Addis Ababa November 23/2024 (ENA) Malta's Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ronald Micallef, emphasized that Ethiopia’s strategic location and growing influence in the Horn of Africa make it a vital partner for Malta in advancing its diplomatic, economic, and cultural engagement across the continent. In an exclusive interview with ENA, Ambassador Micallef explained that as part of its broader strategy to strengthen ties with Africa, Malta recognizes Ethiopia's political and economic importance, particularly in key sectors such as trade, education, and tourism. This partnership, according to the ambassador, aligns with Malta’s broader goal of expanding its international presence and fostering stronger ties with African nations. He noted a deep connection between the two countries in the past, which has been further strengthened by the opening of Malta’s embassy in Addis Ababa three years ago. "The opening of the embassy coincides with Malta's strategy for Africa, where we define Ethiopia as a key partner in our engagement with the continent," the ambassador said. "The very fact that we have proximity to the continent of Africa lends itself to trade, political engagement, and connects us in education, science, and research." The ambassador stated that Malta hosted a successful trade delegation to Ethiopia in April, with 15 Maltese companies visiting Addis Ababa. As a result, several companies have returned to Ethiopia to follow up on their exploratory visit, he said, adding that Malta is also actively exploring opportunities in health, artificial intelligence, and education, particularly in technical vocational education. “On the multilateral front, we are highly connected, particularly through the United Nations. Malta, as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council, consults regularly with Ethiopia on various international issues of importance in these challenging times. We also collaborate closely on key issues such as climate change, armed conflict, human rights, and education." Beyond the bilateral ties, Malta engages with Ethiopia multilaterally within the EU framework, further enhancing the collaboration and strengthening the overall partnership between the two nations. Micallef emphasized the similarities between Malta and Ethiopia, noting that the two countries are not far apart in their goals, despite their differences in size. Ethiopia’s population of over 120 million and Malta’s small size are complemented by shared values, such as peaceful coexistence and trade relations. Malta is also looking into joint ventures in sectors like film production, citing a recent delegation from Ethiopia that visited Malta to explore opportunities for international film collaborations. Additionally, the two countries are exploring partnerships in tourism, with Malta’s Institute of Tourism Studies in regular contact with Ethiopian counterparts. Cultural heritage is another area where the two nations share common ground, as evidenced by the similarities between the castles of Gondar in Ethiopia and those in Valletta, the capital of Malta. This connection opens up opportunities for cultural preservation and collaboration, he said. The ambassador highlighted that Ethiopia’s importance extends beyond bilateral ties, noting its role as the capital of Africa and its connection with the African Union. According to Micallef, the recent high-level visits, including Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s visit to Malta, have solidified the relationship between the two countries, reinforcing the growing friendship and collaboration. The ambassador also recalled Malta’s historical connection with Ethiopia, particularly regarding the introduction of coffee into Europe through Malta during the time of the Knights of St. John.    

Addis Ababa November 23/2024 (ENA) Prosperity Party (PP) has registered significant results across various sectors that benefits Ethiopian citizens, advancing the national interests of the country over the past five years, members of the Executive Committee of the party said. The PP celebrated its 5th anniversary with a grand event at the Adwa Victory Memorial in Addis Ababa today. A panel discussion was held to highlight the political, economic, social, and diplomatic achievements over the past five years. Among the panelists, a member of the Executive Committee of the Prosperity Party and the Deputy Chairman of PP Coordinating Committee of the Federal Institutions, Tesfaye Beljige, explained that the birth of the Prosperity Party was a response to rifts that had existed prior to the reform. He recalled how pre-reform Ethiopian politics was marked by division, tension, and a single-narrative approach that compromised human and democratic rights, leaving the country at a crossroads. He emphasized that the national reform, guided by Medemer, laid the foundation for the Prosperity Party. Various measures were taken over the past five years to rescue the country from that crossroads, including widening the political space, ensuring media freedom, reforming laws and institutions, as well as broadening the democratic environment, Tesfaye noted. He also highlighted the efforts made in correcting fundamental political distortions, promoting multifaceted prosperity, integration, and fostering national consensus. The establishment of the National Dialogue Commission and the launch of transitional justice processes were also key milestones, he said, adding that overall the reform ushered in an opportunity for Ethiopia to overcome its crossroads. Stressing that building a generation which believes in the supremacy of ideas requires hard work, he urged “We must work together to ensure peace, build a grand narrative, and further expand the political space,” he urged. Ahmed Shide who is also a member of the Executive Committee of the Prosperity Party focused on the achievements of the economic reforms. He recalled the challenges before the reform, including unsustainable economic practices, rising inflation, mounting debt, isolation of the private sector, and the unfair economic conditions that had led to a risk of macroeconomic crisis. He explained that national reforms had rescued Ethiopia from a potential of financial crisis and opened a new chapter for the economy. Ahmed elaborated on the formulation of the ten-year development plan, which helped ease debt burden, control inflation, and expand investment. He highlighted that Ethiopia registered a 7.2 percent economic growth in recent years, driven by a multi-sectoral economy under the PP. He stressed on the importance of macroeconomic reforms for sustained growth, stating that debt burdens would ease, growth would diversify, and foreign direct investment would increase. Chaltu Sani who is also a member of the Executive Committee of the Prosperity Party discussed the achievements made in the social sector, emphasizing inclusive social development as the government’s priority. She noted significant improvements in education and healthcare services, and highlighted the efforts made to reduce poverty and unemployment. Chaltu also mentioned the reforms launched to improve the quality and inclusiveness of the education system, as well as infrastructure projects, such as parks and corridor development, which align with social development goals on equity and inclusivity. She noted that the country’s development should focus on collective progress, with an emphasis on people-oriented results. Misganu Arga who is also a member the Executive Committee of Prosperity Party, highlighted Ethiopia’s diplomatic achievements. Noting the country’s foreign policy priority to its neighbors, he said that we are following a foreign policy that is bold and does not compromise national interests. He explained that foreign relations activities are centered on national honor, national interest as well as the dignity of citizens. Misganu emphasized the importance of strengthening domestic capacity as the foundation for foreign relations and the country’s engagement in regional and international cooperation. In terms of fostering regional cooperation, peace and security operations, he stated that significant activities have been carried out over the past five years. He also discussed unfolding challenges along the Red Sea region and in Horn of Africa.    

Addis Ababa November 23/2024 (ENA) Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, held discussions with a delegation of ambassadors led by Ambassador Delphine Pronk, Chairperson of EU Political and Security Committee and Deputy Director of Political Affairs of the EU External Action Service. On the occasion, Gedion emphasized that Ethiopia and the European Union have a longstanding and robust strategic partnership. He further reiterated Ethiopia's firm commitment to further solidifying the comprehensive ties with the Union. FM Gedion noted the opportunities arising from Ethiopia's ongoing comprehensive economic reforms and encouraged the Union to strengthen its economic cooperation with the country.   The Minister briefed the committee on Ethiopia’s national dialogue, transitional justice, and the steps taken to implement the DDR program. He also called on the Union to take practical measures to lift the visa restrictions imposed on Ethiopians. Ethiopia remains committed to strengthening its collaboration with the Union in combating terrorism and addressing migration challenges, he added. Ambassador Delphine Pronk affirmed that the EU will continue to strengthen its strategic partnership with Ethiopia. The Ambassador emphasized that Africa's security challenges are equally relevant to Europe and expressed the Union's commitment to collaborating with Ethiopia to promote peace and stability both in the region and across the continent.  

Addis Ababa November 23/2024 (ENA) Ethiopia's ruling Prosperity Party (PP) has achieved significant success in its short lifespan across various sectors, Vice President of the Party, Adem Farah underscored. The party is celebrating its 5th anniversary today with a grand ceremony at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum in the capital. In his speech at the occasion, Adem highlighted Ethiopia’s resilience and accomplishments over the past five years. He emphasized the country's progress in key areas such as politics, economics, social development, and diplomacy, despite the challenges faced. Adem further explained that the Prosperity Party was founded on strong ideals, with a vision to address deep-rooted national problems and ensure universal prosperity. He stated that the party’s goal is to promote unity, nationalism, and inclusion, ensuring that every citizen can live with dignity and happiness in all aspects of life—politically, economically, and socially. The party has demonstrated over the past five years that hard work can lead to national prosperity, Adem noted. He also pointed out that the party has managed to continue its achievements despite various challenges, with the support of a committed leadership, dedicated members, and public backing. Since its inception, the Prosperity Party has expanded political space, started building a grand national narrative, established true federalism, and enhanced productivity and international competitiveness. Adem also highlighted the successes of initiatives such as the Green Legacy, wheat production, corridor development, and social services aimed at improving the lives of citizens. In terms of diplomacy, he stated Ethiopia's growing influence on the global stage, including increased diplomatic ties and its membership in the BRICS. He reaffirmed that the Prosperity Party has achieved remarkable success during its short period of establishment and is committed to continuing these efforts. While ensuring universal prosperity, the party will work closely with other political parties and stakeholders to make it a reality. The 5th anniversary of PP serves as a moment to reflect on the party's journey and the political, economic, and social changes that have taken place over the past five years. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who assumed office in April 2018, initiated the formation of the PP as part of his broader political reforms aimed at creating a more unified, national party. The PP was envisioned to transcend ethnic divisions and promote national unity, with a focus on development, democracy, and peace. The formation of the Prosperity Party marked a significant shift in Ethiopia’s political landscape, aiming to establish a more centralized political system while balancing ethnic diversity with national unity.  

Addis Ababa November 23/2024 (ENA) The ruling Prosperity Party (PP) in Ethiopia is celebrating its 5th anniversary today with a grand ceremony at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum in Addis Ababa. The event brought together key government officials, including Deputy President of the Prosperity Party, Adem Farah; Speaker of the House of People's Representatives, Tagesse Chafo; Speaker of the House of Federation, Agegnehu Teshager; and party members, among others. The anniversary serves as a moment to reflect on the party's journey and the political, economic, and social changes that have taken place over the past five years.   Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who assumed office in April 2018, initiated the formation of the PP as part of his broader political reforms aimed at creating a more unified, national party. The PP was envisioned to transcend ethnic divisions and promote national unity, with a focus on development, democracy, and peace. The formation of the Prosperity Party marked a significant shift in Ethiopia’s political landscape, aiming to establish a more centralized political system while balancing ethnic diversity with national unity.  

Addis Ababa November 22/2024 (ENA) A15-Member of South Sudan’s Parliament delegation held discussions with Public Expenditure Administration and Control Affairs Standing Committee of the House of People’s Representatives (HPR). The discussion focused on drawing experiences on matters of public expenditure and scrutiny as well as forging bilateral relations between the Ethiopia and South Sudan through parliamentarian engagement. Chairperson of the Public Expenditure Administration and Control Affairs Standing Committee at the Ethiopian House of People’s Representatives, Yeshiemebete Demsie said the South Sudanese parliamentarians were briefed on Public expenditure and scrutiny affairs.   They were also provided further explanations on the progress of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam(GERD), the comprehensive reforms being undertaken by the country and the results attained, Yeshiemebet added. South Sudan’s Member of the Specialized Committee Finance and Economic Planning Ding Lam Yual said that they have drawn Ethiopia’s public expenditure and they would contextualize to South Sudanese parliament.

Addis Ababa November 21/2024 (ENA) Efforts to ensure the sustainable reintegration of former combatants from the Tigray region have begun today by enrolling them into rehabilitation training centers. These centers aim to provide the necessary support to transition former fighters into civilian life. The initiative requires former combatants to hand over their arms, including heavy and medium weaponry, as part of their entry into the rehabilitation process. In the first phase, the ex-combatants at the Mekelle Rehabilitation Training Center have handed over their individual and group weapons to the Ethiopian National Defense Forces, signifying a commitment to the disarmament and reintegration process.   It is to be recalled that following the Pretoria Peace Agreement, former militants handed over their heavy and medium weapons to the National Defense Forces in the presence of observers from continental and international institutions a year ago. The launch event was attended by Brigadier General Derbie Mekuria, Deputy Commissioner of the National Rehabilitation Commission and representative of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces, alongside military officials, representatives of the Tigray interim administration, and partners from the African Union, European Union, United Nations, and other stakeholders. The program envisions former combatants completing their training and reintegrating into their communities with the necessary financial and material support to lead stable civilian lives. This includes access to livelihood programs and social services.   National Rehabilitation Commissioner Temesgen Tilahun noted that the centers in Mekelle, Edagahamus and Adwa will collectively accommodate 75,000 former combatants over the next four months. The program will focus on disarmament, providing skills training, and fostering sustainable reintegration into society. This initiative underscores Ethiopia’s commitment to lasting peace and stability by transforming former combatants into productive members of society and strengthening national cohesion. Over a two-year period, the commission plans to reintegrate the 371,971 ex-militants identified nationwide ensuring their permanent settlement within the community. The National Rehabilitation Commission announced that the government is working with commitment on disarming and rehabilitating ex-militants in various regions, undergoing rehabilitation training and support necessary to rejoin society.      

Addis Ababa November 20/2024 (ENA) AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security Department, Ambassador Bankole Adeoye emphasized the need for a more innovative and sustainable approach to conflict resolution in the continent. The Political Affairs, Peace and Security Department of the African Union Commission is commemorating the 4th African Union Awareness Week on Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development (PCRD) from 18 to 24 November 2024 at the AUC Headquarters in Addis Ababa. The weeklong commemoration has continued to capture an increasing attention and engagement garnered from AU Member States, Regional Economic Communities /Regional Mechanisms (RECs/RMs), AU Partners and civil society across Africa. The theme for the 4th PCRD Awareness Week, “Charting the Path Forward: Collaborative Strategies for Effective PCRD Policy Implementation,” underscored the importance of a unified and strategic approach in advancing post-conflict reconstruction and development. AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security Department, Ambassador Bankole Adeoye briefed media today on the conflict zones and the efforts being made by the African Union Commission to find peaceful resolution of the conflicts. He highlighted building and supporting public democratic institutions that respond to the needs of Africans. The Commissioner noted "we are witnessing awareness week on Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development simply by Advancing and Sustaining peace building on the continent." Noting the current recent development in Sudan, South Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Mozambique, Chad Basin to Sahel region, he said, "...we have to deal with this crisis and conflict in a more sustainable and innovative way." “As we go into the strategic planning for the African Union Commission, we are looking at how we better manage and prevent conflict while at the same time looking specifically at building strong institutions for durable democracy and effective governance on our continent,” he added. We have invested more in building peace at all levels, the commissioner elaborated. “We have just started the implementation of the newly revised African Union policy on post conflict reconstruction and development. We want to see more of peace building and work. We want to share African experiences and expertise,” the commissioner indicated. The post-conflict, reconstruction and development are very essential to many aspects, he said, adding we have added three new pillars to the policy dealing with youth inclusion, environmental sustainability and child protection. On other hand, he added that we continuously work in our department on promoting democracy, observing elections this year, who we have in the record of almost 15 elections held, of which 14 have so far been observed. According to him, most of the elections have been peaceful this year. However, he noted that while democracy is being strengthened, there is also a concerning resurgence of military rule in certain regions, underscoring the need for continued vigilance and action. The PCRD Awareness Week was adopted by the AU Peace and Security Council (PSC) in 2021, and has gained significant recognition and prominence, marking its fourth consecutive year as an official event of the African Union.

Addis Ababa November 20/2024 (ENA) State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mesganu Arga discussed today with Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to Ethiopia, Mohamed Salem Al-Rashedi. The discussion focused on enhancing bilateral cooperation across various sectors, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The two sides reviewed the progress made in implementing the outcomes of the first joint ministerial commission meeting and discussed preparations for the upcoming second meeting between the two countries.

Addis Ababa November 20/2024 (ENA) The National Rehabilitation Commission of Ethiopia has announced that the process of disarming ex-militants and relocating them to rehabilitation centers in the country will commence this week. The move aims to reintegrate 371,971 ex-combatants identified across various regions of Ethiopia, facilitating their return to normal life within society. Speaking to the media, National Rehabilitation Commission Commissioner Temesgen Tilahun highlighted the commission’s mission and activities. The aim is to disarm former militants and integrate them into the country's peace, democracy, and development efforts. Established by the Council of Ministers Regulation and subsequent amendments, the commission is tasked with the comprehensive reintegration of ex-militants. The aim is to disarm the ex-militants and make them part of the country's peace, democracy and development by reintegrating them into society, it was indicated. Temesgen emphasized that the disarmament and rehabilitation process need great attention and stakeholder participation. He stated that 371, 971 ex-militants have been identified nationwide for this. Accordingly, with the government’s allocation of 1 billion birr and additional 60 million USD from international partners, the disarming of 75,000 ex-militants will begin in the Tigray region in the first phase to ensure their sustainable reintegration. Three rehabilitation centers have been identified in Mekele, Edagahamus, and Adwa in the Tigray region, the commissioner pointed out. The ex-militants will begin handing over their weapons as of today to the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) under the supervision of the Monitoring, Verification, and Compliance Mission of the African Union, he stated. Temesgen confirmed that over the next four months, 75,000 former militants from Tigray will be disarmed and integrated into society. Over a two-year period, the commission plans to reintegrate the 371,971 ex-militants identified nationwide ensuring their permanent settlement within the community. The Commissioner said that the government is working with commitment on disarming and rehabilitating ex-militants in various regions, undergoing rehabilitation training and support necessary to rejoin society.

Addis Ababa November 19/2024 (ENA)The Chief Commissioner of Ethiopia's National Dialogue Commission, Prof. Mesfin Araya, announced that the consultation process for gathering of agenda items has been completed in 615 districts. The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission presented its three-month performance report to the House of Peoples Representatives during its 5th regular session today, highlighting the completion of agenda gathering consultations in 615 districts across nine regional states and two city administrations. The report, delivered by Chief Commissioner Professor Mesfin Araya, detailed significant activities achieved during the past three months, including the comprehensive collection of discussion agendas in preparation for the upcoming National Dialogue Conference. Agenda collection was completed across 615 districts, and the selection of representatives to participate in the national dialogue conference is underway. The Chief Commissioner said that in Tigray, consultations with regional leaders and academic institutions have begun to initiate the dialogue process. Agenda gathering from federal political parties, federal institutions including religious institutions and the diaspora as well as areas where agenda gathering consultation has not yet been held, will be the next focus, according to Professor Mesfin. Members of Parliament praised the commission's progress in conducting the dialogue process in a participatory and inclusive manner.   Deputy Chief Commissioner Hirut Gebreselassie stated that the inclusivity of the process was carefully designed to fit the context of each locality, emphasizing that most of the proposed agendas were focused on national issues.   Government Chief whip at the House of Peoples Representative, Tesfaye Beljige, expressed the government's strong belief in resolving long-standing issues through dialogue. He highlighted that the national dialogue has provided sustainable solutions to enduring challenges and emphasized the strong commitment of the government to continue supporting the process.   Speaker of the House of Peoples Representatives, Tagesse Chafo, highlighted the importance of this national dialogue to sustainably address the causes conflicts, differences, and misunderstandings and maintain the nation on a strong foundation. He also urged all to participate sincerely and actively for the successful conduct of the national dialogue. The Speaker further affirmed that the House of Peoples Representatives will provide the necessary oversight and support to the Commission.  

Addis Ababa November 19/2024 (ENA) State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mesganu Arga, received Ambassador Alison Blackburne, the UK Special Envoy to the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, at his office today. Ambassador Mesganu emphasized the strategic importance of the Horn of Africa, highlighting Ethiopia's role as a key stabilizing force in the region. He acknowledged the United Kingdom's partnership and underscored the need for enhanced collaboration to address regional challenges. The Special Envoy commended Ethiopia's contributions to peace and stability in the Horn of Africa and reaffirmed the UK's commitment to supporting regional security initiatives. She highlighted the shared goal of fostering sustainable peace in the region. The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to strengthening partnership and collaboratively addressing regional peace and security challenges, according to Foreign Affairs Ministry.  

Addis Ababa November 19/2024 (ENA) US Department of State's Deputy Assistant Secretary, Vincent D. Spera affirmed his country’s unwavering support for the success of the ongoing Ethiopian nationwide dialogue process. The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission held discussions with Deputy Assistant Secretary Spera, on 18th November 2024, at its secretariat. During the meeting, the Chief Commissioner, Professor Mesfin Araya outlined the Commission's key milestones and future plans, according to the Commission. In response, Deputy Assistant Secretary Spera commended Ethiopia's ongoing national dialogue initiative and affirmed the United States' unwavering support for the success of the process.  

Addis Ababa November 19/2024 (ENA)- State Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Mesganu Araga received today the Assistant State Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Swiss Confederation, Philipp Stalder and held discussions on current national and regional issues of mutual interest. Ambassador Mesganu emphasized Ethiopia’s deep appreciation for its growing bilateral relations with Switzerland, which is Ethiopia’s fifth-largest export destination. He highlighted Ethiopia’s commitment to expanding economic ties and attracting Swiss investors, particularly in the mining, manufacturing, agro-processing, and IT sectors. The State Minister also underscored Ethiopia’s interest in strengthening technical cooperation with key partners, including Switzerland. During discussions on economic development, Ambassador Mesganu noted Ethiopia's emerging need for secure access to the sea, citing the country’s expanding economy and growing population. He emphasized the importance of pursuing this goal through peaceful means. He also stressed the government’s efforts in augmenting environmental sustainability through the national massive Green Legacy initiative. The State Minister briefed the Assistant State Secretary on Ethiopia’s progress in transitional justice and national dialogue processes. Ambassador Misganu reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing internal challenges through peaceful dialogue while prioritizing the protection of civilians. Ambassador Mesganu also reiterated Ethiopia’s continued commitment to the maintenance of regional peace and security. Philipp Stalder, on his part praised the robust bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Switzerland and stressed the importance of further strengthening their cooperation. The Assistant State Secretary commended Ethiopia’s economic progress achieved through comprehensive reforms, despite internal and external challenges. He further acknowledged Ethiopia’s significant contributions to regional peace and stability, particularly in combating Al-Shabaab. The two sides agreed on the importance of maintaining the positive momentum of the bilateral relations and economic cooperation, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They emphasized the importance of regular political engagements and organizing joint business forums to promote mutual benefits.    

Addis Ababa November 19/2024 (ENA)- Ethiopia's State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mesganu Arga, held discussions with the U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Africa, Sudan, and South Sudan, Vincent D. Spera. Ambassador Mesganu emphasized the strategic cooperation between Ethiopia and the U.S. in terms of peace and security, noting that the relations between the two countries should be further strengthened in economic cooperation. The State Minister highlighted Ethiopia’s comprehensive economic reforms, which have created a favorable investment climate, and stressed the importance of the U.S. government focusing on economic issues to encourage US companies to invest in Ethiopia. The discussions also touched upon the current situation in the Horn of Africa, with Ambassador Mesganu underlining the strong cooperation between Ethiopia and the U.S. in combating terrorism and advocating for this partnership to continue and be strengthened. The State Minister provided a briefing to the Deputy Assistant Secretary on the current situations in Sudan and Somalia. The U.S. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for East Africa, Sudan, and South Sudan,Vincent D. Spera acknowledged the historic nature of the relationship between Ethiopia and the U.S., emphasizing that the existing cooperation in security and development should be further reinforced. He further recognized Ethiopia’s key role in the region and stated that efforts would be made to enhance bilateral relations, particularly in the economic sector. He also noted that the African Union and IGAD play critical roles, especially regarding the situation in Sudan.  

Addis Ababa November 18/2024 (ENA) Ambassador-Designate of the Republic of South Africa to Ethiopia, Nonceba Losi lauded Ethiopia’s pivotal role in the maintenance of regional and global peace and security expressing her government’s commitment to continue supporting the country in this regard. State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mesganu Arga, this afternoon received the Ambassador-Designate of South Africa to Ethiopia, Nonceba Losi. During the meeting, they deliberated on shared bilateral, regional, continental and global agendas and vowed to further deepen longstanding and historical relations between the two countries. Ambassador Mesganu said, Ethiopia and South Africa enjoy excellent bilateral relations anchored by close leader-to-leader and people-to-people relations that need to be translated into tangible economic dividends in the areas of trade, tourism and private sector investment. Sweeping macroeconomic reforms in Ethiopia will tremendously help South African businesses to engage in key sectors in Ethiopia thereby translating traditional relations into actual economic relations. He also emphasized the need to further deepen cooperation through the African Union, BRICS and United Nations to jointly address common challenges and leverage opportunities. The Ambassador-Designate said, in the time of our need, during our darkest moments, Ethiopia has always been there. Amb. Losi vowed to further bolster multifaceted relations between the two countries by forging tangible economic exchanges in key sectors including agriculture, trade, tourism and investment, during her tenure. She also lauded Ethiopia’s pivotal role in the maintenance of regional and global peace and security and expressed her government’s commitment to continue supporting Ethiopia in this regard.

Addis Ababa November 17/2024 (ENA) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia expresses its condolences to the people of Somaliland on the passing away of former President Ahmed Mohamed Mohamud (Siilaanyo). President Ahmed Mohamed was a longtime friend of Ethiopia who played a significant part in cementing the strong relationship between the two peoples. The Ministry conveyed its sympathies to his family and to the entire people of Somaliland during this difficult time.

Addis Ababa November 16/2024 (ENA) The National Defense Forces (NDF) Training Head, Lieutenant General Yimer Mekonnen stated that given escalating conflicts, humanitarian crises, and geopolitical tensions, the pursuit of global peace remain at the forefront of our collective endeavor. The International Peace Support Training Institute (IPSTI), in its second cohort, graduated today 27 students in masters degree in peace and conflict management. Nine of the graduates were drawn from various countries in Africa. During the graduation ceremony, Lieutenant General Yimer Mekonnen expressed his hope that the graduates will play vital role in promoting peace and security not only in their country and the African continent, but also across the globe, stressing the urgency of peace and conflict management at this time when there are escalating crises in the region. With a rich history of peacekeeping deployments dating back to the Korean War in 1951, Ethiopia has cemented its role as a trusted partner in the United Nations' efforts to maintain international peace and security. The NDF's involvement in Somalia's peacekeeping efforts has been significant. Since early 1990s, the NDF has been paying sacrifice in Somalia, contributing to the stabilization of the region and the restoration of the Somali government's authority. Through their tireless efforts, the NDF has been instrumental in securing key infrastructure, facilitating humanitarian aid delivery, and training local security forces, laying the groundwork for Somalia's gradual recovery. The Lt. general stated that the necessity of effective peace and conflict management is more urgent than ever as we witness escalating conflicts, humanitarian crises, and geopolitical tensions. According to him, recent years have demonstrated that peace is not merely the absence of conflict but it is the presence of justice, understanding and cooperation. It is our collective responsibility to forge pathway towards harmony, understanding, and reconciliation, Lt. General Yimer added. Japan’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Hironori Shibata recalled that Ethiopia is a great country that significantly contributed its role to peacekeeping by sharing good experiences. Japan has been supporting the IPSTI financially and in technical aspect, it was indicated. He reassured Japan’s continued support to Ethiopia’s endeavor in training personnel for peace keeping missions. He urged graduates to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired for both continental and global peace and security. Samuel Gbaydee Doe, Resident Representative for the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ethiopia on his part stated that the institute is playing great role for peacekeeping. “UNDP is proud to be associated with your remarkable achievements, and we eagerly look forward to seeing the positive impact you will bring to our continent and the world through your work with the United Nations and the African Union Peacekeeping nations across the world,” he said. The representative also acknowledged Ethiopia’s long experience in peacekeeping missions. “I am from Liberia, and I have a personal experience with Ethiopian peacekeepers who, along with many from across the continent and the world brought peace to Liberia after 14 years of civil war. Today, Liberia is calling from that greater past. It is rising as one of the members of our continent. So let me take this opportunity to commend the government of Ethiopia and the Ministry of Defense for the foresight, to invest in this important training institute that has quickly gone to serve peacekeeping needs across our continent and beyond in the world,” he added. He also said we also greatly valued and recognized the technical and financial support the Government of Japan has provided to the IPSTI, local and international training as well as the masters program. It is our sincere hope that investments made in IPSTI by the government of Ethiopia and its partners like Japan will go a long way in strengthening peacekeeping and the protection of human security by preventing violence across our continent and the world, especially violence against women, children and girls, the representative stressed. The success of Ethiopia's peacekeeping operations has not gone unnoticed by the international community. Their unwavering commitment to serving the greater good has earned them widespread international acclaim by the United Nations, the United States, Canada, and various military attachés lauding Ethiopia's invaluable contribution to maintaining peace and security around the world.

Addis Ababa November 16/2024 (ENA) Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated the Federal Police Forensic Investigation and Research Center of Excellence today. “Today, we inaugurated the Federal Police Forensic Investigation and Research Center of Excellence. Just a year and a half ago, when DNA testing was needed, we had to rely on external resources,” the premier posted on X. Today, Ethiopia has established an institution capable of addressing DNA-related challenges domestically while also serving neighboring countries, the Prime Minister stated. PM Abiy further elaborated that this achievement reflects the significant reforms we have undertaken in the security and safety sector over the years.  

Addis Ababa November 16/2024 (ENA) Minister of Government Communication Service (GCS), Legesse Tulu, in a press briefing today, announced that Ethiopia is on track to harvest its highest-ever agricultural yield in history. He noted that the country’s ongoing efforts to revitalize and modernize its agricultural sector have laid the groundwork for this remarkable achievement. According to the Minister, Ethiopia has embarked on significant reforms across various sectors, with particular emphasis on agriculture. These reforms are designed to boost productivity and ensure food security, and the agricultural sphere has seen some of the most notable advancements, he elaborated. The country’s focus on modernizing farming practices, especially in the wake of the recent weather conditions, has been a key factor in this success. Minister Legesse highlighted the positive impact of timely rainfall during the winter season and the distribution of agricultural inputs to farming regions across the country. These efforts have culminated in what is anticipated to be Ethiopia’s largest-ever harvest season, Legesse underscored. “For the first time in its history, Ethiopia has cultivated 20.5 million hectares of land with crops,” he stated. Of this, 11.8 million hectares are being farmed using modern, mechanized methods, signaling a major shift from traditional farming practices to more advanced and efficient agricultural techniques, the Minister pointed out. He further explained that in areas like arid and surrounding regions, modern mechanized farming is already well underway. To date, crops have been harvested from 5.3 million hectares, and initial results from these regions show excellent yields. Looking ahead, Minister Legesse also addressed the importance of utilizing water resources efficiently, especially as the country prepares for the coming rainy season. He emphasized that maximizing the use of available water will be critical to sustaining the high level of agricultural productivity and achieving continued growth in the sector. In his closing remarks, the Minister praised Ethiopia’s achievements in recent years, noting that the country has become Africa’s leading wheat producer, marking a historic milestone in its agricultural development.