Addis Ababa, April 1, 2025 (ENA)-- Ethiopia has officially commenced its three-year tenure as a newly elected member of the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) at a welcoming flag ceremony held today at the AU Headquarters. Speaking at the welcoming event, Ambassador Rebecca Amuge Otengo, Chairperson of the PSC for the Month of April, expressed her confidence in the capability and experience of the newly elected members of the PSC to advance the peace and security of the continent. Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, on the other hand, commended the newly elected and re-elected members of the PSC and indicated that with the addition of the new members, the PSC will continue to be a formidable forum for conflict prevention and management on the continent.   On the occasion, Ethiopia was represented by Ambassador Hirut Zemene, Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the AU and UNECA. It is to be recalled that the 46th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council held on 12 February 2025 elected four new members of the PSC. Accordingly, Ethiopia and Eswatini were elected as new members of the PSC, while Nigeria and Cameroon were re-elected for another term representing their respective regions.   Ethiopia will work in close collaboration with other Members of the PSC, and leverage its extensive experience in conflict resolution, peace-making and peace-building at regional, continental and global levels for the promotion of peace and stability across the continent, according to Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Addis Ababa, April 1, 2025 (ENA) --- House of People’s Representatives (HPR) has expressed that Ethiopia has been undertaking diplomatic reforms to uphold national interests. Fetih Mahadi, Deputy Chairperson of Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs Standing Committee at HPR, noted that Ethiopia has implemented a series of diplomatic reforms in recent years that prioritize national interests and benefit its citizens. Speaking to ENA, Fetih highlighted that these reforms span several areas, including operational, organizational, technological, and human resource development policies and guidelines. The reforms have led to the creation of an organizational structure that enhances the country's reputation on the global stage and Ethiopia has devoted in resolving African problems through African solutions, he added, citing the Pretoria and Ankara agreements as examples of the country’s mature diplomacy. According to the deputy chairperson, Ethiopia's foreign policy is designed not only to benefit the country but also its neighboring nations and pointed to the high level of diplomatic success achieved in strengthening both bilateral and multilateral relations with neighboring countries. Additionally, Ethiopia's active participation in multilateral forums has contributed to its recent membership in BRICS, he pointed out. The Deputy Chairperson further mentioned that Ethiopia has faced external pressure for years to refrain from utilizing its resources. However, through effective diplomacy, the country has been able to counter this pressure and assert its interests. Specifically, he cited Ethiopia's diplomatic efforts in securing the Nile Basin Cooperation Framework, where the country was able to advocate for its national interests, and concerning access to a sea outlet.   Ambassador Dina Mufti, a member of the HPR Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs Standing Committee, on his part added that Ethiopia’s diplomatic efforts have led to significant successes, particularly in strengthening bilateral cooperation with neighboring countries and in matters related to the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).

Addis Ababa, April 1, 2025 (ENA) ---- Canada's relationship with Ethiopia has been growing significantly, with increasing diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people ties, Canada’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Joshua Tabah said. In a recent interview with ENA, Ambassador Tabah stated that the relationship is "mature, robust, and expanding" and has been built on strong people-to-people connections since diplomatic ties were first established in 1965. There are now over 50,000 Ethiopians living in Canada and around 5,000 Canadians in Ethiopia, further strengthening bilateral relations. A major sign of the growing relationship is the increase in direct flights between Addis Ababa and Toronto, with flights now operating daily, which facilitates easier connections between the two countries. “Bilateral relationship between Canada and Ethiopia is mature, robust and expanding. We first established diplomatic relations in 1965 and we've been building on that relationship every year since, it is a multifaceted relationship. At its core, it's about people and strong People to People ties. From the beginning, we've also been an important partner to Ethiopia. In terms of international development cooperation, we have expanding trade and commercial relationships as well.” In terms of economic cooperation, Ambassador Tabah highlighted that Canada's annual development support to Ethiopia exceeds 200 million USD and focuses on areas such as gender equality, agricultural productivity, and humanitarian aid. He also noted significant investments, including those by Allied Gold, a Canadian company engaged in a major gold exploration project in the Benishangul-Gumuz region. Furthermore, Canada's relationship with Ethiopian Airlines is growing, with Canada supplying aircrafts, flight simulators, and even ice wine for the airline’s flights. Ethiopia's exports such as coffee, handicrafts, and garments are also increasingly reaching the Canadian market. Ambassador Tabah emphasized the importance of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Ethiopia, which will play a crucial role in advancing trade between the two countries. “Our development cooperation in Ethiopia is our largest bilateral development program, with around 200 million USD invested in support of Ethiopian priorities regarding gender equality, access to livelihoods, agricultural productivity, economic empowerment, and also humanitarian assistance." On the issue of food security and sustainable development, Canada has been actively involved in Ethiopia’s efforts to increase agricultural production and promote gender equality in agriculture. Ambassador Tabah mentioned that Canada is committed to supporting Ethiopia’s humanitarian needs, particularly in times of conflict or natural disasters. Looking beyond Ethiopia, Ambassador Tabah who is also accredited to Djibouti and Sudan spoke about Canada’s growing engagement with Africa as a whole, noting that Africa has been more important for Canada’s foreign policy, trade, and development goals. Canada has released its first strategy for engagement in Africa, which emphasizes a peer-to-peer relationship with individual African countries and institutions such as the African Union. In addition, Canada has been supporting peace and security initiatives in Africa, particularly through the African Union Commission, and is making significant investments in technology and climate solutions in countries like South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya. Ambassador Tabah also highlighted Canada’s support for Ethiopia's Demobilization, Disarmament, and Reintegration (DDR) process, particularly in the Tigray region. He emphasized that peace is essential for economic prosperity, and that DDR efforts are key to promoting stability and social cohesion. Canada continues to support Ethiopia in its efforts to host over one million refugees from the Horn of Africa, providing both financial aid through to organizations like the World Food Program and UNHCR, and resettlement opportunities for refugees needing protection. Through these efforts, Canada aims to build a stronger, more dynamic partnership with Ethiopia and Africa, supporting the continent’s development and stability while advancing trade, peace, and sustainable development goals.

Addis Ababa, March 31, 2025 (ENA)—A French court has convicted French far-right leader Marine Le Pen of embezzling money from the European parliament. She was banned from running for public office for five years after being convicted on Monday of embezzlement, a political watershed that rules her out of the 2027 presidential race unless she can win an appeal. The French court’s ruling is considered as a catastrophic setback for Le Pen, the National Rally (RN) party chief who has long been one of the most prominent figures in the European far right. The politician had been also the front-runner in opinion polls for the 2027 contest. Le Pen's lawyer said she would appeal the verdict, but she will remain ineligible while she does and so could be ruled out of the 2027 presidential race. She was also sentenced to four years' imprisonment, with two to be served under house arrest and two suspended— and a 100,000 Euro (170,000 USD) fine. Le Pen, her National Rally party (RN) and some two dozen party figures were accused by prosecutors of diverting over 4.1 million Euros of European Parliament funds to pay staff working for the party in France. The defendants said the money was used legitimately and that the allegations incorporated too narrow a definition of what a parliamentary assistant does. Le Pen has accused the prosecutors of seeking her "political death", arguing the provisional execution request was "completely disproportionate". She and her allies allege a witch-hunt to keep the RN out of power, echoing claims made by US President Donald Trump over his legal woes.    

Addis Ababa, March 31, 2025 (ENA)- The Ethiopian National Civil Aviation Security Committee convened to discuss the current state of the industry at national, regional, and international levels, according to the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS). NISS announced in a press release that Ethiopia's aviation security has garnered multiple affirmations regarding its dependability and adherence to international safety standards. Deputy Director General of NISS and Chairman of the committee, Sisay Tola said that although the industry has experienced a successful trajectory, it is crucial to exercise caution in protecting the competitiveness of Ethiopia's national carrier, Ethiopian Airlines, from national and regional security challenges, given the sector's unique and complex characteristics. Sisay stressed the necessity for heightened collaborative efforts among all stakeholders within the aviation sector, with a focus on strategic security matters. During a forum where participants assessed existing security measures against potential threats, vulnerabilities, and gaps, members of the Ethiopian National Civil Aviation Security Committee underscored the importance of maintaining the aviation industry's current growth trajectory. They emphasized the need for coordinated utilization of resources across all relevant institutions.   Participants further highlighted the criticality of proactively addressing both internal and external security threats by conducting thorough analyses of national and regional conditions. This approach, they asserted, is essential for ensuring the continued safety and reliability of aviation operations. The forum participants also reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening collaborative endeavors aimed at safeguarding Ethiopian Airlines, a source of national and continental pride, the press release underscored.   Furthermore, NISS indicated that a roadmap for the industry's future development, aligned with global advancements, will be formulated. The statement also noted that a directive has been issued for the continuous evaluation and management of the industry's current status.

Addis Ababa, March 31, 2025 (ENA)—African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson, Mahmoud Youssouf Ali is dispatching a high-level delegation of the AU Panel of the Wise to Juba, South Sudan to engage with all the stakeholders to de-escalate tensions and promote dialogue. After cordial direct talks with President Salva Kiir of South Sudan, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission Mahmoud Youssouf Ali addressed the evolving political situation in South Sudan and the recent violence in Nasir. Expressing solidarity with the Government and people of South Sudan, the Chairperson reaffirmed the AU’s unwavering commitment to dialogue, reconciliation, and lasting peace, according to the Commission’s statement. To enhance mediation efforts and support the full implementation of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), the Chairperson is dispatching a high-level delegation of the AU Panel of the Wise to Juba to engage with all the stakeholders to de-escalate tensions and promote dialogue. The African Union calls on all parties to uphold all the provisions of R-ARCSS and ensure its full implementation, the statement further noted. Accordingly, the AU remains actively engaged with regional and international partners, including IGAD, the EAC, and the United Nations, to support South Sudan’s transition to durable peace and democracy.

Addis Ababa, March 31, 2025 (ENA) ---The quest for Ethiopia to access sea outlets through peaceful and diplomatic means is acceptance, Israeli Ambassador to Ethiopia, Abraham Negussie underscored. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Ambassador Abraham emphasized that Ethiopia's quest for sustainable sea outlet is essential and fundamentally significant to the country. Accordingly, the move Ethiopia has been making to obtain sea outlets based on peaceful and diplomatic means is acceptable, the ambassador added. In this regard, the approach the government follows to obtain sea outlets is essential to sustain the economic growth of the country with the largest population, he said. He expressed his hope that countries that are keen for justice will rightly address Ethiopia's demands for sea and emphasized that a country with a largest number of population should not be deprived of its right to access sea. Ambassador Abraham also stressed that access for sustainable sea outlet is critical to accommodate the growing economy of the country. Ethiopia’s pursuit of sea is essential to sustain to the growing economy of the country and benefits of the people, calling for solution, he stressed.

Addis Ababa, March 30, 2025 (ENA)—US Africa Command (AFRICOM) has carried out strikes against Islamic State positions in Somalia, according to an official statement. AFRICOM reported on its website that the operation was conducted on March 29 in coordination with the Somali government. The strikes targeted Islamic State positions southeast of Bosaso in Somalia’s Puntland region, it was learned. “AFRICOM’s initial assessment is that multiple ISIS-Somalia operatives were killed and no civilians were harmed,” the statement revealed.   The military statement indicated that the militants posed a threat to US forces. No additional details about the operation were provided. ISIS-Somalia has proved both its will and capability to attack U.S. and partner forces, AFRICOM further stated, adding that this group’s malicious efforts threaten U.S. security interests.   “AFRICOM, alongside the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces, continues to take action to degrade ISIS-Somalia's ability to plan and conduct attacks that threaten the U.S. homeland, our forces, and our civilians abroad,” according to the statement.

Addis Ababa, March 29, 2025 (ENA)—The issue of securing sustainable sea outlet is a serious and enduring agenda driven by the growing demand of the Ethiopian generation, retired Lieutenant General Yohannes Gebremeskel told ENA. According to him, Ethiopia’s aspiration for a sustainable sea outlet has existed for many years. And the quest has now gained momentum due to the growing population and economic growth of the country, Lieutenant General Yohannes added, emphasizing the importance of pursuing this goal through peaceful means. This growing demand cannot be stopped without getting a solution, he stated. “The quest for a sea outlet was there. But, it has now gained momentum because of the growing demand of the generation. It can’t be stopped; therefore the demand has to be answered. In this regard, as a nation or people, we have to utilize all peaceful options to achieve the goal.”   Lieutenant General Yohannes elaborated that the quest for a sustainable sea outlet reflects not only Ethiopia's ambitions but also its commitment to fostering regional cooperation and stability in an ever-evolving geopolitical landscape. Equitable sharing of coastline benefits countries of the region since it advances economic integration, sustainable peace and stability in the region, he noted. Consequently, neighboring countries need to collaborate and show their willingness to equitably share their natural gifts for the region. Moreover, Lieutenant General Yohannes expressed confidence in Ethiopia's potential to become a leading force for peace in the region, pointing out its vital role that has been demonstrated in regional peace and stability.   Yet, given its large population and landmass, the country hasn’t fully utilized its potential, he said, insisting that the nation utilize its immense potential and become a leading peaceful force in the region. “Ethiopia has a given potential to be a leading regional peace making force in the region. Ethiopia is a large country in terms of its size, land mass and population. However, the country needs to exploit its potential to ensure sustainable peace and stability in the region”.

Addis Ababa, March 29, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia participated in the BRICS meeting of Vice Foreign Ministers and Special Envoys on the Middle East and North Africa which took place in Brasilia, Brazil from March 27-28, 2025. Addressing the meeting, Ethiopia's Ambassador to Brazil, Ambassador Leulseged Tadese, expressed concern about the ongoing conflicts and their humanitarian impacts in the Middle East and North Africa region. He underscored that Ethiopia has always been advocating for peaceful and diplomatic solutions in accordance with, and in full respect of, international laws and the UN Charter. Ambassador Leulseged stressed the importance of the primacy of dialogue and effective diplomacy to bring durable peace and inclusive and sustainable development in the region while addressing urgent humanitarian crises.   While stating that Ethiopia has zero tolerance for terrorism in any form and manifestation, he called for enhanced global cooperation and partnership to combat terrorist groups. The Ambassador further explained that Ethiopia continues to make consistent efforts to help mediate a diplomatic solution in Sudan. Mentioning that Ethiopia co-hosted a High Level Humanitarian Conference on Sudan which took place in Addis Ababa last month, he called on BRICS countries that are in a position to extend support, and scale up humanitarian assistance to the people in need in all parts of Sudan. He further pointed out that Ethiopia is the most populous country on the African Shore of the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. In this regard, the Ambassador underlined that it is in the interest of the global community to promote an inclusive international cooperation over the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean.   The BRICS Meeting of the Vice Foreign Ministers has adopted a joint statement reiterating its serious concern over continued conflicts in the Middle East and North Africa. BRICS Vice Ministers and Special Envoys also in their Joint Statement welcomed the High Level Humanitarian Conference for the People of Sudan on 14 February 2025, in Addis Ababa, co-hosted by Ethiopia, UAE, IGAD, AU, and UN.

Addis Ababa, March 29, 2025 (ENA)—The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Mahmoud Ali Youssouf expressed deep shock and unequivocally condemns the heinous terrorist attack carried out by Boko Haram on 24 March 2025 against the Cameroonian military in Wulgo, within the Lake Chad Basin. The attack, executed using an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), underscores the evolving threats posed by terrorist groups in the region, according to the statement from the AU. The Chairperson extends heartfelt condolences on behalf of the African Union to the families of the fallen soldiers, as well as to the Government and people of Cameroon. He further wishes a swift and full recovery to those wounded in the attack. This reprehensible act of violence reinforces the urgent need to intensify counterterrorism efforts to eradicate Boko Haram and other extremist elements operating in the Lake Chad Basin. The Chairperson reiterates the African Union’s unwavering solidarity with Cameroon and all member states of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF). He reaffirms the AU’s commitment to mobilizing and providing the necessary resources to strengthen collective security efforts, eliminate armed groups, and advance the goal of silencing the guns across the region. The African Union remains steadfast in its resolve to support regional and international initiatives aimed at restoring peace, stability, and security in the Lake Chad Basin and beyond.

Addis Ababa, March 28,2025 (ENA)—The virtual dialogue is underway to explore key issues impacting Africa’s progress, such as reforming the global financial architecture, climate adaptation, digital public infrastructure (DPI), and health, focusing on Africa’s positioning in the G20. The online event under the “Fridays of the Commission” series, titled: “African Union and South Africa in the G20: Effective Advocacy for Africa’s Priorities.” This timely dialogue is anticipated to provide actionable recommendations on how the AU can leverage South Africa’s G20 Presidency in 2025 to advance Africa’s priorities. It will also review the AU’s positioning in the G20 following its historic first year as a full member. Africa has a unique opportunity to shape the global agenda following the AU’s accession to the G20, according to the African Union’s media advisory. With four consecutive G20 Presidencies from the Global South and South Africa set to preside in 2025, the AU is well-positioned to push for key reforms that support Africa’s development, the advisory added. Thus, this session focuses on reform of the global financial architecture, Climate adaptation strategies, digital public infrastructure (DPI), health financing and sustainable development Africa’s positioning within the G20 during and beyond South Africa’s Presidency.

Addis Ababa, March 28, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s Ambassador Delil Kedir presents His Credentials to President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa on Thursday in Pretoria. Ambassador Delil in his remarks recalled the longstanding and historical relationships between the two countries, which have been based on mutual friendship and Pan-African spirit that cemented with strategic partnership for strong solidarity and people to people ties. The ambassador further expressed his gratitude and appreciation on behalf of the government of Ethiopia for the strong support of South Africa government for continental principle of African solutions to African problems while commanding South Africa’s role in facilitating and hosting Pretoria cessation of hostility agreement.   He also underscored the endeavor and extraordinary commitment of the government of Ethiopia for the full implementation of the agreement, according to the Embassy of Ethiopia in South Africa. In his statement, ambassador Delil highlighted the importance of bilateral relationship recently uplifted to the level of strategic partnership, showcasing the deep rooted connections in both bilateral and people to people ties.   He assured his personal devotion and determination to further strengthen the multi-sectorial relationship in trade, investment and technology transfer to enhance people to people relations for advanced mutual benefits.

Addis Ababa, March 28, 2025 (ENA) --- UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is deeply concerned with the escalating situation in South Sudan, warning that the country is on the brink of civil war, his spokesman said on Thursday. The statement came following reports of the house arrest of South Sudanese First Vice President Riek Machar in the capital of Juba. The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) calls on all parties in the country to "exercise restraint and uphold the Revitalized Peace Agreement (RPA)," said Stephane Dujarric, spokesman for the UN chief, at a daily briefing. The peacekeeping mission is joining other regional and international peace partners in expressing alarm at the detention under house arrest of Machar, Dujarric said. Dujarric said the United Nations warns that the confinement "takes the country yet one step closer to the edge of a collapse into civil war and the dismantling of the 2018 peace agreement." UNMISS head and special representative of the secretary-general, Nicholas Haysom, issued a statement late Wednesday after reports of the detention. "This will not only devastate South Sudan but also affect the entire region," he said. "Tonight, the country's leaders stand on the brink of relapsing into widespread conflict or taking the country forward towards peace, recovery and democracy." UNMISS urged President Salva Kiir and the first vice president to resolve grievances, end the military confrontation, uphold the RPA and take the country forward together towards a peaceful and democratic future. There were reported clashes between government troops of the South Sudan People's Defence Forces and the Sudan People's Liberation Army in Opposition near Rejaf, just south of the capital Juba, and in Wunaliet, to the west. Dujarric said it should be clear to all that the people of South Sudan can ill afford to endure the consequences of the civil war. "It's vital that the leaders of the country put the interest of the people first and foremost," he stressed.

Addis Ababa, March 27, 2025 (ENA) – The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, expressed deep concern over reports regarding the detention of the First Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan, Riek Machar. The statement by the Chairperson indicated that the African Union underscores the imperative for all stakeholders to de-escalate the situation, uphold the spirit and letter of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS), which remains the cornerstone for sustainable peace, stability, and national reconciliation. “The African Union urges all concerned parties to exercise maximum restraint, refrain from any actions that could exacerbate tensions, and engage in constructive dialogue to resolve any outstanding issues through peaceful and legal means,” the statement underlined. The well-being of the South Sudanese people must remain the foremost priority, and all efforts must be directed towards ensuring an environment conducive to lasting peace and development, the Chairperson stated. The African Union stands in solidarity with the people of South Sudan and reiterates its unwavering support for the full and timely implementation of the peace agreement. In this regard, the statement added “The AU remains ready to work closely with the Government of South Sudan, regional and international partners, including the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), to foster stability and inclusive governance in the country.” The Chairperson called upon all parties to recommit to the principles of dialogue, cooperation, and respect for human rights as essential pillars of a peaceful and prosperous South Sudan. The Chairperson will deploy the AU Panel of the Wise to Juba as part of efforts to de-escalate the situation, the statement revealed.

Addis Ababa, March 27, 2025 (ENA)—The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) expresses alarm over reports of the house arrest of Riek Machar Teny, First Vice President of South Sudan, and the escalating political tensions in South Sudan. In a statement, the Authority said these developments seriously undermine the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and risk plunging the country back into violent conflict. IGAD Executive Secretary Workneh Gebeyehu called on “all parties to immediately refrain from unilateral actions that violate the spirit and letter of the R-ARCSS, which remains the only viable framework for sustainable peace in South Sudan”. “The current trajectory, if unchecked, could lead to a collapse of the transitional process and a relapse into full-scale war, with devastating consequences for the people of South Sudan and the region at large.” Gebeyehu was highlighting the Communique of the 43rd Extraordinary IGAD Assembly of Heads of State and Government of March 12, 2025. The Executive Secretary also urged “all signatories to the Agreement to exercise maximum restraint, prioritize dialogue, and resolve differences through inclusive and peaceful means”. He reiterated IGAD’s readiness to support mediation efforts and called upon regional and international partners to reinforce the imperative of preserving peace in South Sudan.

Addis Ababa, March 27, 2025 (ENA) -- President Taye Atske Selassie has visited Addis Ababa University’s Ale School of Fine Arts and Design and Yared School of Music today. During the visit, the Ale School of Fine Arts and Design presented a gift of fine art to President Taye. President of Addis Ababa University Samuel Kifle and staff members of the university and office of the president attended the event.

Addis Ababa, March 27, 2025 (ENA)—In coordination with the Federal Government of Somalia, U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) conducted multiple airstrikes against ISIS-Somalia on March 25, 2025. The airstrikes occurred in the vicinity of the Golis Mountains, Somalia. AFRICOM’s initial assessment is that multiple ISIS-Somalia operatives were killed and no civilians were harmed. ISIS-Somalia has proved both its will and capability to attack U.S. and partner forces. This group's malicious efforts threaten U.S. security interests, AFRICOM stated. U.S. Africa Command, alongside the Federal Government of Somalia and Somali Armed Forces, continues to take action to degrade ISIS-Somalia's ability to plan and conduct attacks that threaten the U.S. homeland, our forces, and our civilians abroad, accoridning to Command. Specific details about the operation will not be released to ensure continued operations security, it noted.  

Addis Ababa, March 27, 2025 (ENA)—President Taye Atske Sselassie bade farewell to the outgoing Ambassador of Bangladesh to Ethiopia, Sikder Bodiruzzaman and held a courtesy meeting with Israeli Ambassador, Abraham Negussie on Wednesday. During the farewell at the office of the president, President Taye expressed his gratitude for the ambassador's significant contributions during his tenure. President Taye lauded him for his relentless dedication and efforts to strengthen the bilateral cooperation between Ethiopia and Bangladesh. Ambassador Bodiruzzaman expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to him by the Ethiopian government and its people. Appreciating the good weather condition of Ethiopia, the ambassador added that after coming to Ethiopia he was healthier than in Bangladesh. His time in Ethiopia had been filled with positive experiences, further emphasizing the healthy condition of bilateral relations. The ambassador pointed out that enhancing business cooperation as well as promoting people to people ties between Ethiopia and Bangladesh, particularly through operation of Ethiopian Airlines to Dhaka are among the great achievements he has made during his tenure here. In a similar development, President Taye held a courtesy meeting with the Israeli Ambassador to Ethiopia, Abraham Negussie. The meeting was focused on ongoing efforts of bilateral diplomatic activities between Ethiopia and Israel. President Taye and Ambassador Negussie discussed ways of exploring potential areas for collaboration between the two countries, it was learnt. Ambassador Negussie said that the courtesy meeting was important for him to update President Taye about the embassy's activities regarding bilateral relationship between Ethiopia and Israel. Ethiopia and Israel have deep historical and unique relationships, the ambassador noted. He added that he is playing a positive role in advancing the historical relationships of the two countries into higher levels of cooperation. Pointing out that Israel has experience of greening the desert areas, the ambassador said “we are working hard to bring Israeli technology to Ethiopia in order to advance the modern agriculture system, health service, cyber security and other areas of cooperation.”

Addis Ababa, March 26, 2025 (ENA) – South Africa will use the G20 presidency to drive stronger global commitments to climate action and environmental sustainability, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Dion George said. George made the remarks at the first virtual meeting of the G20 Environment and Climate Sustainability Working Group (ECSWG). In his opening address, the minister outlined an ambitious agenda focused on biodiversity, climate finance, waste management, and ocean conservation. With less than five years remaining to meet the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), George said, poverty and inequality remain pressing global challenges, while carbon dioxide emissions continue to rise. "The G20 can play a crucial part in halting and reversing biodiversity loss by 2030, aiming for a 'nature-positive world' for the benefit of people and the planet. Building on the Brazilian presidency's initiative on bioeconomy, this priority area will also deal with the role of the bioeconomy, nature and wildlife economy in contributing to livelihoods of communities," he said. According to the minister, the ECSWG will also aim to tackle land degradation, desertification and drought by maintaining existing healthy land, reducing existing degradation by adopting sustainable land management and regenerative practices that can slow degradation while increasing biodiversity, soil health, and food production. The third priority of the ECSWG focuses on chemicals and waste management, George said, noting that the G20 can support the development of a legally binding international treaty to combat plastic pollution. South Africa is also focusing on climate change and air quality, while the final priority area is on oceans and coasts, which focuses on the importance of Marine Spatial Planning as an integrated approach to improving the rational planning, management and governance of the ocean space and marine resources, he said. The minister also revealed that the ECSWG will continue discussions throughout the year, with in-person meetings scheduled in July at Kruger National Park and October in Cape Town, where delegates will finalize key policy recommendations ahead of the G20 Leaders' Summit. The G20 comprises 19 countries including: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, United Kingdom, and United States and two regional bodies, namely the European Union and the African Union. The G20 members include the world’s major economies, representing 85% of global Gross Domestic Product, over 75 percent of international trade, and about two-thirds of the world population.