace process owned by Sudanese and emphasized that all efforts should be Sudanese-led. Following his recent appointment as Foreign Minister, Hussein Awad Ali Mohammed embarked on his tour, with Ethiopia being his first destination.

Addis Ababa, May 8/2024(ENA)- A demonstration was held in Nekemte town, in the East Wollega zone of the Oromia region today to support reform activities being carried in Ethiopia. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Speaker of the House of Peoples’ Representative, Tagesse Chafo, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh, Oromia Regional President Shimelis Abdisa and other high level government officials were present at the rally. Participants of the rally gathered from four Zonal Administrations of the region at Nekemte stadium in large numbers and expressed their support and lauded the progress being made in various sectors over the past six years of the reform carried out by the government. The participants have pledged to stand by the government in the efforts to realize national prosperity.

Addis Ababa, May 8/2024(ENA)-Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed arrived in Nekemte this morning. The premier is accompanied by Speakers of the House, Tagesse Chafo, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh , Oromia Regional President Shimelis Abdisa.   The community warmly welcomed the premier and his deligation up on arrival at the newly built Nekemte airport.

Addis Ababa, May 6/2024 (ENA) Women are strongly encouraged to actively take part in the forthcoming inclusive national dialogue as they play significant role in consolidating the nation’s effort to ensure sustainable peace. Ethiopia is about to commence an inclusive national dialogue in which all stakeholders can come together and speak about key national challenges to attain a common and lasting resolution. The National Dialogue Commission is finalizing its preparations in identifying participants and discussion agendas in a meticulous process aimed at ensuring the inclusivity of the dialogue. In this regard, the Commission is working to enhance women’s participation in the dialogue taking in to account the importance of their contribution to the process. Taking this in to consideration, ENA approached three women who are from different occupations. They said women, who represent half of the total population in Ethiopia, are crucial to the successful conduct of the dialogue. They also commended the ongoing efforts of the commission to make the dialogue all inclusive. An expert of conflict situation monitoring at the Ministry of Peace, Tigest Hailemariam for her part stated that women’s participation in the national dialogue has a significant role for the success of the dialogue because women preach peace as they are the primary victims of conflicts. Tigest advised all pertinent bodies need to come around the table to discuss on their common interests and bring shared solutions instead of trying to use force. The national dialogue is the best opportunity for women to express their strong desire for peace, Tigist underlined. A lecturer at the Addis Ababa University School of Journalism and Communication, Agaredech Jemaneh said women are the embodiment of peace as they possess the ability to foster unity within the family and the community.   Appreciating the efforts being made by the commission to encourage women actively participate in the dialogue, the lecturer said women need to engage themselves in the process. Women have the potential to provide their wisdom, Agaredech stated indicating that the upcoming national dialogue is a good opportunity to find concrete solutions for the challenges the country is facing. Fatuma Hussen, head of women and youth sector at the Ethiopia Islamic Supreme Council said the national dialogue is key instrument to bring peace and sustainable development in the country stressing that women have the obligation to actively participate as they are the primary beneficiaries of sustainable peace.   She urged women to play their significant role in consolidating the nation’s effort to ensure peace by actively engaging in the process. “A woman can influence at least 4 men including her husband, brother, father and her son. If every woman can influence all these segment of the society at home not to involve in conflicts, conflict could be curtailed.” Therefore, if we maintain peace at family level, we can maintain peace at the community level, peace can be ensured at national level at large as well, she underlined.          

Addis Ababa, May 6/2024 (ENA)The outgoing Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia Zhao Zhiyuan expressed his hope for the continued deepening of the China-Ethiopia all-weather strategic partnership. A farewell ceremony was held on Sunday night at the Ethiopian Airlines VIP Lounge for the departing Chinese ambassador. High-level Ethiopian officials, including State Minister of Finance Semereta Sewasew, Oromia Region President Shimelis Abdisa, Ethiopian Federal Police Commissioner General Demelash Gebremichael and Ministry of Foreign Affairs Protocol Director General Melaku Bedada, gathered to bid farewell to the ambassador and discussed the strong ties between the two nations. In his parting remarks, the ambassador told ENA that he had worked hard to strengthening China-Ethiopia relations during his over three and half years tenure. ''Today, I am leaving for China to complete my mission. My feeling is very complicated. Everybody knows I have worked hard for Ethiopia and China—for bilateral relations—for more than three and half years.'' Ambassador Zhao emphasized his affection for Ethiopia and its people. ''I love Ethiopia. I love the people of Ethiopia. We all know that Ethiopia has great potential.'' He expressed his hope for the continued deepening of the China-Ethiopia all-weather strategic partnership. "I hope that our all-weather strategic partnership will further deepen.'' The ceremony underscored the enduring partnership between Ethiopia and China, and paves the way for continued collaboration in the years to come. He thanked the government and friends from every communities for their support to his successful work in Ethiopia. The contribution of the ambassador in strengthening the relationship between Ethiopia and China is commendable. China’s support for Ethiopia’s membership to the BRICS family is also another landmark in the longstanding relations between Ethiopia and China that decorates the ambassador’s tenure in Ethiopia. During the Ambassador’s tenure in Ethiopia, various development projects were completed with the support of the Chinese Government.            

Addis Ababa May 5/2024 (ENA) Ethiopia has observed the 83rd anniversary of the Patriots’ Victory Day around Arat Kilo in Addis Ababa where the monument to commemorate the victory and the patriots erected. The day was celebrated in the presence of President Sahle-Work Zewde, patriots, members of the National Defense Forces, representatives of the diplomatic community and government officials. In 1941 Ethiopian patriots defeated fascist Italian aggressor and maintain the territorial integrity of the country and May 5th marked as the end of Italian aggression. Patriots Victory Day is a national public holiday that marks the end of the Italian occupation and commemorates those who died during the occupation by honoring veterans of the resistance movement.  

Addis Ababa May 3/2024 (ENA) Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Ethiopia upholds the freedom of the press which must be exercised and protected within the confines of the rule of law. Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia issued a press release today on the Joint Statement released by European Union delegation and some Embassies in Addis Ababa on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day. The Ministry underlined in its statement that such a manner of conducting relations with the host state is unhelpful and discordant with acceptable bilateral diplomatic norms and practices. It said Ethiopia upholds the freedom of the press. This right must be exercised and protected within the confines of the rule of law. Ethiopia values the unprecedented growth of traditional and digital media outlets in the country demonstrating the full enjoyment of this fundamental right, it added. Ethiopia welcomes constructive engagement with partners and all stakeholders, the ministry noted stating that resorting to paternalistic joint statements is unhelpful for bilateral relations and undermines the rule of law in the country. Such a manner of conducting relations with the host state is unhelpful and discordant with acceptable bilateral diplomatic norms and practices, the Foreign Affairs Ministry of Ethiopia underscored.  

Addis Ababa May 3/2024 (ENA) Foreign Affairs Minister Taye Atske Selassie has congratulated the newly appointed South Sudanese Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Ramadan Mohammed Abdallah Goc. According to Ethiopia's Embassy in Juba, South Sudan, Taye has also expressed his firm confidence that the appointment of Ramadan Mohammed Abdallah Goc will further elevate the strategic partnership between the two sisterly countries. He also affirmed his determination to work closely on bilateral, regional and global issues of common interest. Ethiopia and South Sudan have been enjoying strong bilateral relations.  

Addis Ababa, May 2/2024 (ENA) Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Sied Muhumed Jibril, has presented his letter of credentials to the President of Iraq, Abdullatif Jemal Rashid, in a ceremony held at Salam Palace in Baghdad. On the occasion, Ambassador Sied has conveyed the good wishes of President Sahle-Work Zewde to the President of Iraq. He also underscored the existing close relations between the two countries and pledged to work towards the consolidation and strengthening of these bilateral ties in all areas with renewed vigor. The Ambassador further expressed his gratitude to the Iraqi government for its initiative to re-open its embassy in Ethiopia and expressed the readiness of the Ethiopian government to provide the necessary assistance to Iraq. President of the Republic of Iraq Abdullatif Jemal Rashid, on his part, expressed gratitude for the goodwill wishes of the Ethiopian president and stated that Iraq will continue to strengthen its bilateral and multilateral relations with Ethiopia. To ensure this, the president stated that Iraqi government will once again re-open its embassy in Ethiopia and expressed its gratitude for accepting its request to reopen its embassy in Ethiopia.  

Addis Ababa, May 1/2024 (ENA) Peace Minister Binalf Andualem said reaching consensus on major national issues is the only solution for the Ethiopia's sustainable peace and development. The minister made the remark at a training given to members of House of People's Representatives and Regional councils on nation building.   Although a national consensus is critical for sustainable peace, the ways we followed to create national consensus did not follow the right direction, he noted, adding that this prevented the country from creating the national consensus desired. According to him, it was not possible to create a lasting peace and national harmony in Ethiopia because of the political deadlock in the past. The root of Ethiopia's political and social breakdowns is focusing only on the previous bad or good stories, Binalf elaborated. Even if Ethiopia has a long history of government formation and an early civilization, the main secret of countries that are better than Ethiopia in terms of universal development is that they have learned from their past and made their future better. "While Ethiopia boasts a rich history and ancient civilization, the ability to draw lessons from history and apply them to contemporary challenges is essential for progress and development." This is what countries that have rapidly advanced in terms of universal development have often done by leveraging their historical experiences, both positive and negative, to inform their policies and strategies, the minister pointed out. He stressed that there should be continuous dialogue and mutual understanding among the entire society of the country in order to ensure lasting peace and development in Ethiopia. Exerting maximum effort to ensure consensus on key issues pertaining to national identity, national interest, and national values is crucial, according to Binalf. This emphasis underscores the importance of uniting the populace around shared values and aspirations, which are essential for fostering social cohesion and driving collective progress. The minister believes that Ethiopia can strengthen its foundation for sustainable development and prosperity by prioritizing consensus-building on these fundamental pillars of nationhood. In this regard, legislative bodies play a crucial role in nation-building, primarily through the enactment of laws and policies that shape the social, economic, and political landscape of a nation. Binalf underscored that the development and growth of a country are guaranteed through continuous progress, driven by leadership at all levels and the cooperation of the people. The half-day training was organized by the Ministry of Peace.  

Addis Ababa, April 30/2024 (ENA) Ethiopia will intensify its role in the effort to ensuring peace, development and democracy in Africa by inculcating efficient leadership in the continent, African Leadership Excellence Academy (AFLEX) President Zadig Abraha said. The president made the remark at a discussion forum held with ambassadors and diplomats of African countries based in Addis Ababa today. Zadig highlighted the activities of the academy aimed at producing efficient leaders not only in Ethiopia but also in other African countries as a whole. Noting the increasing interest to attend the training at AFLEX, he revealed that more than 120 leaders of African countries have received training over the past two months alone. According to the president, Ethiopia’s crucial and longstanding role in ensuring sustainable peace, development and democracy in Africa has been intensified by promoting efficient leadership in the continent. Several Africans have now been receiving training at AFLEX. To realize its mission, the academy has been reorganized in a modernized way under the initiation of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed with a view to providing training for capable leaders. Participants of the forum hailed the objective of African Leadership Excellence Academy (AFLEX) stressing the need for support to the effort.          

Addis Ababa April 30/2024 (ENA) The Commissioner of the Ethiopian Federal Police, General Demelash Gebre Michael, held a fruitful discussion with General Riccardo Galleata, the Deputy Commander of the Italian Carabinieri. The discussions revolved around matters of shared interest and concern, it was learned. Notably, a delegation from the Ethiopian police, led by Commissioner General Demelash Gebremichael, traveled to Rome, Italy in July 2022. During that visit, Demelash held constructive discussions with Commander General Theo Luzzi, the leader of the Italian Police institution. Building upon the agreements reached during their previous encounter, General Riccardo Galeatea, the Deputy Commander of Italian Carabinieri, paid a visit to the Federal Police of Ethiopia today. General Galeeta conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to the Ethiopian Federal Police for the warm reception they extended to him. The discussions centered on the effective implementation of the agreements outlined in the Rome Agreement, as well as the ongoing efforts to further enhance and strengthen their cooperation. A key highlight of their conversation was the joint commitment to extend support and provide professional assistance in various areas. This includes collaborating on police patrol boats to ensure the security of the Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, fostering capacity building through leadership training and the advancement of forensic science, enhancing VIP protection services, and contributing resources to the development of the Forensic Science Institute, which is currently being constructed at the Ethiopian Police University campus.   Furthermore, information obtained from the Federal Police indicates that both law enforcement agencies have firmly agreed to combat organized cross-border crimes, particularly human trafficking. This will be achieved through a comprehensive approach that emphasizes enhanced coordination and cooperation between the two countries. The meeting between the two sides marks a significant step forward in strengthening bilateral ties and fostering mutual collaboration in the realm of law enforcement.