President Taye Atske-Selassis Addresses International Inter-Religious Conference
The First Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum
World Without Hunger Conference Concludes with Notable Achievements
Ethiopia Presents Human Rights Report at the 47th Universal Periodic Review Session in Geneva
Ethiopia, China, and UNIDO Inaugurate Center for Excellence in Addis Ababa
Ethiopia Hosts the 28th Ethio-Djibouti Joint Border Administrators and Commissioners’ Meeting
NEWS IN BRIEF
Ethiopia
A delegation led by President Taye Atske-Selassie attended the 29th Conference of the Parties (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, which commenced on Monday (November 11). During the event, President Taye delivered an address calling for global collaboration to ensure a sustainable future for future generations. He also officially opened the Ethiopian Pavilion.
The President met and held a discussion with Ilham Aliyev, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, on the sidelines of the 29th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29), in Baku on Thursday (November 14).
President Taye also attended the opening session of the 15th meeting of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) Council of Ministers meeting held in Addis Ababa.
President Taye delivered a keynote address at the International Inter-Religious Conference, held last week in Addis Ababa over two days, under the theme “Addis Ababa Declaration on Tolerance, Citizenship, and Peace.” (See Article)
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed welcomed a high-level government delegation from China’s Jiangsu Province, led by Xu Kunlin on Thursday(November 14). During their courtesy call, key members of the delegation discussed various matters with the Prime Minister. The delegation arrived in Addis Ababa to participate in the China-Africa (Ethiopia) Economic and Trade Cooperation Forum.
The forum opened on the same day, with Minister of Finance Ahmed Shide and State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mesganu Arga Moach, speaking at the China-Africa (Ethiopia) Economic and Trade Forum. They encouraged Chinese investment in agriculture, tourism, technology, and mining, emphasizing Ethiopia’s comprehensive economic reforms.
Prime Minister Abiy inaugurated ‘Beynouna Village,’ built around Lake Beseka, on Sunday (November 10). The village is part of the Bounty of Basket initiative led by the Prime Minister.
The three-day-long World Without Hunger Conference 2024, conducted from November 5-7 in Addis Ababa, concluded with historic pledges and pioneering solutions for global food security. (See Article)
The First Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum took place in Sochi, Russia, from November 9–10. The Ministerial Conference saw the participation of an Ethiopian delegation led by Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos. (See Article)
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion, received and held discussions with Sophie From-Emmesberger, the European Union Ambassador to Ethiopia, in his office on Wednesday (November 14). The two sides discussed strengthening Ethiopia-EU relations, focusing on development cooperation, trade, and investment.
The Foreign Minister also met with Ambassador Darren Welch, the UK’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, on Tuesday (November 12), where the two sides discussed peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.
On the same day, Minister Gedion held discussions with the Chinese Ambassador to Ethiopia, Chen Hai. They agreed on ways to further strengthen the “All-Weather Strategic Partnership” between Ethiopia and China.
Minister of Finance, Ahmed Shide, provided an update on Ethiopia’s comprehensive macroeconomic reform policy, including significant progress in the foreign exchange sector, fiscal policy reform, and other related issues, during a media briefing on Tuesday (November 12).
Ethiopia’s Minister of Women and Social Affairs, Ergogie Tesfaye, held discussions with Chilean officials in Addis Ababa on Friday (November 8). A high-level Chilean delegation led by Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gloria De La Fuente, was in attendance as the two countries initiated a collaboration to promote gender equality and empower women.
The Ethiopia-Russia Business Forum opened in Addis Ababa on Wednesday (November 13). During the opening ceremony, State Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Mesganu Arga, highlighted the historic and strengthened ties between the two nations through economic diplomacy. He invited Russian companies to explore Ethiopia’s improved investment climate, supported by recent macroeconomic reforms.
Ambassador Mesganu met with the U.S. Special Envoy for Sudan, Tom Perriello, at his office on Friday (November 15). The two sides exchanged views on finding a lasting political solution to the conflict in Sudan.
On the same day, the State Minister for Foreign Affairs conferred with Japan’s Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Ambassador Shimizu Shinsuke. They also discussed other regional issues of mutual concern.
Ambassador Mesganu also met with Julia Niblett, Australian Ambassador to Ethiopia, on Monday (November 11). The two sides emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in trade and investment.
Ethiopia presented its national report during the 47th Session of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) at the Human Rights Council in Geneva on Tuesday (November 12), marking the fourth cycle of the UPR for Ethiopia, following its previous participation in 2019. (See Article)
Ethiopia, China, and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) inaugurated the China-Africa-UNIDO Center of Excellence in Addis Ababa on Wednesday (November 6). (See Article)
During a Press Briefing to the media on Thursday (November 15), Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, Ambassador Nebiat Getachew, announced that Addis Ababa hosted over 30 international conferences in the first quarter of this fiscal year, enhancing tourism and Ethiopia’s global profile. Ambassador Nebiat also noted that, at the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum in Sochi, Foreign Minister Gideon held productive discussions on bilateral and global issues.
Eritrea
President Isaias Afwerki met with the UN Secretary-General’s Envoy for Sudan, Ramtane Lamamra, for discussions on regional developments on Tuesday (November 12).
Djibouti
The 28th session of the Ethiopia-Djibouti Joint Border Administrators’ and Commissioners’ meeting was held in Bishoftu last week (November 7-8). The assemblage reviewed the status of bilateral cooperation in the fields of political governance and security, trade, infrastructural interconnection, and management of the movement of people and goods. The meeting deliberated on joint response mechanisms to the diverse threats faced by both countries and provided clear directions moving forward. (See Article)
Djibouti’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, participated in a ministerial meeting of the Arab-Islamic Summit in Riyadh on Sunday (November 10). The meeting was part of preparations for the extraordinary Arab-Islamic summit.
Somalia
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud attended the Extraordinary Arab-Islamic Summit in Riyadh on Monday (November 11).
South Sudan
South Sudan’s Minister of Transport, Madut Biar Yel, met and held discussions with Ethiopia’s Ambassador to South Sudan, Nebil Mahdi, on Monday (November 11). During the meeting, the Minister expressed appreciation for Ethiopian Airlines Group’s efforts to enhance regional air connectivity and acknowledged the airline’s role in improving transportation links in the region.
Africa and the African Union
The 15th Session of the Council of Ministers of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) convened in Addis Ababa from November 9–10. The meeting brought together key decision-makers and stakeholders to deliberate on a myriad of topics and strategic initiatives within the AfCFTA framework. (See Article)
African Union Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat attended the 2nd AU-Canada High-Level Dialogue on Tuesday (November 12). He met with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and participated in an interactive session with Canadian-African diaspora organizations.
The African Union also participated in the First Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum, held in Sochi. The conference charted a path for the upcoming Summit in 2026, which will be hosted in Africa.
President Taye Atske Selassie Addresses International Inter-Religious Conference
President Taye Atske-Selassie delivered a keynote address at the International Inter-Religious Conference, held last week in Addis Ababa over two days, under the theme “Addis Ababa Declaration on Tolerance, Citizenship, and Peace.”
The president, in his address, emphasized the vital role of religious unity in a world facing growing challenges of opposition and intolerance. Hosted by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Peace in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi-based Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities, the conference attracted global leaders in religious thought and diplomacy, aiming to build bridges across diverse faiths.
President Taye expressed that Ethiopia’s cultural and spiritual legacy stands as a beacon of peaceful coexistence. He noted Ethiopia’s historical embrace of diverse faiths and urged for a renewed commitment to the principles of respect, patience, and tolerance that religions inherently advocate, seeing these values as necessary pillars for harmonious coexistence.
The conference centered on discussions of peace, tolerance, and the role of faith; the president described the global increase in political and ideological conflicts as a call for religious institutions to become bridges between differences. Furthermore, he underscored the responsibility of religious organizations to preserve values that uphold coexistence and moral integrity. The conference created a platform for envisioning an “Addis Ababa Declaration on Tolerance, Citizenship, and Peace” that could inspire future peace-building efforts.
Ethiopia’s historical role as a center for diverse religions and cultures was underscored during the conference and served as a platform to foster interfaith dialogue for achieving sustainable peace, unity, and mutual respect across diverse cultures and religions.
The event saw participation from key figures, including Ethiopia’s Minister of Peace, Binalf Andualem, and Khalifa Mubarak Al Dhaher, Chancellor of the Mohamed Bin Zayed University for Humanities. Minister Binalf highlighted that religious institutions have a unique role as pillars of moral guidance and community solidarity. He stressed that fostering a culture of religious tolerance is fundamental for building harmonious societies.
The gathering brought together religious leaders, scholars, and diplomats from across Africa and beyond. Attendees included representatives from regional peace and security bureaus, Ethiopian universities, and religious institutions from Russia, Morocco, South Africa, and various East African nations. Through panel discussions, debates, and cultural presentations, the conference provided a platform for interfaith dialogue and collaboration on peacebuilding and conflict resolution.
The First Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum
The First Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum took place in Sochi, Russia, from November 9–10. The Ministerial Conference saw the participation of an Ethiopian delegation led by Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos.
On the plenary session of the First Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum, FM Gedion underlined that in order to realize Africa’s grand vision of creating an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa and to achieve its rightful role in the international arena, the continent needs solid and unconditional supports from true friends and genuine international partners in economy, diplomacy, technology transfer, and access to finance, among others. In this connection, the Minister pointed out that Ethiopia firmly believes that Russia is one of the reliable and true friends of Africa.
He noted that deepening economic cooperation between Africa and Russia in the areas of Foreign Direct Investment and trade, as well as enhancing collaboration in science and technology, are critical to maximizing benefits for both sides.
The Minister indicated that Africa and Russia should strengthen their collaboration in boosting agricultural productivity and utilization of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, as well as expanding the industrial base of African economies and addressing the adverse impact of climate change.
Furthermore, the Foreign Minister said Ethiopia welcomes the readiness of the Russian Federation to expedite a comprehensive reform at the UN and in support of Africa’s rightful permanent representation at the UN Security Council.
The Foreign Minister of the Russian Federation, Sergey Lavrov, stated that African countries are playing a greater role and growing authority on the world stage by pursuing constructive and peaceful foreign policies. The Foreign Minister noted that Russia attaches particular importance to strengthening traditionally friendly relations with African partners. He pointed out that Africa and Russia are united by the desire to build a fair multipolar world order based on genuine equality and the supremacy of international law, free from any forms of discrimination, dictates, and sanctions pressure.
The Ministerial Conference deliberated on various common agendas, including ensuring sustainable development, fighting against terrorism and extremism, countering epidemic diseases, solving food insecurity, and overcoming the consequences of natural disasters.
The ministers coordinated their positions on the key issues of the international agenda as well as the Russian-African agenda, prioritizing the implementation of the action plan of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum for 2023-2026. Also, they specified and coordinated long-term guidelines for expanding mutual collaborations.
At the end of the conference, four joint statements, including a political statement as well as three sectoral statements on International Information Security, Counter-Terrorism measures and the Peaceful Use of Outer Space agreed by the Ministers and endorsed by acclamation.
The inaugural ministerial conference stems from the 2023 Second Russia-Africa Summit, where a declaration was adopted to establish the Ministerial Conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum as a regular dialogue platform between Russia and Africa.
On the sidelines of the conference, Foreign Minister Gedion met with his counterparts to discuss bilateral and regional matters of mutual interest.
World Without Hunger Conference Concludes with Notable Achievements
The three-day-long World Without Hunger Conference 2024, conducted from November 5-7 in Addis Ababa, concluded with historic pledges and pioneering solutions for global food security.
The closing session of the conference featured High-level statements by heads of state and government representatives, high-level government-to-business (G2B) dialogue, and a political forum with the presentation of the conference outcomes.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stressed the need for collective responsibility to build resilient, sustainable agricultural systems that uplift all communities and the importance of climate-adaptive practices, sustainable farming, and improved market access in empowering smallholder farmers to ensure global food security.
The Prime Minister further highlighted the importance of integrating technology, promoting innovation, and building climate resilience in addressing the global challenge of hunger through collaborative efforts.
On the occasion, Kenya’s President William Ruto emphasized the urgent need to end hunger and ensure food security through collective actions, urging investment in agricultural communities, sustainable production practices, and resilient food systems.
The Prime Minister of the Republic of Guinea, Amadou Oury Bah, underscored, on his part, the need for collective efforts to respond to the current challenges and to make Africa great again.
Commending Ethiopia’s significant progress in addressing climate change and its impacts through ambitious climate change initiatives, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Shakbot Nahian, reiterated his country’s commitment to support the efforts.
In his concluding remarks, the President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Ambassador Taye, stressed the need for strong political commitment, adequate financial and technological resources, and visionary leadership to translate all the outcomes of the three days of deliberations into tangible actions.
The President urged all to work together to address current challenges and harness continental and global potential with urgency, boldness, and unity.
The three-day conference hosted thematic roundtables and discussions that concretized the shared vision to create a world without hunger. Experiences were shared on the status of implementation of SDG 2 on the abolition of hunger. Discussions were held on subjects ranging from production, distribution, and consumption. Best practices in the areas of reducing post-harvest loss, increasing productivity, agro processing and value addition were presented. Consensus was reached on the need to revamp commitments on debt relief and climate finance.
The conference also created an opportunity to showcase Ethiopia’s multi-pronged efforts to ensure food security, that are the Green Legacy Initiative, the bounty of the basket, and the summer irrigation national program.
The historic pledges made to support the achievements of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing nations marked significant private sector investment toward global sustainable development efforts.
Following the completion of the three-day-long World Without Hunger conference, the President of the Republic of Sierra Leone Julius Maada Bio and the Prime Minister of the Republic of Guinea Amadou Oury Bah have visited integrated agricultural development projects implemented in the East Shewa zone of the Oromia region in the presence of Agriculture Minister Girma Amente, Defense Minister Engineer Ayisha Mohammed, and other senior government officials.
The occasion has further enabled the high-level officials to visit Ethiopian Air Force, led by Ethiopian Air Force commander Lieutenant General Yilma Merdasa and Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed.
The World Without Hunger Conference concluded on November 7, bringing together over 1,500 key stakeholders, including heads of state, government officials, UN agencies, private sector representatives, and civil society leaders, to address one of humanity’s most pressing challenges.
Ethiopia Hosts 15th Session of the Council of Ministers of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in Addis Ababa
The 15th Session of the Council of Ministers of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) convened in Addis Ababa from November 9-10. The meeting, which brought together key decision-makers and stakeholders to deliberate on a myriad of topics, and strategic initiatives within the AfCFTA framework, was addressed by Taye Atseke-Selassie, President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.
The opening remarks by the President, which highlighted the achievements made thus far to advance a free trade area and emphasized the need for continued collaboration and concerted efforts to overcome challenges, set the tone for the discussions that followed. In his address, the President reiterated the key priorities and objectives of the AfCFTA, including promoting sustainable growth, enhancing competitiveness, and fostering a conducive environment for trade and investment.
Furthermore, the President underscored the importance of prioritizing environmental sustainability and the wise use of critical minerals for realizing Agenda 2063 and the SDGs. He further reflected on Ethiopia’s progress in domesticating the AfCFTA Agreement and the crucial reform initiatives being implemented, expanding Ethiopia’s trade opportunities.
In his welcoming and introductory remarks, Kassahun Gofe, Ethiopia’s Minister of Trade and Regional Integration, emphasized the significance of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) for advancing continental integration and unlocking economic opportunities. The session was chaired by Suleiman Saidi, Tanzania’s Minister of Trade and Industry and Chairperson of the Council of Ministers of Trade, who highlighted Africa’s immense potential for economic growth and prosperity.
This is the first time for Ethiopia to host the Council of Ministers of the AfCFTA Session since the Agreement was signed in March 2018. The 15th Session of the Council of Ministers, which was preceded by the 19th Session of the meeting of the Senior Trade officials, was crucial in showcasing Ethiopia’s ongoing reforms and the progress in the process of domesticating the AfCFTA Agreement.
The Ministerial Session reviewed the report of the Secretary General, Wamkele Mene, who outlined achievements, opportunities, and challenges as the continent is preparing to embark on the implementation of the AFCFTA Agreement. The Ministers also considered the report of the Senior Trade Officials meeting held in Addis Ababa from November 5-7.
The Ministers also deliberated extensively on the status of the implementation of the Dispute Settlement, digital trade, Trade in Goods, trade in Services, draft annexes to the Protocol on Investment, Intellectual Property Rights and the report of the National Implementation Committee, among others.
During the session, delegates engaged in a comprehensive review of the progress made since the last meeting, taking stock of the milestones reached in advancing the objectives of the AfCFTA. The discussions highlighted the positive impact the agreement would have on trade dynamics within the continent once fully implemented. The Ministers also witnessed the signing of the Cooperative Memorandum of Understanding between the AfCFTA and The Pan-African Quality Infrastructure.
The participants, while commending the potential benefits of the free trade agreement for accelerating regional integration and economic progress in Africa, candidly reflected on the challenges hampering its optimal operationalization, including lack of trade financing, infrastructure, and poor logistics, among others. They agreed on the need for capacity-building and awareness-creation programs as well as experience-sharing platforms for the full implementation of the Agreement and its foreseen benefits. The outcomes of the meeting will influence the direction and focus of the AfCFTA in the coming years.
The 15th Session of the Council of Ministers of the AfCFTA held in Addis Ababa showcased a commitment to advancing regional economic cooperation and trade integration for the collective prosperity of African nations. With collaborative efforts and shared goals, the path ahead looks promising as the continent moves towards greater economic resilience and inclusive growth through the AfCFTA framework.
The AfCFTA is now signed by 54 countries, ratified by 48 countries, and 49 countries have filed their concessional tariff offers. Upon entry into force, the AfCFTA will be the largest free trade area in the world.
The Council of Ministers plays a vital role in overseeing the implementation of the AfCFTA and ensuring that the objectives of the agreement are met. Comprising ministers responsible for trade from member states, the council meets regularly to discuss progress, challenges, and strategic priorities.
Ethiopia Presents Human Rights Report at the 47th Universal Periodic Review Session in Geneva
Ethiopia presented its national report during the 47th Session of the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) on Tuesday (November 12), at the Human Rights Council in Geneva. This marks Ethiopia’s fourth cycle of UPR participation, following its previous submission in 2019.
The Ethiopian delegation was led by Belayhun Yirga, State Minister of Justice. Other key members included Dereje Duguma, the State Minister of Health, and Teyiba Hassan, Director General of the Refugees and Returnees Service (RRS), along with officials from multiple ministries.
The session commenced with remarks from Ambassador Tsegab Kebebew, Ethiopia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva, who reaffirmed the country’s commitment to the UPR as a vital tool for enhancing governance and promoting human rights.
State Minister Belayhun Yirga presented Ethiopia’s National Report, detailing the country’s human rights progress over recent years, particularly in implementing recommendations from the previous UPR cycle. He emphasized Ethiopia’s efforts to improve human rights, promote accountability, and address socio-economic and environmental challenges, aligning with the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as outlined in the country’s Voluntary National Review reports submitted in 2017 and 2022.
Regarding the implementation of UPR recommendations, the state minister noted the establishment of a formal National Monitoring, Reporting, and Follow-up Mechanism, which integrates accepted UPR recommendations into the National Human Rights Action Plans (NHRAP). Additionally, a national human rights data collection mechanism has been created in collaboration with the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
The state minister highlighted significant government initiatives to strengthen National Human Rights Institutions (NHRIs) and the judiciary, including the re-establishment of the Ethiopian Human Rights Commission (EHRC), the reinforcement of judicial independence, the revision of electoral laws, and the simplification of Civil Society Organizations’ registration processes. He also mentioned the introduction of a new Media Law and the adoption of the National Legal Aid Strategy in 2023.
Regarding Transitional Justice and National Dialogue, the state minister highlighted the adoption of a victim-centered Transitional Justice Policy in April 2024 and the establishment of an independent National Dialogue Commission in 2021. He also referenced the Pretoria Peace Agreement, signed with the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) in November 2022, as a step toward achieving lasting peace. The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law.
In terms of socio-economic rights, the state minister highlighted the government’s commitment to civil, political, and socio-economic rights, particularly noting the milestone achievement of self-sufficiency in wheat production for the first time in 2023. The state minister further elaborated on the Green Legacy Initiative, launched in 2019, which has mobilized over 21 million volunteers to plant more than 25 billion seedlings.
He also outlined measures to prevent human trafficking and migrant smuggling, acknowledging the challenges faced in managing migration.
Delegation members provided in-depth presentations on health, education, economic and social rights, and addressing issues related to gender-based violence and internally displaced persons. Throughout the session, the delegation engaged in vibrant and interactive discussions with member states, receiving feedback and recommendations from 117 countries.
In closing remarks, Ambassador Tsegab Kebebew expressed gratitude to the Human Rights Council and participating states for their constructive contributions. He assured the Council of Ethiopia’s commitment to uphold its international human rights obligations and integrate these norms into national policies, while also expressing appreciation for the support received for Ethiopia’s elections to the Human Rights Council for the upcoming term 2025-27.
The UPR process serves as a key mechanism for countries to voluntarily undergo periodic reviews of their human rights performance, receiving feedback and recommendations from fellow UN member states.
Ethiopia, China, and UNIDO Inaugurate Center for Excellence in Addis Ababa
Ethiopia, China, and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) inaugurated the China-Africa-UNIDO Center of Excellence in Addis Ababa on Wednesday (November 6).
This pioneering initiative aims to promote sustainable industrialization, agricultural modernization, and skills development, marking the first flagship program of its kind between Ethiopia, the China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA), and UNIDO. The inauguration ceremony was attended by key figures, including UNIDO Director General Gerd Muller, Chairman of CIDCA Luo Zhaohui, and Ethiopian Minister of Industry Melaku Alebel.
The Center is designed to bring cutting-edge low-carbon technologies and expertise to Africa, aligning with strategic frameworks such as the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and Ethiopia’s Ten-Year Development Plan.
During the ceremony, Director General Muller emphasized the significance of the center, stating that it symbolizes a new era of cooperation and innovation. The center aims to enhance Ethiopia’s agri-business sector, improve market access, and contribute to the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
In his address, Minister Melaku highlighted Ethiopia’s commitment to sustainable development and expressed appreciation for the support and cooperation from China and UNIDO.
The Joint Declaration for the Center of Excellence Program, signed during the ceremony, outlines the ambitions for long-term development and collaboration. The center will focus on various sectors, including mechanized agriculture systems, renewable energy, digital technology, and green development, aiming to improve people’s well-being through development projects.
The inauguration of the Center of Excellence marks a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s journey towards industrialization and skill development. By leveraging international partnerships and cutting-edge technologies, Ethiopia aims to create a more resilient and competitive economy.
This initiative is expected to play a crucial role in achieving sustainable development goals and fostering economic growth in the region. The collaboration between Ethiopia, China, and UNIDO sets a precedent for future trilateral initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable development and innovation in Africa.
Ethiopia Hosts the 28th Ethio-Djibouti Joint Border Administrators and Commissioners’ Meeting
The 28th session of the Ethiopia-Djibouti Joint Border Administrators and Commissioners’ meeting was held in Bishoftu last week (November 7-8).
The assemblage reviewed the status of bilateral cooperation in the fields of political governance and security, trade and infrastructural interconnection, and management of the movement of people and goods. The meeting deliberated on joint response mechanisms to the diverse threats faced by both countries and provided clear directions moving forward.
Opening the meeting, Selamawit Dawit, Director General of the Immigration and Citizenship Services of Ethiopia, underlined the role of the Joint Border Administrators and Commissioners’ meeting in providing important platforms for the two countries to evaluate performances, resolve challenges, and sketch development cooperation mechanisms. According to the Director General, this regular meeting serves the ultimate objectives of facilitating harmonious interactions and improving the livelihood of communities, as well as ensuring sustainable peace along the border areas.
The Director General further stressed the need to double efforts to effectively utilize the cooperation framework to tackle challenges including irregular migration, human trafficking, illicit trading, arms smuggling, and curtailing the attempts of terrorists and anti-peace elements.
Souleiman Moumin Robleh, Head of the Djiboutian Delegation, on his part, highlighted the important role a coordinated border management could play for the maintenance of peace, stability, and security. He added that strategic border governance highly contributes to the strengthening of the historic relations that exist between the two countries, among other things, through initiating joint constructions of road and rail infrastructures, ensuring energy interconnection, facilitating border trade among the local communities, and making the movement of pastoral communities orderly.
During the deliberations, both sides pronounced commitments to implement joint mechanisms aiming at fully instituting integrated border management. In this connection, delegates of the two countries reached consensus to strengthen the existing modalities and establish new frameworks to alleviate conventional and new threats.
In this context, the two sides deliberated on preserving border security and emphasized the need to harness opportunities presented by the cordial relationships and smooth interactions among the local communities to sustain the tranquility along the border area. The meeting also gave assent to the need for enhanced cooperation among the security institutions of the two countries to jointly monitor border areas and repel threats in a coordinated manner.
In the course of the bilateral discussions, delegates further reviewed the implementations of bilateral border trade protocols, reviewing the overall performance as well as prospects for further expanding cooperation in the sector. Instituting formal border trade not only improves the livelihood of the communities along the border but also plays a pivotal role in realizing the ambitious integration projects envisaged by the two countries.
The two sides also agreed to intensify their joint efforts to capacitate the customs management bodies of both countries through the administration of tools including Single Administrative Documents (SAD), Electronic Cargo Tracking System and Smart Border Control (SBC), as well as improving the safety of trade corridors.
This periodic meeting has enabled the two countries to review the status of implementation of prior understandings and allowed the parties to deliberate on new areas of cooperation. The two sides underscored the importance of conducting such continuous engagements to address the common challenges they face and to capitalize on utilizing the untapped potentials.
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