First BRICS Foreign Ministers Meeting for 2025 Conducted in Rio de Janeiro
Ethiopia participates in AUSSOM Troop Contributing Countries Extraordinary Summit
Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia Hold Trade and Investment Forum
Boeing Inaugurates African Office in Addis Ababa
NEWS IN BRIEF
Ethiopia
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has inaugurated the Mesob One-Stop Service Center on Saturday (April 26), revealing that twelve institutions have begun offering 40 different services under one roof, enabling citizens to save time and access services more efficiently. Following this, on Wednesday (April 30), President Taye Atske Selassie, accompanied by State Ministers of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Hadera Abera and Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye as well as members of the diplomatic community based in Addis Ababa and heads of international organizations, visited the center.
Prime Minister Abiy inaugurated the renovated Kazanchis segment on Tuesday (April 22), one of Addis Ababa’s oldest areas, now transformed under the second phase of the city’s Beautification and Corridor Development Project. (See article)
Prime Minister Abiy has received a message from the president of Angola, João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço by his special envoy Téte António, Minister of External Relations of the Republic of Angola, who delivered a message on behalf of the President on Thursday (May 1).
The first BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting for 2025 was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on April 28 and 29, with a delegation led by Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos participating in the discussions. (See article)
The inaugural meeting of the Ethio-Saudi Business Council, the Second Ethiopia-Saudi Business Forum, and B2B discussions took place on Tuesday (April 22) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event was organized by the Ethiopian Embassy in Riyadh in collaboration with the Federation of Saudi Chambers of Commerce. It brought together leaders from the Ethiopian Chamber and sectoral associations, the Federation of Saudi Chambers, members of the Joint Business Council, and business communities from both countries. (See article)
Boeing, the leading global aerospace company, officially inaugurated its African headquarters in Addis Ababa on Tuesday (April 22), aiming to serve as the company’s administrative hub for the region. (See article)
State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye received in his office Stian Christensen, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Norway to Ethiopia, on Wednesday (April 30), where they held discussions on further strengthening the cordial relations between Ethiopia and Norway.
Ethiopia participated in the 2025 Conferences of the Parties (COPs) to the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm (BRS) Conventions held in Geneva, with a delegation led by Engineer Lelise Neme, Director General of the Ethiopian Environmental Protection Authority (EPA), on Wednesday (April 30).
The three-day Innovation Africa 2025 Summit held in Addis Ababa from April 29 to May 1, which addressed critical issues such as national strategies for enhancing quality education, skills development, teacher training, capacity building, and the integration of digital technologies, among others.
Djibouti
Djiboutian Foreign Minister Abdoulkader Houssein Omar spoke by telephone Sunday (April 27) with his new Somali counterpart, Abdisalam Abdi Ali, reaffirming commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
On an official visit to Kuwait, FM Abdoulkader Houssein Omar was received on Monday (April 28) by his Kuwaiti counterpart, Abdullah Ali Al-Yahya and held talks with the acting Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior of the State of Kuwait, Sheikh Fahad Youssef Al-Sabah.
Somalia
On Sunday (April 27), Prime Minister Hamza Abdi Barre conducted a cabinet reshuffle: Ahmed Moallim Fiqi Ahmed moved from Foreign Affairs to become Minister of Defence; Jibril Abdirashid Haji Abdi was appointed Second Deputy Prime Minister; and Abdisalan Abdi Ali Daay assumed the role of Foreign Minister.
Minister of Labor Yusuf Mohamed Abdulle participated on Monday (April 28) in the Innovation Africa 2025 Ministerial Summit in Addis Ababa, focusing on education, technology, and skills development to shape a brighter future for youth.
South Sudan
South Sudan resumed oil production and exports via Sudan on Wednesday (April 30) following the completion of repairs to a previously damaged pipeline.
The UN Security Council on Wednesday (April 30) extended the mandate of the UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) for 9 days, until May 9, with the short-term extension approved unanimously.
Sudan
Sudan’s leader, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, met Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in Cairo on Monday (April 28) for talks on bilateral and regional areas of mutual interest.
Africa and the African Union
An Ethiopian delegation led by Defense Minister Ayisha Mehamed Musa took part in the Extraordinary Summit of the Heads of State and Government of the Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), plus Somalia, held in Entebbe, Uganda, on Friday (April 25). (See article)
Chairperson of the AU Commission Mahmoud Ali Youssouf met on Wednesday (April 30) in Addis Ababa with Gabonese Foreign Minister Régis Onanga Ndiaye, welcoming Gabon’s peaceful return to constitutional order and the AU Peace and Security Council’s decision to lift its suspension.
The Chairperson also met on Tuesday (April 29) with UN Special Envoy for the Great Lakes Region Huang Xia, discussing mediation efforts in eastern DRC and stressing the need for coordinated regional and international peacemaking.
Premier Unveils the Kasanchis Segment of the Corridor Development Project, Setting the Stage for the Evolution of a Smart City
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed inaugurated the renovated Kazanchis segment on Tuesday (April 22), one of Addis Ababa’s oldest areas, now transformed under the second phase of the city’s Beautification and Corridor Development Project.
Speaking at the inauguration, the Prime Minister emphasized the dramatic change from the area’s previous slum-like condition to a modern urban center, describing it as a source of national pride and a step toward future development.
“A few months ago, Kazanchis was vastly different—unfit for habitation” he remarked. He attributed its previous condition to decades of unplanned, haphazard development that left behind inadequate infrastructure and a degraded urban environment. “This understanding led us to include Kazanchis in the second phase of the corridor project,” he said, adding that the transformation achieved within months is a testament to what is possible with focused effort.
The corridor development initiative seeks to revitalize key parts of Addis Ababa by turning them into modern, sustainable, and livable urban spaces. The project aims to tackle the city’s rapid urbanization challenges by improving infrastructure, expanding green spaces, and enhancing residents’ quality of life.
The Prime Minister also noted the positive impressions shared by international visitors. “The comments we receive from foreign guests are encouraging. They see a city filled with hope and a solid foundation for smart city development,” he said. He added that the project envisions a city equipped with clean water, green areas, and safe recreational spaces for children.
Two days later, on Monday (April 24), a recognition banquet was held to honor those who contributed to the project. During the event, Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie announced that the first phase of the Kazanchis corridor was completed within five months and met the required standards.
Mayor Adanech highlighted that Kazanchis had been a run-down and uncomfortable neighborhood for its residents. “The revitalization has not only improved living conditions but also enhanced the city’s visual appeal,” she said. She stressed that such projects are critical to Addis Ababa’s development, adding, “What we have achieved in Kazanchis renews hope, especially for younger generations. It sets a precedent for future urban transformation across the city and beyond.”
The Addis Ababa City Corridor Development Project, launched in December 2022, is part of a broader strategy to upgrade the city’s infrastructure, including roads, pedestrian and bicycle paths, parks, and housing. As Africa’s diplomatic capital, home to the African Union, the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, and various embassies, Addis Ababa stands to benefit from modernized infrastructure that supports both residents and international engagement.
First BRICS Foreign Ministers Meeting for 2025 Conducted in Rio de Janeiro
The first BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting for 2025 was held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on April 28 and 29, with a delegation led by Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos participating in the discussions.
It is worth recalling that Brazil assumed the BRICS presidency for 2025 under the theme “Strengthening Global South Cooperation for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance.” Key priority areas for the year include the reform of global governance and enhanced cooperation among countries of the Global South. Within this framework, issues such as climate change, the reform of international financial institutions, artificial intelligence governance, and the institutional development of BRICS have been identified as areas of special focus. The Ministerial Meeting, which followed a preceding Sherpa meeting, involved high-level policy discussions on three key topics.
In the first session, titled “The Role of BRICS in Addressing Global and Regional Crises and Advancing Pathways to Peace and Security,” ministers exchanged views on the challenges facing institutions of global governance and proposed reforms. These included reform proposals for the international financial system, the UN Security Council, and the UN General Assembly.
Referring to current global tensions and the risk of conflict among major powers, Ethiopia recognized the efforts of BRICS countries to seek peaceful and diplomatic solutions. Minister Gedion emphasized that for reforms to be sustainable, they must effectively advance the security, economic, and overall interests of the Global South. The discussions complemented key elements of the Pact for the Future, the landmark outcome of the UN “Summit of the Future” held in September 2024 under the co-chairmanship of Germany and Namibia.
During the second session, “Reforming International Institutions for More Inclusive and Sustainable Governance,” ministers agreed that reform efforts should focus on strengthening the UN-centered multilateral system. Ethiopia underscored that in light of emerging global challenges, multilateralism under the United Nations has regained critical importance. Minister Gedion highlighted the responsibility of BRICS countries to lead by example, using their collective voice to push for a global system that is inclusive, fair, and effective. He further stressed that global governance reform must prioritize equitable representation for developing countries, particularly from Africa.
In the final session, “The Role of the Global South in Reinforcing Multilateralism,” Minister Gedion reflected on the historical role of the Global South in advancing nonalignment and promoting the principles of the UN Charter. These include decolonization, peaceful dispute resolution, friendly relations among nations, the right to development, and global peace and security.
He emphasized the importance of South-South cooperation, which leverages the comparative advantages of Global South countries in areas such as agriculture, energy, technology, ICT, defense, trade, and connectivity. He also stressed that competing global interests must be managed through solidarity, without compromising unified positions on matters of global significance.
In addition to the nine BRICS countries, foreign ministers and senior representatives from BRICS Partner Countries—including Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Nigeria, Thailand, Uzbekistan, and Uganda—attended the second day of the meeting. The Ministerial meeting concluded with a “Chair’s Summary” of the discussions.
The meeting also facilitated bilateral engagements. Minister Gedion held productive discussions with his counterparts and representatives from Brazil, China, Russia, Thailand, and the United Arab Emirates, focusing on expanding bilateral cooperation and launching tangible joint initiatives. He also met with the Vice President of the Brazilian aerospace company Embraer, which is in the process of establishing a partnership with Ethiopian Airlines.
The BRICS Ministerial meeting was held at a critical moment, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced global partnerships to meet agreed targets on sustainable development, climate action, and international peace and security. The meeting sets the stage for the upcoming BRICS Leaders’ Summit.
Ethiopia participates in AUSSOM Troop Contributing Countries Extraordinary Summit
An Ethiopian delegation led by Defense Minister Ayisha Mehamed Musa took part in the Extraordinary Summit of the Heads of State and Government of the Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), plus Somalia, held in Entebbe, Uganda, on Friday (April 25).
The meeting was chaired by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni of the Republic of Uganda. The Summit was preceded by Ministerial and Senior Officials’ meetings held from April 22–24 in Kampala, which adopted several recommendations for the Summit’s consideration. The Summit proposed a way forward on Somalia’s security situation, AUSSOM’s exit plan, and funding issues.
The meeting was attended by President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud of the Federal Government of Somalia, senior government representatives of the Troop Contributing Countries, Chairperson of the African Union Commission Mohamoud Ali Youssouf, and other officials and representatives from regional and international organizations.
In her statement, Defense Minister Ayisha commended the remarkable progress made by the Federal Government of Somalia in achieving political stability, inclusivity, and the fight against Al-Shabaab. She reiterated Ethiopia’s steadfast commitment to supporting Somalia’s efforts against Al-Shabaab.
At the Ministerial meeting preceding the Summit, Minister Ayisha highlighted the importance of securing adequate, sustainable, and predictable financing for the new mission and acknowledged the efforts made by the African Union and the United Nations in this regard. She also commended the TCCs, the AU, and partners for their continued contributions to peace, security, and stability in Somalia.
The Troop Contributing Countries acknowledged Somalia’s progress in political and security sectors and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting its stabilization in the spirit of Pan-Africanism. The Summit endorsed proposals to enhance air assets and capabilities and to strengthen Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) in a coordinated manner. It was agreed to increase bilateral troop contributions from TCCs and Somalia to address the current threat from Al-Shabaab. The role of both traditional and non-traditional partners in supporting AUSSOM and Somalia was also welcomed. The Summit concluded with the adoption of a communiqué reflecting the consensus reached between Somalia and the TCCs.
Ethiopia has remained a major troop-contributing country to African Union-led missions in Somalia since 2007. Alongside other TCCs, Ethiopia has made significant sacrifices to stabilize Somalia through AMISOM and ATMIS, and it continues its efforts through the current AUSSOM mission.
Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia Hold Trade and Investment Forum
The inaugural meeting of the Ethio-Saudi Business Council, the Second Ethiopia-Saudi Business Forum, and B2B discussions took place on Tuesday (April 22) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event was organized by the Ethiopian Embassy in Riyadh in collaboration with the Federation of Saudi Chambers of Commerce. It brought together leaders from the Ethiopian Chamber and sectoral associations, the Federation of Saudi Chambers, members of the Joint Business Council, and business communities from both countries.
Three separate events were held. The first was the Ethiopian and Saudi Arabian Joint Business Council (JBC) meeting, aimed at identifying business opportunities in both countries and discussing ways to enhance trade and investment relations.
This was followed by the Ethio-Saudi Business Forum, attended by over 150 participants, including government officials and business leaders from both countries. The forum featured presentations on trade and investment opportunities, policies, and incentives available in both nations. The final event was the B2B session, which facilitated closer cooperation between the business communities of both sides.
During the event, Ethiopia’s State Minister for the Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration, Abdulhakim Mulu, invited Saudi investors to explore opportunities in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, mining, ICT, tourism, construction, and logistics. He highlighted Ethiopia’s rapid economic growth and the government’s commitment to creating a favorable investment climate. He also noted that the limited trade and investment between the two countries reflect untapped opportunities. Similarly, Sebsib Abafra, President of the Ethiopian Chambers and Sectoral Associations, emphasized the potential for both sides to capitalize on existing opportunities.
On the Saudi side, Hassan Al-Huwaizi, President of the Federation of Saudi Chambers of Commerce, stated that Ethiopia’s government initiatives align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy, which aims to strengthen economic ties with African nations and explore new investment opportunities. He acknowledged Ethiopia’s potential as a favorable investment destination and a key trade gateway to Africa, particularly in agriculture, food industries, mining, and real estate.
Ethiopian Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Muktar Kedir, noted that Ethiopia’s relationship with Saudi Arabia is based on centuries of shared history and mutual respect. He reaffirmed the Embassy’s commitment to supporting the strengthening of ties, particularly in business-to-business relations. He also invited the Saudi business community to participate in the upcoming “Invest in Ethiopia” International Forum, scheduled to take place at the Addis Ababa International Conference Centre.
Ambassador Negus Kebede, Director General for Middle East, Asia, and Pacific Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, presented on Ethiopia’s investment opportunities, explaining the favorable conditions for foreign investors in sectors such as agriculture, technology, mining, manufacturing, and tourism. Meleket Sahl, Vice Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Investment Holdings, also provided valuable insights into the government’s initiatives in these areas. Both officials invited the Saudi side to engage in trade, investment, and tourism in Ethiopia.
The Ethiopian-Saudi Business Council meeting serves as a platform to enhance economic and investment cooperation between Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia. The forum marked the first event since the establishment of the Ethio-Saudi Business Council in June 2024 in Addis Ababa. Both sides agreed to exchange business information and collaborate for mutual benefit.
Boeing Inaugurates African Headquarters in Addis Ababa
Boeing, the leading global aerospace company, officially inaugurated its African headquarters in Addis Ababa on Tuesday (April 22), aiming to serve as the company’s administrative hub for the region.
The inauguration ceremony, held in Ethiopia’s capital, was attended by several high-profile figures, including Minister of Transport and Logistics Alemu Sime and President of Boeing Middle East, Türkiye, Africa and Central Asia Kuljit Ghata-Aura, U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia Ervin Massinga, Director General of the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority Getachew Mengistu, and Ethiopian Airlines CEO Mesfin Tasew, among other executives.
In his address, Minister Alemu described the opening of Boeing’s African office in Addis Ababa as a key step toward realizing a global vision of a connected and prosperous Africa. He highlighted Ethiopia’s advancing capabilities in transport and logistics, emphasizing ongoing infrastructure modernization efforts spearheaded by the National Transport Council. The country is currently implementing a ten-year strategic roadmap aimed at reducing transport and trade-related costs and fostering continental integration, noted the Minister.
Minister Alemu also praised Boeing’s leadership for their confidence in Ethiopia, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthening cooperation in manufacturing aircraft components, aviation training, and sustainable aviation fuel technologies. He reiterated Ethiopia’s vision to transform Ethiopian Airlines into a global supply chain leader through joint efforts and make Addis Ababa the epicenter of African aerospace innovation.
Boeing Middle East, Türkiye, Africa and Central Asia, President Kuljit Ghata-Aura also emphasized Boeing’s long-term commitment to Africa. “Boeing’s expanded footprint in Africa is a testament to our commitment to the region’s aerospace industry,” he said. He noted that the new headquarters would foster stronger collaboration with more than 60 African airline clients, enhance safety standards, develop strategic partnerships, and support the continued growth of Africa’s aviation sector, a vital contributor to the continent’s economy.
Henok Teferra Shawl, a former senior executive at Ethiopian Airlines and former Ethiopian Ambassador to several European states, has been appointed Managing Director of Boeing Africa and will lead the new office in Addis Ababa. In an interview with local media, Henok noted that Boeing has decided to base its African headquarters in Addis Ababa considering Ethiopia’s remarkable achievements in the aviation sector and its strategic position as a continental hub.
In August 2021, Ethiopian Airlines Group and the Boeing company entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at positioning Ethiopia as a central aviation hub for the continent under the shared vision: “Ethiopia for Africa.” The MoU reflects the shared commitment of Boeing and Ethiopian Airlines to building a world-class aviation partnership that ensures mutual benefit.
The inauguration of Boeing’s African headquarters is therefore expected to further solidify Ethiopia’s role as the continent’s leading aviation hub, paving the way for deeper collaboration with Ethiopian Airlines and broader industrial and logistical development across Africa, while also creating valuable opportunities for continental connectivity.
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