Addis Ababa, November 4, 2025 (ENA) – Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, met with Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France, at the Quai d’Orsay in Paris. The Ministers discussed bilateral cooperation and regional issues of mutual interest.

Addis Ababa, November 4, 2025 (ENA) – The bilateral cooperation between Ethiopia and Russia is growing to higher levels in all spheres, Russia's Ambassador Evgeny Terekhin told ENA. The Ambassador noted that Ethiopia and Russia have been enjoying a robust bilateral relationship across various domains, including politics, economics, technology, and science. Emphasizing on the political relations between the two nations, he cited the dialogues between President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on four occasions in recent years as focused on deepening and strengthening bilateral cooperation. According to him, the political relationship between Ethiopia and Russia extends beyond the interactions of their leaders. It also encompasses a strong partnership between their respective parliaments, notably the speakers of the House of Federation and the House of People's Representatives. Furthermore, interparty cooperation is thriving as the leading political parties in both nations work to strengthen their strategic alliances and collaborate towards common objectives, Ambassador Terekhin stated. Moreover, Ethiopia and Russia are actively expanding their relations in all possible directions, with a primary focus on enhancing economic ties, emphasizing the remarkable progress in bilateral trade that has already surpassed the total for the previous year within just six months of this year. "I should say this year we have already reached at a very inspiring results; for instance, in six months time our bilateral trade have surpass the total result of the previous year." Efforts are also being made to extend cooperation beyond trade, particularly in the realm of technology, the Ambassador pointed out, elaborating that a significant aspect of this collaboration lies in the development of nuclear energy. "In technology and science and science sphere, I should first of all mention our cooperation in the development of nuclear energy sphere. We have had a number of agreements which provides us with a possibility to develop our mutual cooperation in such a modern sphere as nuclear energy." The establishment of several agreements aimed at mutual cooperation in this crucial sector is essential for the future, he added. During the meeting between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and President Vladimir Putin at the recent Russian Atomic Week in Moscow, a significant milestone was achieved with the adoption of an action plan for the construction of a nuclear power plant in Ethiopia, Ambassador Terekhin recalled. The Ambassador underscored that it is difficult to find any sphere where the nations do not cooperate, stressing the bilateral relations between the two countries are comprehensive, encompassing a wide range of sectors. "So, frankly speaking, it will be very difficult to find any sphere in which we don’t cooperate, particularly our bilateral relation and cooperation is whole scale and it is comprising all areas."

Addis Ababa, November 4, 2025 (ENA) – Ethiopia's claim to sea access is a matter of protecting national interest that is legally and historically accepted, Senior Ambassador Tiruneh Zena told the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA). Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in the recent regular meeting of the House of People's Representatives explained that Ethiopia's claim to access the sea is based on legal, historical, geographical, and economic factors. He pointed out that the struggle to reclaim the coastline lost over 30 years ago will not require another 30 years to take back. The Prime Minister explained that the way Ethiopia lost its seaport had no legal or institutional basis and was damaging to the national interest. He stated that the way Ethiopia lost its seaport was not decided by the people or the government, raising the question of who made such a significant decision. The manner in which Ethiopia was cut off from its seaport lacks a legal or institutional basis, the premier stressed. In an exclusive interview, Ambassador Tiruneh said the loss of Ethiopia’s access to the Red Sea is an issue without legal and historical legitimacy. Despite owning access to the Red Sea throughout its history before the 1991, Ethiopia was shut off from the sea due to the conspiracy of historical enemies, he noted. According to Ambassador Tiruneh, these traitors, acting against Ethiopia's national interest, gave away something as important as the Red Sea without consulting the public. Ethiopia's exclusion from the Red Sea occurred at a time when no government chosen by the people was in place, marking a serious violation of international law, he emphasized. For him, the current issue of Ethiopia's rightful claim is about protecting national interest, being fair to everyone and involving the decision of the public at large. The way to regain control of the sea access has historical basis, the Ambassador said. He further praised the government for doing a great job with its thoughtful diplomatic efforts to regain ownership of the sea. He stressed that Ethiopia had been in control and worked alongside others at the sea since the Aksumite kingdom, helping to maintain peace and security in the Red Sea area. The Red Sea area has now become a hub for terrorists and has caused troubles that threaten peace and security in the region due to plots by those who wish to harm Ethiopia, the Ambassador explained. He stated that the answer to the question of ownership Ethiopia’s sea access must be resolved not only to defend national interest but also to ensure regional safety and secure meaningful international benefits. Ambassador Tiruneh urged the Ethiopian people, neighboring countries, and people around the world to continue supporting a fair resolution to the important issue of Ethiopia’s access to the Red Sea.

Addis Ababa, November 3, 2025 (ENA) – Ethiopia and France have expressed their keenness to strengthen their bilateral relations mainly in economic cooperation. The two nations reaffirmed this during a bilateral meeting in Paris on the margins of the EU–Ethiopia Investment Conference. Ahmed Shide, Minister of Finance, held a constructive bilateral meeting with Nicolas Forissier, Minister Delegate for Foreign Trade and Economic Attractiveness of the French Republic. According to the ministry’s social media post, the discussions focused on strengthening the bilateral economic cooperation and promoting increased French investment in Ethiopia. Both sides reaffirmed the longstanding partnership and mutual commitment to advancing sustainable and inclusive growth. The dialogue covered a wide range of areas of shared interest, including industrial development, renewable energy, infrastructure, agro-processing, and digital transformation, it was noted. Minister Ahmed also expressed appreciation for France’s continued support for the country’s development efforts and its leadership as Chair of Ethiopia’s Official Creditors Committee under the G20 Common Framework for Debt Treatment. He also acknowledged France’s support through multilateral institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. The Minister further briefed the French delegation on the significant progress achieved under Ethiopia’s Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda, which aims to build a resilient, competitive, and green economy. According to the minister, the Government is working to enhance the investment climate and facilitate greater international participation through transparent policies and institutional reforms. “Ethiopia and France enjoy a historic and multifaceted relationship grounded in mutual respect and cooperation,” stated Ahmed. “Our government highly values France’s continued engagement and looks forward to deepening economic ties that support Ethiopia’s sustainable development aspirations.” Representatives of the French Ministry of Foreign Trade commended Ethiopia’s ongoing economic reforms and expressed France’s readiness to strengthen cooperation through enhanced trade facilitation, private sector engagement, and investment partnerships. Both sides agreed to continue the dialogue during the forthcoming official visit of the French Minister to Ethiopia in May 2026. The meeting took place in the context of the EU–Ethiopia Investment Conference, a high-level forum aimed at reinforcing the strategic partnership between Ethiopia and the European Union and at mobilizing quality investment to support Ethiopia’s economic transformation.

Addis Ababa, November 3, 2025 (ENA) –The Ministry of Irrigation and Lowlands described the newly proposed IGAD Irrigation Strategy as a critical measure for enhancing food security and sustainable water management across the region. A three-day regional validation meeting for the strategy is currently underway in Addis Ababa. In his opening remarks, Yared Mulat, Lead Executive Officer for Irrigation Projects Study and Design at the Ministry, emphasized the pressing challenges faced by IGAD member states, particularly the adverse effects of frequent droughts. Yared stressed that the adoption of sustainable irrigation practices is not merely an option but a necessity, especially in light of rapid population growth and escalating food demands. He added that the current agricultural situation poses significant risks to the region's food security: over 75 percent of farmers rely on rain-fed agriculture, which occupies only 7 percent of the IGAD region's land, and irrigated agriculture contributes less than 2 percent to total production. "Advancing irrigation in our agriculture sector is the most direct path to improving agricultural productivity, securing rural livelihoods, and reducing poverty," he stated. The commitment to sustainable agricultural water management was reaffirmed at the highest levels during a 2019 summit where African leaders underscored the urgency of prioritizing irrigation development in line with continental frameworks such as the AU Agenda 2063 and the Malabo Declaration. In this regard, Ethiopia has been at the forefront of these efforts, aligning its national strategies with the broader objectives for irrigation development, he noted. He stated that Ethiopia's national strategies including the Ten Years Development Plan and the National Smallholder Irrigation and Drainage Strategy, place a strong emphasis on agricultural water management aligned with the AU’s four key development pathways for irrigation. The Ethiopian government has implemented robust programs focused on soil and water conservation, rainwater harvesting, and watershed management to mitigate climate-related vulnerabilities, he noted. According to Yared, Ethiopia is heavily investing in small-scale and household irrigation projects to ensure that every farmer has access to at least one reliable water source for either supplementary or full irrigation. This drive aims to significantly enhance agricultural productivity while simultaneously advancing large, medium, and small irrigation schemes across the country. He noted that initiatives such as Irrigated Wheat Production, Irrigated Rice Production, and the Green Legacy Initiative are already yielding transformative impacts that resonate beyond national borders. The lead executive director also indicated that given Africa's vast untapped resources, there is significant potential for collaborative regional irrigation frameworks to foster a more productive and resilient future. He pointed to the ongoing validation workshop for the IGAD Irrigation Strategy as a crucial step toward promoting investment in irrigation and ensuring sustainable water access for both agricultural and human needs. On his part, IGAD Economic Cooperation and Regional Integration Director, Mohyeldeen Eltohami emphasized on the region's ongoing challenges include inadequate water resources and poor crop productivity. The director reiterated the need for effective water management to meet both agricultural and non-agricultural demands. He said that IGAD irrigation strategy is a response to the irrigation infrastructure development and agricultural water management challenges. In this respect, the IGAD Irrigation Strategy would foster investment in irrigation and ensure sustainable water access, thereby enhancing food production and regional food security, he added. Underscoring a collaborative effort to address food insecurity and promote sustainable water management in the IGAD region, the director noted that the validation workshop on IGAD Irrigation strategy would enable to gather valuable inputs to strengthen the draft strategy and develop an implementation plan for individual member states.  

Addis Ababa, November 2, 2025 (ENA) – The Ministry of Industry has affirmed that Ethiopia's rapid economic growth has been creating significant opportunities for the manufacturing sector. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed while addressing at the 2nd regular session of the 5th year of the House of People's Representatives (HPR), where he highlighted that major projects are being designed to realize the country’s economic. The Premier detailed that through the Homegrown Macroeconomic Reform Agenda, systems have been established to leverage the country's resources for diversified economic development, enabling epoch-making success, which is expected to empower Ethiopia to register double-digit economic growth in the current fiscal year. In an interview with ENA, State Minister of Industry Tarekegn Bululta affirmed that the industrial sector’s growth rate has risen to above double digits, which can help substantially increase the sector's contribution to domestic product growth. Tarekegn further stated that the manufacturing industry is recording improved growth in import substitution, attracting investment, and other key areas, attributing the sector's success and rapid structural transformation to the focused direction set by the government. Manufacturing industry heads interviewed by ENA also acknowledged government's specific focus on the sector that has been bringing about substantial change. Tsega Debebe, Manager of Boom Manufacturing PLC, praised the government’s encouraging attention to the manufacturing sector. According to the manager, although his company was established two years ago, primarily produces refrigerators for domestic use, its local production is contributing to import substitution by replacing previously imported products leveraging from the government-created opportunities. Similarly, Biru Irtu, Corporate Director of HK Business Group PLC, on his part stated that his company is contributing to foreign currency savings through import substitution. The company specializes in manufacturing plastic formworks for construction, effectively replacing previously imported construction materials. The Ministry has provided special attention to manufacturers, helping them overcome previous challenges and enabling them to become more competitive. In the 2017 Ethiopian fiscal year, the industrial sector registered a 13 percent growth rate, contributing 3.7 percent to the overall Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth.

Addis Ababa, November 2, 2025 (ENA) – The Ethiopian Embassy in France has emphasized that Ethiopia and the European Union (EU) Investment Forum will further deepen partnership and unlock sustainable growth. The Ethiopia-European Union Investment Forum will convene in Paris on November 3, 2025, bringing together Ethiopia, France, the EU, leading European corporations, and financial institutions to significantly deepen partnerships and foster sustainable growth. In a press release sent to ENA, the Embassy emphasized the importance of the event. The high-level forum, organized and hosted by MEDEF International, France’s largest business federation, in partnership with the European Commission, aims to unlock new investment opportunities across strategic sectors including aviation, renewable energy, transport, infrastructure, logistics, and digital, AI and telecommunications. Recognizing Ethiopia’s rapid economic transformation, strong reform momentum, and strategic position as a gateway to East Africa, participants will explore ways to deepen trade and investment linkages. The forum will leverage the EU’s Global Gateway initiative to support sustainable and inclusive growth, it stated. Foreign Minister Gedeon Timotheos noted that the Forum "marks a pivotal step in a shared journey, bringing Europe and Ethiopia together to shape a future of innovation, infrastructure, and inclusive growth." Minister of Finance Ahmed Shide underscored Ethiopia's commitment to reform: “Through our Home-Grown Economic Reform Agenda and Ten-Year Development Plan, we are building a more open, resilient, and competitive economy. We see the European private sector as a key partner in realizing this vision and driving sustainable investment across critical sectors.” Philippe Gautier, CEO of MEDEF International, stated that European businesses and institutions "recognize Ethiopia’s potential, not only as one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies, but as a partner in building the green, digital, and transport infrastructure of tomorrow." The Paris Forum will also serve as a key preparatory event for the upcoming Africa–EU Conference, scheduled to be held in Kenya in April 2026. This reinforces the shared commitment to strategic partnership between Africa and Europe. Ethiopia and the European Union have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening trade, investment, and economic cooperation under the Global Gateway initiative. According to the press release, the Ethiopia–European Investment Forum reflects this growing momentum, providing a dedicated platform to mobilize private-sector investment and forge sustainable partnerships for mutual prosperity.

Addis Ababa, November 1, 2025 (ENA) – Scholars from Watchmo University have asserted that Ethiopia's recently launched and under-construction national mega projects signify a crucial stride in the nation's journey toward renewal and development. Following the GERD's completion, the inauguration of the Ogaden Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Project in the Somali Region, designed for 111 million liters annually, underscores the government’s sustained commitment to transformative infrastructure initiatives. The Ethiopian government has announced ambitious plans for the current fiscal year to construct several large-scale facilities, including a nuclear power plant, a fertilizer factory, an oil refinery, and a new international airport for Ethiopian Airlines. Scholars at Watchmo University told ENA that these mega-projects are vital for accelerating Ethiopia’s economic growth and strengthening national renewal. Dr. Getahun Abera of the Political Science and International Relations Department emphasized that the successful completion of the GERD serves as proof of concept. "The GERD has shown that Ethiopians can achieve major development goals through their own efforts," he stated. He added that the newly announced projects are a continuation of this spirit, confirming that “Ethiopia’s journey toward recovery is unstoppable.” He argues these initiatives will not only help restore Ethiopia's past glory but also enhance its capacity for negotiation, regional cooperation, and self-reliance. While acknowledging the country's historical struggle to utilize its resources due to various constraints, he noted that the government's commitment to these projects demonstrates a clear and practical commitment to transforming the country. Adding to the academic endorsement, Professor Mulualem Hailemariam, also from Watchmo University’s Department of Political Science and International Relations, praised the government’s resolve to advance large-scale development despite prevailing challenges. Professor Mulualem emphasized that the impact of the announced mega-projects, including the nuclear plant, fertilizer factory, oil refinery, and new airport, will be transformative beyond domestic economics. “These mega projects will shape Ethiopia’s future and elevate its international standing,” he argued. The Professor also stressed that the unity and collaboration demonstrated during the construction of the GERD must serve as the model for the implementation of all subsequent projects. He delivered a strong call for national cohesion emphasizing that there should be no division when it comes to national development and interests among Ethiopians. He also urged the current generation to recognize their responsibility to safeguard national unity and ensure these critical projects are completed on time.

By Gezmu Edecha For thousands of years, the mighty Abay River has flowed through the heart of Africa, carrying with it not just life-giving water, the soil, minerals and above all the aspirations and destinies of millions of Ethiopians. Today, Abay River is generating light at Guba, Ethiopia’s Benishanul-Gumuz region.The previous era of Egyptian domination on independent African nation’s destiny has closed, and a new era of African self-determination is beginning to emerge. Egypt has showed open hostility to Ethiopia in the pretext of GERD would stop water flowing from downstream states. This is untrue. However, the centuries-old strategic hostility to Ethiopia is founded upon Egypt's adamant determination to maintain an absolute monopoly of the river's flow. The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is not the cause of this hostility. Throughout history, Egypt has demonstrated utmost efforts to doom Ethiopia forever. All covert and overt conspiracies were (are) bent on destabilizing Ethiopia and disrupting the country from making headway. Despite contributing over 86 percent of the Nile Water, Egypt has been conspiring against Ethiopia. History records that Egypt and Sudan partitioned the Nile waters for centuries without allowing Ethiopia to utilize a bucket of water from Abay River. Worse, Egypt has been waging direct or indirect offensive, by providing trainings, ammunitions, logistics to violent groups, to destabilize Ethiopia. Egypt has been working assiduously to impose its coercion over Ethiopia for decades, transforming its ancient hostility into a functional tool for halting Ethiopian progress and making the nation increasingly poor and weak. Egypt's obstructionist role is long and emanates from hostility. Egypt lobbied international financial institutions for decades so that they would not finance Ethiopia's major development schemes. Accordingly, major irrigation, electricity, and water infrastructure projects were deprived of international financing.This long-running economic warfare was designed to keep Ethiopia impoverished, unstable, and incapable of exercising its resource rights. Cairo's policies also went beyond economic coercion. Egypt was actively involved in making Ethiopia weak. Egypt has been playing destructive role in the Horn of Africa. Cairo provided support to various rebel movements to disrupt Ethiopia’s development undertaking. With the GERD completed, Egypt has escalated tension in the Horn of Africa. Its interference in Sudan has resulted grave consequences to the Sudanese people. When Ethiopia laid the foundation for the construction of GERD in 2011, it was not just building Africa's largest hydroelectric project but it was declaring that time has come to Ethiopia to utilize its resources independently of others. Moreover, the GERD represents something far more profound, the natural right of African countries to develop their own resources for their own people. Egypt's response was both immediate and predictable. Cairo exercised every means at its disposal to strangle the project. However, Ethiopians vigilantly rallied behind GERD, achieving the project to even become an even more powerful symbol of African self-reliance. Egypt's attempts to strangle the GERD only strengthened Ethiopian resolve. The argument that the GERD is a threat to Egypt is an unsubstantiated claim used to mask its hatred to Ethiopia. The volume of water lost to evaporation in Egypt's desert reservoirs each year exceeds what Ethiopia needs for development. Lake Nasser alone loses more water to evaporation each year than all of Ethiopia's planned dam projects combined would divert. The real threat to Egypt's water security is not Ethiopia's inevitable development; it is Egypt's own inefficiency and colonial mindset. Present-day Ethiopia is not the weak nation Egypt has sought to be for decades. Ethiopia is rising. The GERD is already generating electricity, inspiring African nations to follow suit. The time for ancient enmity and colonial-mindset of hegemony is over. Egypt must see the shift and choose cooperation, not confrontation. The way forward is cooperation; not aggression. Note: The views expressed in this op-ed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official stance or policy of ENA.

Addis Ababa, November 1, 2025 (ENA) – Romania is committed to collaborating in investment and economic cooperation with Ethiopia as the country has opened up and a different environment is created, Romania’s Ambassador Lulia Pataki said. Ethiopia's transformative economic reform, launched in 2019 with the Homegrown Economic Reform agenda, involves macroeconomic and structural changes aimed at fostering the nation’s economy. Key successes of the economic reform include strengthening private sector participation, improving the business climate, and achieving macroeconomic stability. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Romania's Ambassador to Ethiopia, Lulia Pataki, noted that Ethiopia is opening up its economy for investment, and it is time for Romania to come in and further push on enhancing economic diplomacy. “Ethiopia is opening up. So there will be this different environment for investment and also for economic cooperation; and we have that commitment and we are working on it,” she added. Speaking about cooperation in digital transformation, the Ambassador said Ethiopia has a strategy extended till 2030; and Romania is one of the leaders in ICT in Europe. Ethiopia's digital transformation, guided by the "Digital Ethiopia 2025" strategy, is progressing through infrastructure development, e-government services, and financial inclusion initiatives. The strategy, which is a successor to the initial "Digital Ethiopia 2025" plan, sets more ambitious goals for the nation's digital transformation journey through 2030. The former strategy saw significant growth in digital financial services, the launch of a national digital ID system, and the digitization of numerous government services. The Ambassador further stated Romania’s commitment to advancing the longstanding relations in the education sector between Ethiopia and Romania. Ambassador Pataki elaborated that there were many Ethiopian students learning on scholarships in Romania and there is an opportunity to focus on education. Such experience will offer Ethiopian students and professors to learn from each other, to learn about Romania and learn more about Ethiopia. She also commended the longstanding cultural, traditional, and religious connection between the two countries. Diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Romania began on July 2, 1957. Romania had previously supported Ethiopia's cause in the League of Nations during Italy's invasion threat in the 1930s.

Addis Ababa, November 1, 2025 (ENA) – Ethiopia's quest for sea access should be primarily negotiated by the parties directly involved, mutual agreements, and open dialogue, Russia's Ambassador Evgeny Terekhin told ENA. Russia's Ambassador to Ethiopia, Evgeny Terekhin recognized the importance of sea access for every nation. Nearly one-third of the UN's member states lack coastal access due to various challenges, however, many of these issues are being addressed and viable solutions are emerging, he noted. "We understand the need for sea access for any country and solutions are emerging for addressing the challenges.” The Ambassador stated that the resolution of Ethiopia's quest for sea access should be primarily negotiated by the parties directly involved, grounded in international law, mutual agreements, and open dialogue. "This issue should be decided first of all between the parties involved in the issue on the basis of international law, agreements and conversations," he stressed. Therefore, constructive dialogue and cooperation remain vital in addressing this issue of securing sea access for Ethiopia. Recall that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed recently told members of the parliament: "We have spoken to the US, China, Russia, Europe, and Africa. AEthiopia's quest for Red Sea access is inevitable, we give priority for peace and dialogue; plead with them to mediate us and offer us solution.” The manner in which Ethiopia lost its access to the Red Sea lacked legal background without the involvement cabinet decision, parliament approval or referendum of the Ethiopian people, the Prime Minister emphasized. Underscoring the urgency of regaining access to the Red Sea, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the government's position of pursue the issue through legal and peaceful dialogue.

Addis Ababa, November 1, 2025 (ENA) – Cultural exchange and building bridges between Ethiopia and Russia can foster understanding and cooperation between the two countries, Russian Ambassador to Ethiopia Evgeny Terekhin said. Russian Ambassador Evgeny Terekhin, along with staff members from the Russian Embassy and invited guests celebrated Russia’s National Unity Day last night at the Russian Center for Science and Culture in Addis Ababa. The event featured exhibitions showcasing artistic works created by talented Ethiopian artists and writers, highlighting the rich cultural exchange between the two nations. During the occasion, Ambassador Terekhin reflected on Russia's historical struggles with foreign aggression and internal strife, noting the unity among the Russian people was pivotal in overcoming these adversities. "For many years, Russia faced significant challenges, but through unity, we managed to prevail," Ambassador Terekhin noted. The ambassador added that this historical perspective serves as a reminder that shared goals and mutual support can lead to resilience in the face of difficulties. The ambassador elaborated on the multifaceted nature of unity, highlighting that it encompasses various factors, including friendly relationships among people. In addition to interpersonal relationships, Terekhin underscored the importance of cultural ties, humanitarian relations, and economic collaboration between states, asserting that these elements are vital for fostering a sense of unity that can address broader societal challenges. The interplay between different cultures and economies creates a robust framework for peace and security, further emphasizing the need for unity in a globalized world. Moreover, the ambassador stated that the event did not only celebrate Russian Unity Day but also served as a reminder of the potential for collaboration between Russia and Ethiopia through showcasing Ethiopian artistic talents alongside Russian traditions. The celebration highlighted the richness of cultural exchange and the importance of building bridges between nations, he underlined, emphasizing that such interactions can foster understanding and cooperation. Ambassador Terekhin underscored that regardless of the challenges faced, unity among peoples remains a fundamental principle for achieving lasting solutions.

Addis Ababa, November 1, 2025 (ENA) – In October 2025, the Prime Minister undertook a series of national and international engagements focused on infrastructure development, rural transformation, governance reform, and diplomatic cooperation. Here is a brief recap of the past month: 𝙊𝙣 𝙐𝙧𝙗𝙖𝙣 𝘿𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙡𝙤𝙥𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙞𝙜𝙣 𝘿𝙞𝙧𝙚𝙘𝙩 𝙄𝙣𝙫𝙚𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 A defining highlight of the month was the laying of the foundation stone for the urea fertilizer plant, a landmark project developed through a partnership between Ethiopian Investment Holdings and the Dangote Group. With an annual production capacity of three million tons, the plant will utilize natural gas from the Calub gas fields, transported through a 108-kilometer pipeline. This project is a cornerstone of Ethiopia’s strategy to achieve fertilizer self-sufficiency and enhance agricultural productivity. In the Somali Region, the Prime Minister also inaugurated the Gode Oil Refinery, developed by Golden Concord Group Limited (GCL). The refinery, designed to process 3.5 million tons of crude oil and condensate per year from the Hilala oil field, represents a significant step in Ethiopia’s path toward energy independence. Complementing these milestones, the Prime Minister inaugurated the first phase of the Ogaden Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) Project in Calub. The facility, with an annual production capacity of 111 million litres and the ability to generate 1,000 megawatts of energy, strengthens Ethiopia’s industrial base while contributing critical inputs to fertilizer production and energy generation. During his visit to Jigjiga in the Somali Region, the Prime Minister observed the city’s rapid transformation since his last visit in January 2025. Thousands of new housing units are under construction, and corridor development projects are visibly enhancing urban well-being. He lauded the Dine for Generations Project, nearing completion in the Somali Region, for unlocking new opportunities in tourism and stimulating regional economic growth. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, accompanied by members of the Prosperity Party Executive Committee, visited the corridor development project extending from Sar Bet to German Square, encompassing the Garment Factory and the Furi area. Spanning 589 hectares, it is the second-largest urban corridor after Kazanchis. The project features 16.5 kilometers of asphalt roads, 33 kilometers of pedestrian walkways, plazas, sports and recreation facilities, riverbank development, and over 1,100 commercial shops. The initiative embodies Ethiopia’s broader vision of creating modern, livable, and economically vibrant cities. 𝙊𝙣 𝙍𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙡 𝙏𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙨𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝘼𝙜𝙧𝙞𝙘𝙪𝙡𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙡 𝙈𝙤𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙯𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 Advancing his government’s rural development agenda, the Prime Minister presided over the handover of model rural villages constructed through the Rainy Season Voluntary Scheme in the Halaba, Kembatta, Hadiya, and Silte zones. Each home in these Rural Corridor Villages is equipped with solar power, biogas systems, sanitation facilities, and animal shelters, significantly improving hygiene, comfort, and productivity for rural families. These model villages mark a new chapter in Ethiopia’s mission to raise rural living standards and promote sustainable livelihoods. The Prime Minister encouraged regional leaders to expand these initiatives, setting a target of 100 new houses per zone by next year. During his visit to the East Shewa Zone of the Oromia Region, the Prime Minister also reviewed the rainy season wheat harvest and launched summer wheat production activities. He assessed progress in banana, papaya, and fish farming clusters, emphasizing the growing adoption of mechanized agriculture as a major driver of productivity and self-reliance. He also inaugurated the Welmel River Irrigation Development Project in Delo-Mena Woreda, Bale Zone. Once fully operational, the project will irrigate 9,687 hectares of farmland, benefiting 20,000 farming households and enhancing drought resilience, food sovereignty, and rural employment. 𝙊𝙣 𝙀𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙘 𝙂𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙣𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙈𝙖𝙘𝙧𝙤𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙤𝙢𝙞𝙘 𝙍𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙚𝙬 At the Koysha Project site, the Prime Minister convened a strategic review session with the Council of Ministers to assess the macroeconomic performance of the first 100 days of the 2018 Ethiopian Fiscal Year. The review examined achievements, challenges, and strategic priorities, highlighting Ethiopia’s sustained economic resilience amid global uncertainty. The nation’s GDP growth rate stood at 9.2 percent for the 2017 fiscal year, underscoring the success of reforms aimed at fostering inclusive and diversified growth. 𝙊𝙣 𝙅𝙪𝙙𝙞𝙘𝙞𝙖𝙡 𝙈𝙤𝙙𝙚𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙨𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝 𝘿𝙞𝙜𝙞𝙩𝙖𝙡 𝙏𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙨𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 Building on the success of the Digital 2025 Strategy, the Prime Minister announced the forthcoming Digital 2030 Strategy, focused on advancing automation and improving public service delivery. He commended the Federal Supreme Court for implementing a Smart Court System featuring automated transcription, virtual hearings, and an Integrated Case Management System that enables litigants to track cases online. Covering 24 federal branches to date, this innovation marks an important step toward transparent and accessible justice across Ethiopia. 𝙊𝙣 𝙈𝙚𝙙𝙞𝙖, 𝘾𝙪𝙡𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙚, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙏𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙢 Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed attended the launch of the pan-African media outlet Pulse of Africa, a platform he first proposed during the 35th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly in 2022. The initiative seeks to amplify African perspectives, counter negative portrayals of the continent, and strengthen African unity through shared narratives. In his remarks, the Prime Minister emphasized that Pulse of Africa marks a significant step toward ensuring that Africans tell their own stories and shape their global image. Accompanied by First Lady Zinash Tayachew and a high-level delegation of former and current leaders, the Prime Minister also visited the Bale Zone to assess key development projects that integrate natural heritage with national progress. The delegation toured the Bale Mountains National Park, one of Ethiopia’s most ecologically diverse and economically significant natural areas. The Prime Minister observed ongoing tourism developments, including the nearly completed Dinsho Lodge at the heart of the park and the Sof Omer Luxury Lodge near the Sof Omer Cave. Both projects are designed to advance Ethiopia’s Ten-Year Strategic Plan by positioning tourism as a catalyst for economic transformation. The Sof Omer Cave Development Project complements these initiatives by improving access and visitor facilities around one of the country’s most celebrated natural landmarks. The delegation also inspected the Robe–Goro–Sof Omer–GinirJunction Road Upgrading Project, a dual asphalt roadway featuring five bridges that connect the productive agricultural zones of East Bale and Bale with central Ethiopia. The upgraded route enhances regional mobility, strengthens economic integration, and improves access to major tourist destinations such as the Bale Mountains National Park and Sof Omer Cave. In addition, the Prime Minister reviewed the Weib River Flood Control Project, which regulates water flow through the cave system to ensure year-round accessibility and protect its ecosystem. He also examined tourism development efforts in the Harenna cluster, including the construction of the Rira Eco Lodge, new viewpoints, restaurants, and coffee facilities along the routes leading to Tulu Dimtu, the park’s highest peak. These initiatives aim to expand sustainable tourism, create local employment, and showcase the natural and cultural richness of the Bale region. The visit concluded at the Fincha Habera Waterfall, where the delegation explored the surrounding landscape, home to the Ethiopian Red Fox, diverse birdlife, and striking geological formations such as the Rafu rock pinnacles. The area, which recently revealed a newly discovered cave system, will soon feature a glamping site designed to promote eco-friendly tourism. Reflecting on the visit, Prime Minister Abiy highlighted Ethiopia as a land of abundance and opportunity, urging citizens to safeguard and build upon the nation’s natural and human wealth for future generations. The delegation collectively reaffirmed the importance of stewardship, unity, and visionary development in shaping Ethiopia’s sustainable and prosperous future. 𝙋𝙖𝙧𝙡𝙞𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙮 𝙀𝙣𝙜𝙖𝙜𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙉𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝘿𝙞𝙨𝙘𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚 Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, in his recent address to Ethiopia’s Parliament, highlighted the country’s substantial progress in economic reform, diversification, and infrastructure development. He noted that Ethiopia’s shift from an agriculture-dependent economy toward industrial and service growth has yielded impressive results, citing rapid agricultural expansion, record-high export revenues, and increased foreign reserves. Major investments in green initiatives, transport infrastructure, and energy projects are transforming productivity and sustainability, while prudent debt management and targeted subsidies have stabilized inflation. He emphasized the government’s focus on strengthening institutional capacity, expanding digitalization, training millions of youth in coding, and modernizing service delivery through nationwide one-stop centers. On peace and governance, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to stability, dialogue, and national unity, warning against both internal and external actors seeking to destabilize the country. He stressed that the only viable path for Ethiopia is peaceful political transition and democratic consolidation. Looking ahead to the upcoming national election, he assured Parliament of the government’s readiness to ensure a fair and inclusive process. On foreign relations, he reiterated Ethiopia’s right to equitable use of the Nile waters and called for cooperative engagement with neighboring countries. Addressing the Red Sea question, he described it as a legitimate historical and economic concern that Ethiopia intends to pursue through dialogue and mutual development, underscoring that the nation’s growth is intertwined with regional prosperity and peace. 𝙊𝙣 𝘿𝙞𝙥𝙡𝙤𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙘 𝙀𝙣𝙜𝙖𝙜𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙍𝙚𝙜𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡 𝘾𝙤𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 On the international stage, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed led Ethiopia’s delegation to the 24th Summit of the COMESA Authority of Heads of State and Government in Nairobi, Kenya, held under the theme “Leveraging Digitalization to Deepen Regional Value Chains for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth.” Addressing the Summit, he underscored that Africa’s digital transformation offers a unique opportunity to rewrite its economic narrative and strengthen continental integration. He affirmed Ethiopia’s readiness to collaborate with regional partners to advance a shared digital future. In separate diplomatic meetings, the Prime Minister held discussions with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of the Federal Republic of Somalia on bilateral and regional matters of mutual interest, and with Dr. Constantinos Kombos, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus, to strengthen political and economic cooperation between their two nations. 𝙊𝙣 𝙏𝙖𝙭𝙥𝙖𝙮𝙚𝙧 𝙍𝙚𝙘𝙤𝙜𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 Governance 𝙍𝙚𝙛𝙤𝙧𝙢 At the 7th Annual Loyal Taxpayers Recognition Ceremony, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed celebrated outstanding taxpayers for their contributions to Ethiopia’s development. He reaffirmed that tax revenues are being invested in vital public goods and infrastructure projects and urged all citizens to uphold transparency and reject corruption. The Prime Minister emphasized that collective integrity and accountability are essential to building a just and prosperous nation. Throughout October 2025, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s decisive leadership and forward-looking initiatives across industry, agriculture, urban renewal, justice, and diplomacy demonstrated Ethiopia’s unwavering commitment to inclusive development and national progress.

Addis Ababa, October 31, 2025 (ENA) –The House of People’s Representatives (HPR) has described Ethiopia’s exclusion from the Red Sea as a historical mistake. Deputy Speaker of the HPR, Lomi Bedo, told ENA that denying Ethiopia access to the sea is “unfair and a historical mistake that undermines the nation’s political independence.” She emphasized that the issue of sea access goes beyond trade, asserting that it is directly tied to Ethiopia’s sovereignty and long-term national interests. According to Lomi, the loss of direct sea access is not merely an economic issue but also poses challenges to Ethiopia’s policy autonomy and national sovereignty. She noted that the government is pursuing the matter through peaceful and reciprocal means, in full compliance with international law and established diplomatic procedures. “The government has adopted a peaceful and lawful approach to ensure Ethiopia’s fair use of the Red Sea,” Lomi stated, calling on citizens to support the ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at securing access to the sea. Messeret Haile, Deputy Government Whip at the HPR, affirmed that the international community recognizes Ethiopia’s legitimate right to sea access and confirmed that the country continues to pursue this goal through peaceful dialogue. Fathi Mahdi, Deputy Chairperson of the HPR Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs, also stressed that under international law, coastal states have an obligation to grant landlocked countries access to ports for trade purposes. “Ethiopia’s goal is to secure sea access through peaceful and diplomatic means,” Fathi said. “It is our right to achieve this national objective.” Deputy Speaker Lomi further stated that the HPR will continue to support the government’s diplomatic initiatives by enacting enabling legislation, strengthening parliamentary diplomacy, and reviewing relevant national policies.

Addis Ababa, October 30, 2025 (ENA) – The Prosperity Party has started conducting its annual training for senior leaders. The training will be given for the next 10 consecutive days under the theme: "Sectoral Advancement in the View of the Medemer Government." Various topics aimed at building the knowledge, skills, and capacity of the leadership will be presented during the training, it was learned. More than 2,000 senior leaders drawn from the federal and regional levels will be participating in the training. In parallel with the training, field visits to development sites will be conducted.

Addis Ababa, October 30, 2025 (ENA) – Ethiopia’s return to the Red Sea is imperative for safeguarding its economic interests and ensuring its national survival, Professor Brook Hailu Beshah said. The professor’s remarks follow the recent emphasis made by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on the centrality of the Red Sea issue to Ethiopia’s future. In his response to questions from members of the House of People's Representatives during the second regular session of the fifth parliamentary year, the PM underscored that the matter transcends mere politics, constituting a vital legal, historical, geographical, and economic question for the nation. Professor Brook Hailu Beshah, a lecturer at various universities in Ethiopia and the United States, elaborated to ENA that the manner in which Ethiopia was landlocked lacks any firm legal foundation. He highlighted that Ethiopia possesses the largest population among the world's 44 landlocked countries, making access to the sea a critical necessity. The professor elaborated that Ethiopia is not a newcomer to the Red Sea region, Ethiopian ships navigated from Persia to the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and even to India. He noted that during its era as a Red Sea power, Ethiopia maintained robust trade relations with the Roman and Greek empires. For these reasons, regaining access to the Red Sea is a crucial requirement for preserving Ethiopia's economic benefit and national existence. Citing Ethiopia's foreign policy —which is firmly rooted in cooperation, Professor Brook emphasized that the nation’s return to the Red Sea will yield multidimensional benefits for the entire region. He pointed out that 16 of the world's landlocked countries are located in Africa, further noting that Ethiopia possessed a coastline stretching over 2,000 kilometers just 34 years ago, . Drawing parallels, he mentioned that other landlocked African nations like Zimbabwe and Malawi utilize the seaport of Mozambique. Therefore, Professor Brook argued that Ethiopia's current peaceful and legal demand for sea access should be considered with goodwill by its neighboring states. According to him, there is a clear legal framework that allows Ethiopia to pursue its right to the sea, including taking the matter to the International Court of Justice, if necessary, to protect its sovereignty and survival. Professor Brook concluded by stating that no entity has the right to prevent Ethiopia from using a seaport. He also stressed that a country possessing a seaport has a corresponding obligation to cooperate with its landlocked neighbors. Ethiopia's peaceful approach has led powerful countries, among others, to acknowledge the genuine need for sea access, the professor said, adding that this recognition of Ethiopia's rightful claim, which is starting to be acknowledged by countries from Europe to the Gulf region, is a clear result of successful diplomatic efforts.

Addis Ababa, October 29, 2025 (ENA) – Ethiopian scholars have emphasized that the country’s quest to access the Red Sea is a strategic national agenda designed to protect Ethiopia’s long-term interests and rectify historical injustices. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, while responding to questions posed by members of the House of Peoples’ Representatives yesterday at the second regular session of the 5th parliamentary year, emphasized that the Red Sea issue is not merely a political matter but a legal, historical, geographical, and economic concern central to Ethiopia’s future. Mohamed Osman, President of Semera University, told ENA that the Red Sea represents international geopolitical center of gravity and the core line of peace and security in the Horn of Africa. According to the president, the Red Sea is a matter of national security and sovereignty for Ethiopia, and current efforts to correct “historic injustice” that deprived of the country’s access to the sea are both legitimate rights. Ethiopia has reached a decisive moment that reclaiming sea access has become a generational priority, he underscored. “Ethiopia should not remain a landlocked nation,” and that addressing the question of sea port ownership is essential to protecting national interests and repairing historical fractures,” he added. Dejene Yamene, International Law Scholar, on his parts, elaborated that international law and UN maritime conventions support the rationality and legitimacy of Ethiopia’s quest to access sea. The country’s historical and natural connection to its former access to the Red Sea had existed independently for centuries and should not be considered part of another country’s territorial integrity. Ethiopia has the right to review the fundamental decisions made under that agreement and to challenge those based on colonial-era arrangements, he said, adding that a comprehensive international legal study be undertaken, incorporating international customary law to affirm Ethiopia’s right secure. Temesgen Walelegn, a policy and strategy researcher at the Ministry of Transport and Logistics, on his part also stated that Ethiopia has been geopolitically isolated from the sea for over three decades, an isolation that has significantly constrained its economic competitiveness. Recalling that this situation has placed pressure on Ethiopia’s role in the global import–export system and hindered the progress of major national projects, Temesgen underscored, adding that Ethiopia must have multiple ports that could service in supporting the country’s growing economy and expanding logistics sector.

Addis Ababa, October 29, 2025 (ENA) – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Ethiopia is registering remarkable year-on-year improvements in wheat productivity. Today he reviewed the rainy season wheat harvest, launched summer wheat production, and assessed banana, papaya, and fish clusters in East Shewa Zone. The PM posted on X: "Our visit today to East Shewa Zone focused on reviewing the rainy season wheat harvest and launching the summer wheat production activities." In the same area, he also assessed the progress of the banana, papaya, and fish clusters. "Although traditional farming methods still exist, the growing adoption of mechanization in the area is significantly enhancing agricultural efficiency and productivity," the premier noted. Reflecting on the past, he wrote "had we embraced such modern approaches many years ago, our agricultural output would have been vastly different." Today, "we are already witnessing remarkable year-on-year improvements in productivity," the PM noted. In conclusion, Abiy stated that "ultimately, no external help is coming. It is our own dedication, innovation, and hard work that will drive the true transformation of our nation."

Addis Ababa, October 29, 2025 (ENA) – Securing sea access is a legitimate necessity for Ethiopia to drive its economic growth and to meet the rising demands of its growing population, Paa-Kwesi Heto, Visiting Professor of Soka University of American Graduate School and Project Policy Analyst for The Institute of Meaningful Engagement (TIME) at the University of California said. The Visiting Professor told ENA that Ethiopia has a legitimate interest in securing sea access to foster economic growth and meet the increasing demands of its growing population. According to him, the growth potential of Ethiopia would be hindered without reliable access to maritime routes for its exports and imports. "Ethiopia has a legitimate need here," Heto said, adding that "the country cannot thrive without uninterrupted access to the sea." He pointed out that while the demands of Ethiopia are valid, the approach it takes to secure this access will significantly impact regional stability. Heto urged for a collaborative mindset among African nations, suggesting that sea access should be viewed as a shared resource that can benefit all countries involved. The way Ethiopia wants to secure sea access needs to be through peaceful and win-win diplomatic principle, the Visiting Professor elaborated, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing dialogue and establishing mechanisms for harmonious cooperation with its neighbors. In this respect, employing strategic approaches that integrate economic tools with geopolitical objectives would enhance the regional influence of Ethiopia and position the country as a key player in the region. The current Ethiopian leadership initiatives such as the planned electricity exports related to dam projects exemplify this strategic thinking, he noted. Heto underscored that the strategic approaches of Ethiopia can help achieve its geopolitical and regional objectives if utilized wisely. Recall that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed reaffirmed yesterday the determination of Ethiopia to pursue its rightful access to the Red Sea through legal and peaceful avenues, underlining the importance of collaboration with the brotherly Eritrean people.

Addis Ababa, October 29, 2025 (ENA) – The Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC) held a high-level meeting with the Development Partners Group Heads of Agencies (DPG HOAs) to explore opportunities for collaboration for Ethiopia’s comprehensive National Civil Service Reform. This ambitious transformation is integral to the country’s governance and national development goals, aligning with the Second Homegrown Economic Reform Agenda. According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Finance today, FCSC Commissioner Mekuria Haile highlighted the significant achievements made under the current reform initiatives, emphasizing the strong political commitment driving these efforts. The Commissioner pointed out tangible progresses in addressing longstanding challenges, notably in compensation, service delivery, and digital transformation. To reform the compensation system, the government has allocated approximately 1.8 billion USD (250 billion Birr) within a year to implement two salary adjustments for civil servants. Notably, the minimum wage experienced a historic increase of 337 percent between September 2024 and September 2025. To ensure the sustainability of such reforms, a Merit and Wage Board has been established to oversee future adjustments. Finance State Minister Semereta Sewasew noted that Ethiopia is undertaking the difficult transition of moving from the highly legal centralized model to a more public interest model. She encouraged all development partners and donors to join the movement, noting that contributions will enhance efficiency, inclusivity, digital transformation, and improve user-centered service delivery. Speaking on behalf of the World Bank, Senior Public Sector Specialist Vikram Menon emphasized the fundamental necessity of this transformation for national progress. Menon said "civil service reform or public administration reform is critical for actually making everything else work". The Agence Française de Développement (AFD) stressed the importance of an efficient public sector for implementing broader reforms. AFD Country Director Louis-Antoine Souchet noted that "having an efficient civil service will help to implement efficiently these reforms and more broadly to have a better public service delivery". Souchet confirmed AFD’s willingness "to join the support" in coordination with the World Bank and UNDP. UNDP reaffirmed its commitment to the Federal Civil Service Commission, focusing on capacity strengthening and digitalization. Team Leader at UNDP, Fisseha Mekonnen, outlined the forward-looking plan to scale up digital service access through the successful Mesob model.