“Ethiopia Has Shown Great Responsibility for Peace, Security in Horn of Africa": German FM Wadephul

Addis Ababa, January 22, 2026 (ENA)—German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said that Ethiopia has demonstrated a strong sense of responsibility for peace and security in the Horn of Africa, noting the global significance of maritime stability in the Red Sea.

Speaking at a joint press briefing held by Ethiopia's Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and himself, the Minster noted that “Ethiopia showed us a great responsibility for peace and security in the Horn of Africa. The Bab el-Mandeb and the Red Sea are lifelines of global trade; and therefore the security of the maritime passage along the Red Sea coast is a strategic interest of Germany”.   

The Minister also said Germany clearly understands Ethiopia’s need for reliable access to sea and port infrastructure.

On regional security, he acknowledged Ethiopia’s longstanding role in Somalia and the fight against terrorism.

“Ethiopia shares a long border with Somalia, where the terrorist group Al-Shabaab operates with atrocious attacks against the population. Ethiopia has long been strongly engaged in peace and security efforts in Somalia and has contributed to the AU mission there,” he said.

Germany is very engaged at the EU level to secure funding for that important mission as it is in its interest to fight terrorism, which continues to be a threat to Europe as well.

Furthermore, Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul described Ethiopia as a major political and economic force in Africa, highlighting its rapid transformation and reform trajectory.

“If you had visited Addis Ababa 15 years ago, you would have seen only a few skyscrapers. Today, we are in one of the most modern cities in Africa. Ethiopia has embarked on a path of growth and reform.”

Pointing to Ethiopia’s economic potential, Wadephul said Germany sees strong opportunities for expanded economic cooperation.

 “As the second most populous nation in Africa, Ethiopia offers huge potential for the German economy. That is why I came with a business delegation—to explore the full possibilities for cooperation.”

According to him, major projects such as the new airport under construction in Bishoftu are examples where German companies stand ready to share their know-how and expertise, which of course reflects a good investment climate.

Congratulating Ethiopia on being selected to preside over COP-32, the Minister said  Germany will be a reliable partner in supporting Ethiopia in the preparation of the conference.

For his part, Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos said the talks were comprehensive and forward-looking, reflecting the depth of bilateral relations between the two countries.

He noted that Ethiopia and Germany are celebrating 120 years of diplomatic relations, describing the partnership as longstanding and strong.

The Minister recalled that recent engagements between the leaders of the two countries have created fresh momentum for enhanced cooperation.

“The two leaders agreed to jump-start existing bilateral mechanisms, including political consultations and the Joint Ministerial Commission.”

According to him, the ministers have agreed to strengthen cooperation in priority areas.

“We agreed to further strengthen political, economic and development cooperation, giving priority to agriculture, education, labour, vocational training and natural resources,” he said.

The two sides also discussed regional political and security situations in Africa and beyond, and agreed to cooperate on multilateral issues including climate change, security, counter-terrorism and strengthening multilateralism.