Addis Ababa, February 22, 2025 (`ENA) Ethiopian delegation led by Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, Chief of Ethiopia National Defence Force paid a one-day Work Visit to the Federal Republic of Somalia on 22nd of February 2025. The visit was conducted following the recent bilateral engagement between Dr. Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, President of the Federal Republic of Somalia and Dr. Abiy Ahmed, the Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on 14-16 February 2025. During this engagement it was agreed that a technical discussion was to be held in Mogadishu Somalia. Based on the above instructions a delegation led by Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, Chief of Ethiopia National Defence Force paid a one-day Work Visit to the Federal Republic of Somalia on 22nd of February 2025.   The Chief was accompanied by the head of the National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS), Redwan Hussein and other Government Officials. Chief of Defense Forces of the Somali National Armed Forces of Somalia, Maj. Gen Odawa Yusuf Rage and Director of National Intelligence and Security Agency (NISA), Amb. Abdullahi Mohamed Ali welcomed Field Marshal General Birhanu Jula and Redwan Hussein to Somalia and commended the strong bilateral cooperation between the two countries. The chiefs exchanged views on the security situation in Somalia and the region and underscored the need to maintain peace, security and stability in the Horn of Africa and in the African continent. They also paid tribute to the Troop and Police Contributing Countries (T/PCCs) of the AU MISSION in Somalia (AMISOM)/ATMIS and Somali Security Forces for the sacrifices made since 2007 in pacifying the country and the fight against Al-Shabaab. The Chiefs welcomed the commencement of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and highlighted the importance of building on the achievements made by its predecessor ATMIS. They also underscored the role of ENDF in African Union peace support operations. The discussion highlighted Ethiopia's contribution to regional peace and stability, while recognizing the country's wise diplomatic efforts that have mitigated a previously created dispute. It also supports Ethiopia's enduring dedication to combating terrorism in order to achieve lasting peace in the region. The Chiefs emphasized the need to adequately support the current efforts to fight al-Shabaab and underscored their commitment to jointly work together to counter terrorism. Ethiopia's crucial contribution to the peace and stability of the region was praised during the discussions, highlighting that the Ankara declaration has been yielding positive outcomes.

Addis Ababa, February 22, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia's ruling Prosperity Party (PP) Vice President Adem Farah is in Ankara to participate in the Turkish AK party congress. The AK party congress will begin tomorrow. Upon arrival in Ankara, he was welcomed by senior AK Party leaders and Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Turkey, Adem Mohammed, along with embassy officials. Recall that Vice President Zafer Sirakaya of the Turkish AK party participated in the second congress of the Prosperity Party last month. The Prosperity Party and the AK party have also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on various issues. This visit by PP vice president Adem will create opportunity for the parties to discuss the implementation of the points agreed upon in the MoU, according to PP sources. The relations between the parties will elevate the historical partnership between the two countries to a higher level, it was noted.

Addis Ababa, February 22, 2025 (ENA)— Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos calls on G-20 member states to invest in Ethiopia especially in green energy. In a speech Minister Gedion delivered at the second day session of the G-20 Foreign Ministers Forum held in South Africa, Johannesburg, he highlighted the immense potential of Ethiopia in the renewable energy sector. The Minister said Ethiopia is endowed with immense potentials in hydroelectric, solar, wind and geothermal energy and investors from G-20 member states are highly encouraged to invest in these renewable energy sectors. Regarding the turbulent situations our globe is currently facing, Gedion underscored the need for countries, especially which of G-20 to stand shoulder to shoulder against the common global challenges.   At the conclusion of the Forum, the member states of G-20 and invited countries as well as international organizations arrived at a common understanding on the attention needed to solve the challenges to save the globe from further catastrophe. On the sidelines of the Forumthe foreign minister held bilateral meetings with his counterparts of India, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, Sergey Lavrov of Russia, Kaja Kallas, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European Commission, and Foreign Secretary of United Kingdom David Lammy.   Ethiopia participated at the G-20 Foreign Ministers Forum upon invitation of South Africa, which is hosting the G-20 Forum for the first time on African soil, according to the Ethiopian Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa.

Addis Ababa, February 22, 2025 (ENA)—Undoing the system that reproduces intergenerational poverty is pressing in order to realize Africa's reparations agenda, Open Society Foundations Programs Managing Director Brian Kagoro said. In an exclusive interview with ENA, the Pan Africanist who has been campaigning for reparations for 25 years, said AU's theme of the year looks at the question of justice for Africans and persons of African descent through reparations. “If you want to undo the system that reproduces intergenerational poverty, you have to do reparations. And it's not just about compensation,” he noted. The reparations agenda is about the many things that Africans must realize. This is a struggle of the African peoples, Kagoro stressed. He elaborated that AU's theme of the year also focuses on addressing the current conditions of Africans…….underdevelopment, poverty, food insecurity, climate injustices and pandemics, among others. The theme further focuses on concerns about how to ensure the integration of the continent in a reformed global multilateral system. African communities had destruction of all ecosystems and infrastructure, erasure of their culture, misappropriation of their knowledge, scientific inventions and artistic works that continue till today to be alienated in a world where foreign culture, and foreign language, has been enforced on them, he stated. For Kagoro, injustices have also been witnessed at the international financial system design, international multilateral system design, security system design, and labor migration system design. Speaking about the return of African cultural and heritage assets is not a matter for debate, he said, adding that it is pointless to give people aid to survive poverty, poverty that's manufactured, regenerated through structures, structures that were grown through these historical processes of colonization and apartheid.

Addis Ababa, February 22, 2025 (ENA) - Ethiopia's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos conferred with David Lammy, Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs of the United Kingdom on the margins of the G20 Ministerial meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa. On the occasion, Gedion stressed Ethiopia's readiness to uplift the longstanding and fruitful cooperation between the two countries over the years to a new high. He highlighted the vast opportunities that Ethiopia offers in areas of trade and investment. The two Ministers exchanged views on national, regional and international issues of shared interest. They have also agreed to revitalize the strong relations between the two countries and work closely to promote economic growth and ensure mutual benefits.

Addis Ababa, February 22, 2025 (ENA)—A national public conference has officially launched in Addis Ababa and Sheger city, marking the beginning of a nationwide series of events set to take place in 25 major Ethiopian cities. These conferences aim to encourage citizen participation across various sectors. The Addis Ababa conference is being led by Endashaw Tasew and Alemitu Umed, the Chief Administrators of the Central Ethiopia and Gambella regions, alongside Moges Balcha, Head of Prosperity Party Addis Ababa Branch Office. Similarly, the public conference has also begun in Sheger city. The Sheger conference was led by Arega Kebede, Chief Administrator of the Amhara region, Abraham Belay, Minister of Irrigation and Lowland Areas, Alemayehu Tulu, Sheger city Prosperity Party Head, and Meseret Assefan, Head of the Oromia Trade Bureau. ENA learnt that residents from across Addis Ababa and Sheger sub-cities are actively participating.

Addis Ababa, February 21, 2025 (ENA)—Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh has arrived in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania to attend the third G-25 Africa coffee summit that kicksed off today. The summit has brought together Heads of State, Ministers, coffee authorities and Institutions, and private sector stakeholders from G-25 African coffee-producing countries to discuss and implement strategies for transforming the coffee sector. Key objectives include unlocking employment opportunities for youth and women, promoting public-private funding, providing financial support to farmers, establishing regional Centres of Excellence, and harmonizing African coffee standards to boost intra-Africa coffee trade. A two-day Summit also aims to outline a collaborative framework involving the African Union, its agencies, African Development Banks and African Financial Institutions to develop programs focused on youth employment and entrepreneurship.   Africa is home to Arabica and Robusta coffee with diverse and unique flavor, and has over 53% of its rural population involved in coffee farming. However, structural constraints and climate challenges hinder the sector's growth, it was learned. The summit has become instrumental to rejuvenate Africa's coffee industry by involving youth, enhancing value addition, and addressing systemic barriers.

Addis Ababa, February 21, 2025 (ENA)—The Regional Centre on Small Arms and Light Weapons (RECSA) stressed the need for intensifying efforts and collaboration to combat the proliferation of small arms and light weapons across Africa. Approached by POA, Executive Secretary of RECSA, Jean Pierre Betindji highlighted the Centre’s initiatives to address the growing security threat posed by these weapons, with the support of 15 member states. Founded as an intergovernmental organization, RECSA’s mandate focuses on preventing and reducing the spread of small arms and light weapons in the region. The Executive Secretary stated that as conflicts continue to ravage various African countries, the misuse of these weapons exacerbates violence and instability, fueling both civil unrest and organized crime. Through a clear strategy and action plan, RECSA coordinates the implementation of the Nairobi Protocol, an international agreement aimed at curbing the illicit manufacturing, trafficking, possession, and use of the proliferation of small arms and light weapons (SALW) in the Great Lakes and Horn of Africa regions. The Nairobi Protocol, established in 2004, plays a pivotal role in promoting regional cooperation, law enforcement, and accountability concerning arms control. Every year, RECSA organizes campaigns to raise awareness about the dangers of small arms, encouraging the voluntary surrender of weapons and offering solutions for their safe disposal. Betindji emphasized the significance of partnerships, especially with the African Union, in the ongoing effort to address the negative consequences of SALW on regional security. According to him, the regional organization has already seen success in this area, with three countries—Rwanda, Djibouti, and the Central African Republic benefiting from the implementation of projects under the "Silencing the Guns" initiative. He also revealed RECSA’s plans to continue its awareness campaigns this year while also focusing on strengthening the capacity of member states in areas such as security and stockpile management. This includes improving the management of weapons and ammunition to prevent diversion and misuse, the executive secretary indicated. Effective stockpile management is crucial, as improperly stored weapons can be a source of conflict and instability, Betindji added. For him, reducing violence and conflicts should be a top priority in Africa, instrumental to achieve sustainable development across the continent. “If we increase our efforts to reduce violence and conflict, countries can stabilize, and economic growth can flourish,” he said. The Regional Centre on Small Arms and Light Weapons (RECSA) is an intergovernmental organization that collaborates with 15 member states across North Africa and neighboring countries to reduce the spread of small arms and light weapons.

Addis Ababa, February 21, 2025 (POA)—Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos held productive discussions with the High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice-President of the European (EU) Commission, kaja kallas in Johannesburg, South Africa on the margins of the ongoing G20 Ministerial meeting. They discussed bilateral ties and exchanged views on national, regional and global issues of mutual interest. On the occasion, Gedion reiterated Ethiopia's commitment to revitalizing its longstanding relations with the EU.

Addis Ababa, February 21, 2025 (ENA)—In a symbolic ceremony on Thursday, France has officially transferred control of the Port-Bouët military base to the Ivorian army. The handing over ceremony was attended by the local authorities and French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu. This marks a significant milestone in the restructuring of France's military presence in Africa. The handover reflects the evolving nature of military cooperation between the two nations and takes place against the backdrop of rising independence movements across the continent. "France is transforming its presence; France is not withdrawing. Thus, 80 French servicemen, constituting the backbone of the joint squad, will come to arm and justify the French military presence here," Lecornu said at the base in Port-Bouet, near Abidjan.   Recall that the French military was forced to leave Mali in 2022, after maintaining a presence in Africa's Sahel region since 2014 as part of the anti-terrorism Operation Barkhane. Similarly, in 2023, French soldiers left Burkina Faso and Niger at the request of the countries' authorities. Accordingly, France officially transferred the Port-Bouët military camp to the Ivorian yesterday, on 20th February 2025. The Port-Bouët camp is now named General Thomas-d'Aquin-Ouattara, in honour of the first Chief of Staff of the Ivorian army, and the French flag will no longer fly over it.

Addis Ababa, February, 20,2025 (ENA) ---- An Ethiopian delegation led by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos is taking part at the G-20 Foreign Ministers' Forum that kicked off today in Johannesburg, South Africa. The forum, which is being held under the theme: "Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability" was officially opened by the President of the Republic of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa. In his remarks, Gedion stressed that the world is undergoing various challenges posed by geopolitical tensions, conflicts and climate change. He underlined the importance of striking right balance between competition and cooperation, emphasizing the need for joint collaboration among the international community, including the G-20 Member states, in a bid to build a stable, safe and prosperous future. The Minister added that Ethiopia advocates the revitalization of collective security architecture, the reform of global institutions and the need to ensure inclusivity. In such score, he called for strengthening support for the development aspirations of developing countries. The G20 Forum is being held for the first time on the African soil, and Ethiopia is participating at this important global forum upon the invitation of South Africa, the current Chair of G-20. The two days Forum will deliberate on broad range of issues, including regional and international peace and security, current global geopolitical rivalry, the need to ensure sustainable development and collective action to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change, among others. It will also discuss the priority areas of G-20 outlined by South Africa's Presidency for the 2025, which includes inclusive economic development, food security, Artificial Intelligence and energy transition.

Addis Ababa, February 20, 2025(POA)—Stakeholders have convened today to discuss the ongoing preparations for Ethiopia’s hosting of the 2nd United Nations Food Systems Summit, due to be held in Addis Ababa in July 2025. On the occasion, Minister of Agriculture, Girma Amente provided an overview of Ethiopia’s action-oriented and transformative efforts to achieve food security. He emphasized that various coordinated preparations are underway to ensure the successful hosting of the Summit. State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mesganu Arga, highlighted Ethiopia’s experience in hosting major continental and international conferences.   He affirmed the country’s commitment to making comprehensive preparations for the upcoming event, leveraging its existing capabilities. Head of the delegation and Director of the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub and FAO Office of Sustainable Development Goals, Estefanos Fotiou, praised Ethiopia’s ongoing development efforts to enhance food security. He expressed confidence in the country’s ability to host the Summit successfully. The meeting involved various ambassadors, senior experts from various stakeholder organizations, representatives from the Ethiopian Embassy in Italy and the Ethiopian Permanent Mission in New York.

Addis Ababa, February 20, 2025(POA)—The Speaker of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, Valentina Matvienko, said the diplomatic cooperation between Ethiopia and Russia stands on a strong and unshakable foundation. The speaker, who had a two-day official working visit in Ethiopia, left today. She was seen off by House of Federation Speaker Agegnehu Teshager at Bole International Airport. On the occasion, Speaker Matvienko expressed her sincere gratitude to the wonderful reception given to the delegation in Ethiopia.   The speaker added that she was very pleased with the working visit and saw conditions that allow the diplomatic relations between the countries to remain strong and unshakable as in past years. House of Federation Speaker, Agegnehu Teshager, said the working visit and discussions held by the Russian delegation in Addis Ababa were fruitful. The longstanding diplomatic partnership that has existed between Ethiopia and Russia will be strengthened in the future, he added.

Addis Ababa, February 20, 2025 (ENA)—Ethiopia’s State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mesganu Arga conferred with UK's visiting Special Envoy for the Red Sea and Horn of Africa, Alison Blackburne. On the occasion, they discussed further enhancing longstanding cooperation between Ethiopia and the United Kingdom in bilateral, regional and multilateral issues of shared interest.   They particularly discussed ways of further strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries in the areas of trade, investment and development in their bilateral engagements through political consultations and joint ministerial commissions. The dignitaries also exchanged views on ways Ethiopia and the UK could enhance cooperation in the peace and security of the region.

Addis Ababa, February 20, 2025 (ENA)—President Taye Atske Selassie has held talks with Speaker Valentina Matvienko of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation today. Head of the Office of the President, Tizita Mulugeta, told ENA that the discussion focused on strengthening long-standing political and economic relationship and cooperation between Ethiopia and Russia. According to her, President Taye stressed on the occasion the need to bolster the relations, acknowledging the long-standing bilateral and multilateral cooperation between the two countries. Ethiopia and Russia are countries with principled historical, bilateral, and multilateral cooperation based on respect to sovereignty, the president said. This cooperation in science, education, culture, and various fields such as the economy should be strengthened.   The office head further stated that Valentina Matvienko, the Speaker of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, said her visit to Ethiopia will enable to strengthen the overall cooperation between the countries. The speaker further expressed her commitment to further building strong relations in science and technology as well as economy, it was learned. The Russian high-level delegation led by the speaker was in Ethiopia for a two-day official visit. Prior to her discussion with the president, the speaker had discussions with top Ethiopian government officials, including Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, House of Federation Speaker Agegnehu Teshager, and House of People's Representatives Speaker Tagese Chafo.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2025 (ENA) – Stakeholders who have deliberated on Khartoum Process Thematic Meeting today called for enhanced cooperation for managing migration, dignified returns and ensuring sustainable reintegration. A two-day long Khartoum Process thematic meeting has been taking place in Addis Ababa with a theme “Safe and Dignified Returns and Sustainable Reintegration: A Partnership Approach to Lasting Solutions for Returnees and their communities.” Speaking at the occasion, Ethiopia's Foreign Affairs State Minister Mesganu Arga said that migration has become a hot political issue impacting the public and he added it is generating a passionate discussion, calling the need for enhanced management and collaboration.   The state minister said that the thematic meeting is the right platform to enhance our joint undertaking. “I am sure, we all agree that migration is an inevitable phenomenon and shared human character. However; a safe, orderly and legal migration is in the best interest of all. Khartoum process provides us with a unique platform for consultation, coordination and cooperation among countries along the migration routes between Africa and Europe,” the state minister pointed out. Mesganu added that the process continues to contribute towards joint efforts in implementing a sustainable and successful migration management in the routes—combating human trafficking and migration, and promoting legal migration. Effective return and re-integration demands cooperation between origin and destination countries that extend throughout the migration cycle, he said. He reiterated that Ethiopia reaffirms its commitment to strengthening the safe and legal migration through migration friendly policies, legislations, and regional and cross border cooperation. Khartoum Process Chairperson and Deputy Assistant Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration and Egyptian Expatriates, Wael Badawi stated that Khartoum Process participating nations face significant challenges of managing returns and ensuring sustainable reintegration.   He noted cooperation between Africa and Europe has been pivotal in creating frameworks that ensure safe and dignified return process while addressing the reintegration needs of returnees. In this regard, “the Khartoum Process thematic meeting is critical to exchange the best practices and experiences that are going to be shared in this meeting,”he said. Humanitarian Affairs Division, Department of Health, Humanitarian Affairs and Social Development Head at the African Union Commission, Rita Amukhobu, reiterated that migration is one of the most pressing issues and global reality of our time that requires collective responsibility, shared commitment and strong sense of solidarity. She stressed the need for reaffirming dedication to ensure that the returnees’ re-integration processes are carried out in a manner that is voluntary, safe, dignified and fully aligned with international human rights standards. Beyond returning individuals to their places of origin, the restoration of the sense of belonging, economic security and social inclusion is critical to the sustainability of their return, she stated. She emphasized that forced return does not only contravene with international principles but also poses risks to both the returnees and the stability of their communities.   Member states of the Khartoum Process must take the leading role in designing and implementing reintegration strategies that are effective, inclusive and embedded in broader national development plans, she underlined. In this respect, “AU remains fully committed to supporting its member states in their efforts; working closely with partnerships, regional and international organizations as well as development partners to ensure that returnees’ re-integration processes are not only well managed but also contribute to long-term stability and prosperity,” she reiterated. On his part, Director General for Migration and Home Affairs of EU Commission, Robert Rybicki, on his part emphasized the importance of sustainable cooperation and partnership approaches solutions among countries along migration routes for migration management and lasting solution.   He expressed EU Commission’s commitment for its political and financial support for the process to address the challenges of migration. “On behalf of the EU Commission, I want to underline again our political and financial support for this process to make sure that everything we do makes sense not only for us but also for our partners in different regions,” the director-general said. The Khartoum Process is a platform for political cooperation amongst the countries along the migration route between the Horn of Africa and Europe.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2025 (ENA) – Ethiopia and Russia are actively working to transform their longstanding diplomatic ties into a robust economic partnership. A high-level discussion was held between Ethiopian officials led by House of Federation Speaker Agegnehu Teshager and a Russian delegation led by Valentina Matvienko, Speaker of the Federation Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation in Addis Ababa today. Briefing the media on the discussion, House of Federation Speaker Agegnehu Teshager emphasized the importance of leveraging the shared history of the two nations to foster increased trade, investment, and technological collaboration. The delegation is reportedly the largest Russian delegation to Ethiopia to date, signaling the growing momentum in bilateral relations and a new era of cooperation across multiple sectors. The discussion focused on enhancing economic cooperation, with both sides exploring ways to tap into each other’s markets. The speaker highlighted Ethiopia’s potential in sectors such as energy, mining, and agriculture, while also expressing interest in Russian expertise in large-scale farming, peaceful nuclear energy, and advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and information and communication technology (ICT).   Ethiopia, which boasts substantial natural gas reserves, is interested in Russian investment in energy exploration and production. Additionally, the country seeks Russian collaboration in fertilizer production, agrochemicals, and agricultural machinery to boost its agricultural sector, a cornerstone of its economy. Russia, on the other hand, sees Ethiopia as a strategic gateway to the African market, offering opportunities for trade expansion and investment in infrastructure and industrial projects. According to Agegnehu, the two countries are working towards a more balanced trade relationship, with Ethiopia aiming to increase exports of coffee, minerals, and other commodities to Russia. Beyond economic ties, the talks also focused on strengthening parliamentary relations and institutional collaboration. The speaker also emphasized the importance of fostering closer ties between the upper houses of the Ethiopian and Russian parliaments as well as enhancing cooperation within the Inter-Parliamentary Union. The Russian delegation, which included senators, ministers, commissioners, and representatives from various institutions, expressed interest in promoting the Russian language in Ethiopian higher learning institutions and supporting capacity-building initiatives. Both sides also explored the possibility of establishing sister city agreements to further strengthen cultural and economic links.   Agegnehu, who described BRICS as a vital alternative platform that offers new opportunities for collaboration among emerging economies, reiterated Ethiopia’s commitment to expanding its global trade and cooperation, including through platforms like BRICS. As BRICS continues to expand, its member states will represent an increasingly significant share of the global population and economy, making it a key arena for Ethiopia’s international engagement. Ethiopia has already established business relationships with several BRICS members and is keen to further strengthen these ties. Speaker Agegnehu expressed optimism that Ethiopia’s membership in BRICS will open doors to new markets, investments, and technological advancements. The high-level visit marks a pivotal moment in Ethio-Russian relations, setting the stage for deeper economic, technological, and strategic cooperation. As both nations seek to capitalize on their historical ties and shared interests, the partnership holds immense potential to drive mutual growth and development.   As the speaker put it, this visit is a testament to the shared vision for a stronger, more comprehensive relationship, and both sides are committed to turning the historical ties into a dynamic economic partnership that will stand the test of time. In a gesture underscoring the strengthened relationship, House Speaker Agegnehu was awarded a medal by the Russian Federation Council in recognition of his contributions to fostering closer ties between Ethiopia and Russia. Upon receiving the medal, he stated that it was not just a personal honor but a recognition of Ethiopia’s growing role on the global stage.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2025 (ENA) – Sputnik International, the Russian news and radio broadcasting service, has officially launched its African bureau in Addis Ababa. The launch ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Speaker of the House of Federation, Agegnehu Teshager, Chairperson of the Russian Federation Council, Valentina Matviyenko, Ethiopian and Russian diplomats, and invited guests. Sputnik Africa's Addis Ababa bureau is said to have an editorial policy that respects the national interests and needs of the Ethiopian people and government. The bureau also employs Ethiopian journalists. Sputnik Africa aims to be a voice for Ethiopia and Africa, playing a supportive role in their development and prosperity. According to Chairperson of the Russian Federation Council, Valentina Matviyenko, Sputnik Africa is founded on the interests and needs of Africans. She stated that the opening of the Sputnik Africa bureau is crucial to achieving Russia's goal of strengthening its comprehensive cooperation with Africa.   Matviyenko highlighted the relationship between Russia and Ethiopia, which she said is rooted in culture, faith, and international cooperation. She added that Sputnik Africa will serve as a reliable source of information, disseminating accurate news and fostering stronger ties between the two nations. Speaker of the House of Federation, Agegnehu Teshager, expressed his belief that Sputnik Africa's global reach will significantly contribute to showcasing Ethiopia's realities to the world. He emphasized that the establishment of the Sputnik Africa bureau in Addis Ababa demonstrates and reinforces the cooperation between the two countries.   Agegnehu further stated that this new venture represents an additional avenue for strengthening the economic, social, and overall cooperation between Russia and Ethiopia. He affirmed that the Ethiopian government and the House of Federation will provide the necessary support for the media outlet's success.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2025 (ENA) -- The first round of technical negotiations between Somalia and Ethiopia within the scope of the Ankara Declaration took place in Ankara. The technical negotiations between Somalia and Ethiopia within the scope of the Ankara Declaration adopted on 11 December 2024 took place in Ankara hosted by Hakan Fidan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Türkiye, with the participation of delegations headed by Gedion Timothewos, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, and Ali Mohamed Omar, State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Somalia. By virtue of the Ankara Declaration, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali and President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, with the facilitation of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, had put forward a vision, ushering the way to a more prosperous and stable future. During the first round of technical negotiations, both delegations demonstrated their commitment to the letter and spirit of the Ankara Declaration, Ethiopia’s Foreign Affairs Ministry stated in a statement. The delegations began the concrete work to transform this vision into reality and lay the ground for mutually beneficial sustainable development. Both delegations appreciate Türkiye’s continued commitment to prepare the ground for the next iteration of technical negotiations in March 2025.

Addis Ababa, February 19, 2025 (POA)-- Kenyan journalists have praised Ethiopia's efforts to create a pan-African media platform designed to reshape the negative narrative surrounding the continent. During the opening of the 35th African Union Assembly, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed highlighted the media’s inaccurate portrayal of Africa and called for the establishment of an African Union Continental Media House to promote a new narrative about the continent. Ethiopia under the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy has been working to create a transcontinental media that promotes Pan-Africanism. In line with this vision, the Ethiopian News Agency has launched a new digital platform, "The Pulse of Africa," which aims to provide comprehensive coverage of African issues through various formats. Hussein Mohamed, Managing Partner, and Ronnie Kimani, Videographer from Distory Communications in Kenya, visited Ethiopian News Agency and observed the activities of "The Pulse of Africa." Following their visit, the journalists expressed their admiration for the Ethiopian government's initiative to establish a pan-African media institution dedicated to narrating the true African story to both its citizens and the global audience. They emphasized that Ethiopia's proactive approach to countering the negative narratives surrounding Africa should serve as a model for other African nations to follow and support. The journalists pointed out that the persistent negative media portrayal of Africa and its people is largely due to the failure of African media to fulfill their responsibility in accurately representing the continent. Additionally, the absence of a continental media outlet like "The Pulse of Africa" presents a significant challenge in addressing narrative-related issues. This distorted media representation has adversely affected Africa's image, depicting it as impoverished and underdeveloped, despite its rich resources and ongoing development. In light of Ethiopia's bold efforts to tackle these challenges, the journalists urged African countries to work together, emphasizing that these issues require strong collective action.