Ethiopia’s Prez Urges Stronger Partnerships to Advance Shared Interests at OACPS Summit

Addis Ababa, March 28, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s President Taye Atske Selassie, at the 11th Summit of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) in Malabo, called for stronger, more genuine partnerships to advance shared strategic interests and tackle challenges.

The three-day summit, which kicked off on Friday, has brought together leaders from Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific, alongside representatives of the United Nations, African Union, and European Union, underscoring the bloc’s growing geopolitical relevance.

Addressing the gathering, President Taye emphasized that the organization must harness its diversity and transform it into strategic advantage.

“Its (OACPS’) strength lies in promoting our shared strategic interests through genuine partnership and by wisely addressing problems that may seem larger than our collective commitment and capacity,” he said.

He stressed that in a rapidly shifting global economic and political landscape, a strong and cohesive institution is essential to safeguard the collective interests of its members.

The President outlined key proposals focused on strengthening strategic multilateralism, noting that the organization’s vast potential must be translated into concrete gains.

He underscored the importance of deepening South-South cooperation and called for a shift in engagement with middle- and high-income partners, moving away from a traditional donor-recipient framework toward mutually beneficial relationships.

He further urged member states to cultivate a shared sense of ownership over the organization’s mission.

Highlighting priority areas for joint action, he pointed to sustainable development, climate-resilient economies, and peace and security as central pillars.

On digital transformation, President Taye stressed that OACPS nations must evolve from being consumers of technology to becoming producers and innovators.

He identified artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital sovereignty as critical sectors requiring focused investment and collaboration.

The President also noted that Ethiopia will host the upcoming COP32 Climate Change Conference, describing it as an opportunity for member states to showcase progress in green development and climate resilience.

Speaking at the summit, António Guterres highlighted that countries in these regions are disproportionately affected by climate change despite contributing the least to its causes, calling for unified global action to ensure climate justice.

The summit also featured remarks from Évariste Ndayishimiye, who, in his capacity as Chairperson of the African Union, conveyed a message of solidarity.

Discussions at the summit are expected to focus on securing sustainable financing, strengthening institutional frameworks, and forging a unified position on global climate action.