Ethiopia, UAE Reaffirm Strategic Partnership, Address Regional Security and Climate Cooperation

Addis Ababa, January 6, 2026 (ENA)—Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates strengthened their long-standing partnership during high-level talks held today, coinciding with the working visit of Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of State.

The discussions highlighted the depth of mutual respect and cooperation between the two nations, with both sides emphasizing their commitment to defending each other’s peace, security, territorial integrity, and economic interests.

According to the joint Ministerial Statement shared on Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ social media page, the talks focused on advancing regional stability and addressing urgent humanitarian needs.

The two countries reviewed developments in regional peace and security and reiterated their commitment to promoting stability and lasting peace.

Both UAE and Ethiopia recalled the High-Level Humanitarian Conference for the People of Sudan, co-hosted with IGAD and the African Union in February 2025, which rallied support for Sudan’s humanitarian needs.

Ethiopia an UAE condemned attacks on civilians in Sudan and called on warring parties to ensure the protection of civilians and humanitarian personnel.

They stressed that the primary responsibility for ending the conflict rests with the conflicting parties and reaffirmed the need for a humanitarian truce leading to a permanent ceasefire, rapid and unhindered humanitarian access, and an inclusive transition toward an independent civilian-led government.

Global priorities were also discussed.

The UAE welcomed Ethiopia’s preparations for COP32 and expressed readiness to collaborate to build on the successes of COP28 and the UAE Consensus, a historic agreement among 198 Parties. Both nations aim to deliver an ambitious climate agenda at the upcoming conference.

The talks also highlighted the upcoming 2026 UN Water Conference, co-hosted by the UAE and Senegal, which will take place in the UAE later this year.

Both sides emphasized the importance of sustainable water solutions and innovation, noting opportunities for cooperation in advancing clean water and sanitation as part of SDG6.

Ethiopia and UAE concluded the meeting reaffirming their shared commitment to regional peace, humanitarian protection, and the continued strengthening of their strategic partnership.