Addis Ababa Hosted the Second Ethiopia–Burundi Joint Ministerial Commission Meeting
Portugal’s Minister of State and Foreign Affairs Visits Ethiopia
ARC COP16 Concludes in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Takes Bureau Leadership Role
NEWS IN BRIEF
Ethiopia
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed hosted President Joseph Nyuma Boakai of the Republic of Liberia on a State Visit to Ethiopia from April 13–14, during which they held a bilateral meeting focused on strengthening cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
The President of the Republic of Burundi and current Chairperson of the African Union, Évariste Ndayishimiye, paid a two-days official visit to Ethiopia from April 9–10. This visit is part of the renewed high level engagement between Ethiopia and Burundi and aimed at strengthening political, economic, and strategic cooperation between the two countries. The visit has laid a strong foundation for solidifying the partnership between the two countries. (See article)
Prime Minister Abiy met Portugal’s Minister of State and Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel, on Tuesday (April 14), to discuss strengthening bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in key areas. The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening diplomatic engagement and advancing mutually beneficial cooperation.
Prime Minister Abiy visited Iteya town in the Arsi Zone on Thursday (April 16) for the official inauguration of the 100 MW Assela Wind Farm. The visit marked the launch of the renewable energy project, underscoring Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to expand its clean energy generation capacity.
PM Abiy received George Elombi, President of Afreximbank, on Saturday (April 11), for discussions on strengthening strategic partnerships. The meeting focused on expanding cooperation and enhancing collaboration in key areas of mutual interest.
The Second Ethiopia–Burundi Joint Ministerial Commission was held from April 7–8, in Addis Ababa. During this structured bilateral engagement, the two countries reviewed cooperation agreements and explored new areas of cooperation setting a clear, action-oriented road-map for further engagement. (See article)
Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos received Paulo Rangel, Minister of State and Foreign Affairs of the Portuguese Republic, for an official visit in Addis Ababa on Tuesday (April 14). Both sides drew on their rich historical ties, dating back to the 16th century, while articulating a shared commitment to advancing a more dynamic and forward-looking partnership. (See article)
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs launched its Human Resource Development Program on Wednesday (April 15), in the presence of Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and State Minister Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye. The initiative is designed to strengthen staff skills, knowledge, and overall performance, enhancing the Ministry’s capacity to navigate the evolving landscape of modern diplomacy.
State Minister Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye received Ambassador Hu Changchun, China’s Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, on Tuesday (April 14), for productive discussions on regional and global challenges. The two sides also discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral cooperation across various sectors.
Kenya
President William Ruto received Portugal’s Minister of State and Foreign Affairs, Paulo Rangel, at State House in Nairobi on Thursday (April 16), where they reaffirmed commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation.
Somalia
President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud was received by his Turkish counterpart, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in Istanbul on Thursday (April 16), where the two leaders discussed ways to further strengthen the bilateral relations between the two countries.
Sudan
State Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Hadera Abera participated in the Third International Conference on Sudan held in Berlin, Germany from April 15-16 where he highlighted the importance of sustained international support, stronger partnerships, and increased investment in host communities to ensure refugees can live with dignity and hope.
Africa and the African Union
The Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union convened its 1339th meeting at Ministerial level under the theme “Artificial Intelligence: Governance, Peace and Security in Africa.” The meeting, held virtually and chaired by Gedion Timothewos, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, brought together Foreign Ministers, Permanent Representatives of PSC Member States, as well as invited briefers to reflect on the growing implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for peace, security, governance, and development across the continent. (See article)
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, participated in the Third International Sudan Conference in Berlin on Wednesday (April 15), calling for coordinated international mediation efforts and sustained humanitarian support to advance a Sudanese-led political process and lasting peace.
Chairperson Youssouf was received in Paris by Emmanuel Macron on Monday (April 13) during the 3rd AU–France Strategic Dialogue. He held discussions with the President and Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs, reaffirming a strengthened Africa–Europe partnership with focus on peace and security, multilateralism, African-led solutions, and cooperation on climate, energy, and health.
President of the Republic of Burundi and Current Chairperson of the African Union Pays an Official Visit to Ethiopia
The President of the Republic of Burundi and current Chairperson of the African Union, Évariste Ndayishimiye, paid a two-days official visit to Ethiopia from April 9–10. This visit is part of the renewed high level engagement between Ethiopia and Burundi and aimed at strengthening political, economic, and strategic cooperation between the two countries. The visit has laid a strong foundation for solidifying the partnership between the two countries.
Preceded by the Second Joint Ministerial Commission Meeting between the two countries, the visit was marked by a series of high-level engagements, structured discussions, and concrete outcomes. The high level discussion between Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and President Ndayishimiye reflects a shared commitment to reinforce longstanding diplomatic relations, expand economic cooperation, promote regional peace and stability, and align positions on continental agendas. During this discussion, both leaders emphasized the need to translate strong political goodwill into practical and results-oriented partnerships.
In line with this desire, the two leaders have witnessed the signing of nine Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in various areas. These legal documents provide a structured and institutional framework for cooperation across key strategic sectors, including defense, health, education, water and energy, agriculture, economic cooperation, investment, and digital identity systems. It is worth mentioning that these MoUs signify a transition from general cooperation to sector-specific implementation, enabling both countries to leverage their complementary strengths for sustainable development and shared prosperity.
In addition to the bilateral cooperation, the visit also carried broader continental significance, given Burundi’s current role as Chair of the African Union. The discussion deliberated on a wide range of continental issues where the two countries have agreed to work in collaboration on ways of meeting continental objectives and African priorities.
Furthermore, the President has made visits to key sectors in Ethiopia. His first stop was Ethiopia’s Ministry of Defense, where he was received with a formal military ceremony led by Aisha Mohammed, Minister of Defense of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. At the Ministry of Defense, President Ndayishimiye expressed deep appreciation for the historic role of the Ethiopian National Defense Force in supporting peace and stability in Burundi. He acknowledged Ethiopia’s contribution to peacekeeping missions, particularly in Somalia. He also highlighted Ethiopia’s role in training Burundian military personnel, noting its continued importance for capacity building. On her part, the Ethiopian Defense Minister reaffirmed Ethiopia’s readiness to expand joint training programs, strengthen cooperation in military industries, and enhance institutional collaboration for regional security and peacekeeping responsibilities.
In light of strengthening cooperation in the industry and manufacturing sectors, the President and his delegation have also made a stop at the AMG Industrial Park. The visit that included a tour of heavy industry development projects, coffee and glass production facilities, demonstrates the potential for cooperation in the sector. Diversifying the cooperation between the two countries would cement the bilateral relations between the two nations.
Before concluding his visit, President Évariste Ndayishimiye honored the Adwa heroes at the Adwa Victory Memorial. Overall, this visit of President Évariste Ndayishimiye to Addis Ababa marks a turning point in Ethiopia–Burundi relations, and represents a shift from political goodwill to actionable cooperation.
Addis Ababa Hosted the Second Ethiopia–Burundi Joint Ministerial Commission Meeting
The Second Ethiopia–Burundi Joint Ministerial Commission was held from April 7–8, in Addis Ababa. During this structured bilateral engagement, the two countries reviewed cooperation agreements and explored new areas of cooperation setting a clear, action-oriented road-map for further engagement.
The Ethiopian delegation was led by Gedion Timothewos, Minister of Foreign Affairs, while the Burundian delegation was headed by Edouard Bizimana, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Development Cooperation. Representatives from various Ministries of the two countries attended the two day meeting.
During the meeting, Foreign Minister Gedion stated that Ethiopia attaches great importance to its bilateral relations with the Republic of Burundi. He noted that the longstanding ties between Ethiopia and Burundi have steadily grown in both depth and breadth that can be reflected through, among other things, frequent high-level engagements, including at the leadership level, as well as closer coordination on issues of mutual concern across various multilateral platforms. By mentioning the current leadership role of Burundi both in AU and Nile-Com, he expressed Ethiopia’s unwavering commitment to the Nile Basin Cooperation process and for the full implementation of the Cooperative Framework Agreement. He further reiterated that Ethiopia stands ready to extend its full support to Burundi in the discharge of its responsibilities as Chair of the Nile-COM.
Similarly, the Burundian Foreign Minister, Edouard Bizimana, stressed the significance of convening the Joint Ministerial Commission as a means of ensuring structured and fruitful engagement in the spirit of Pan-African brotherhood. In addition, he expressed that Burundi and Ethiopia face common challenges that requires a concerted effort between the two countries to be addressed. Likewise, there also exists an immense opportunity that is waiting to be exploited between the two countries. Against this backdrop, he emphasized that the JMC represents a valuable opportunity to revitalize and strengthen Ethiopia and Burundi partnership in areas of common interest.
Over the two days, officials from both countries held a thorough assessment of the implementation of decisions made during the previous session and deliberated on ways of enhancing existing cooperation while identifying new areas of engagement. Among the new cooperation areas the two countries have explored include emerging areas such as digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and labor mobility.
In terms of economic cooperation, the meeting noted that trade between the two nations remains minimal and below its actual potential. Although the role of Ethiopian Airlines in connecting the two peoples is commendable, both sides agreed that much more needs to be done to fully utilize the existing opportunities.The meeting also addressed limitations on implementations of previous agreements in different sectors and committed to ensure proper implementation going forward.
Throughout the discussion, both countries reaffirmed their strong political and security ties, agreeing to enhance defense cooperation, expand diplomatic presence, and support regional stability initiatives. They also underscored the need to translate their strong political relations into tangible economic outcomes. The meeting ended by negotiating and finalizing close to nine Memoranda of Understandings that were signed on the next day during the visit of the President of Burundi to Ethiopia.
AUPSC Convenes Ministerial Meeting on Artificial Intelligence, Governance, Peace and Security in Africa
The Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union convened its 1339th meeting at Ministerial level under the theme “Artificial Intelligence: Governance, Peace and Security in Africa.” The meeting, held virtually and chaired by Gedion Timothewos, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, brought together Foreign Ministers, Permanent Representatives of PSC Member States, as well as invited briefers to reflect on the growing implications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) for peace, security, governance, and development across the continent.
In his opening remarks, Minister Gedion, Chair of the PSC for the month of April 2026, noted that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly reshaping governance, economic development, and security worldwide and in the continent. The Minister underlined that AI presents both opportunities and challenges for Africa. When harnessed responsibly, he said, it can strengthen conflict prevention, enhance early warning mechanisms, support mediation efforts, and improve governance systems across the continent. At the same time, he cautioned that the misuse of AI could exacerbate disinformation, cybercrime, and potential exploitation by terrorist and criminal networks, underscoring the need for appropriate regulatory frameworks.
The Minister further emphasized the importance of building on the African Union Artificial Intelligence Strategy and welcomed the establishment of the AU Advisory Group on Artificial Intelligence, Peace and Security. He also noted the designation of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed as the AU Champion on Artificial Intelligence and Digital Health, reflecting growing political commitment to advancing the continent’s digital agenda.
The Council also received an introductory statement by Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, on behalf of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission as well as the briefings delivered by Worku Gachena Negera, Director General of the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute; Samson Itodo, Chairperson of the AU Advisory Group on Artificial Intelligence; and Bernardo Mariano Junior, Assistant Secretary-General and Chief Information Technology Officer of the United Nations Office of Information and Communications Technology.
In his introductory remarks, Commissioner Bankole Adeoye highlighted the progress made by the AU Commission in advancing the development of a Common African Position on the impact of Artificial Intelligence in the realm of peace and security. The Commissioner further underscored Africa’s sovereign right to shape the governance and application of emerging technologies in line with its values and priorities. He also welcomed the designation of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed as African Union Champion for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Health, reaffirming the Commission’s full support for the effective discharge of his mandate.
DG Worku Gachena briefed the Council on Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to harness AI in support of governance, stability and public service delivery. He outlined practical applications, including the development of smart court systems, smart policing, and the use of AI to strengthen early warning mechanisms.
Samson Itodo, for his part, provided an update on the work of the Advisory Group, including the preparation of policy briefs to support the development of the Common African Position. He emphasized the importance of finalizing this process and called for the gradual and context specific integration of AI into the African Peace and Security Architecture. Assistant Secretary-General and Chief Information Technology Officer of the United Nations Office of Information and Communications Technology, Mr. Bernardo Mariano Junior outlined the ongoing efforts within the United Nations to promote safe, ethical, and inclusive development and governance of Artificial Intelligence.
While delivering Ethiopia’s national statement, Ambassador Hirut Zemene, Permanent Representative of Ethiopia to the African Union and United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, highlighted the potential of AI to strengthen Africa’s Peace and Security Architecture, including through enhanced early warning systems, preventive diplomacy, and improved analytical capacities. Ambassador Hirut further highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to harness AI in support of governance and public service delivery, noting initiatives that integrate AI-based solutions into government systems and enhance public safety through data-driven approaches. She also emphasized Ethiopia’s focus on building human capital and technological expertise through initiatives aimed at advancing research, education, and digital skills development in areas such as artificial intelligence, data science, and cyber security.
Discussions during the meeting were guided by a set of forward-looking objectives which included assessing global trends in artificial intelligence governance and their implications for African sovereignty, peace and security; examining both the opportunities and risks associated with the application of AI in governance, peace and security contexts on the continent; and exploring practical pathways for integrating AI-enabled tools into the African Union’s conflict prevention, mediation, and peace support efforts, while positioning Africa more effectively in the evolving global AI landscape.
Members of the Council underscored the need to harness AI in support of the African Union’s peace and security architecture, while preserving Africa’s sovereign right to shape and utilize these technologies in line with its priorities. In this regard, emphasis was placed on strengthening the continent’s capacities in digital infrastructure, research, education, and innovation, as well as enhancing Africa’s meaningful participation in global AI governance processes. Particular attention was also given to the role of AI in preventive diplomacy, including its potential to support early warning systems, detect emerging threats, and counter misinformation and hate speech.
Portugal’s Minister of State and Foreign Affairs Visits Ethiopia
Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos received Paulo Rangel, Minister of State and Foreign Affairs of the Portuguese Republic, for an official visit in Addis Ababa on Tuesday (April 14). Both sides drew on their rich historical ties, dating back to the 16th century, while articulating a shared commitment to advancing a more dynamic and forward-looking partnership.
The discussions set a clear direction toward strengthening structured political consultations and expanding cooperation across key sectors. Both Ministers emphasized the importance of translating longstanding goodwill into tangible outcomes, particularly in trade, investment, tourism, and sustainable development. Ethiopia’s on-going reform agenda and improving investment climate featured prominently as enablers of deeper economic engagement.
Enhanced connectivity emerged as a standout theme. The direct flight between Addis Ababa and Porto already reshapes how people, ideas, and businesses move between the two countries. Both Ministers see it not just as a route, but as a bridge, one that brings communities closer and opens doors for tourism and commercial exchange.
The two sides also identified renewable energy especially geothermal, wind, and solar and climate action as a promising area for joint work. Ethiopia highlighted its growing momentum in green development initiatives, while Portugal shared its experience in water management and climate action, including its “Water that Unites” strategy.
On regional and global matters, Ethiopia and Portugal highlighted a strong alignment of perspectives, reaffirming that distance and time zone differences are no barrier to shared understanding on key geopolitical matters. Both sides further committed to deepening cooperation within multilateral fora. Migration also featured prominently, with a focus on advancing legal pathways, strengthening labour mobility frameworks, and addressing root causes through cooperative and balanced approaches.
Cultural and educational cooperation further enriched the engagement. Portugal’s continued support for language training initiatives in Ethiopia opens additional avenues for academic exchange and capacity building, particularly for students in language, literature, and history.
The visit reflected a shared resolve that responds to current priorities and contributes to long-term mutual benefit.
ARC COP16 Concludes in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia Takes Bureau Leadership Role
The 16th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP16) of the African Risk Capacity (ARC) Agency, hosted by the Government of Ethiopia in Addis Ababa, concluded following two days of high-level deliberations from April 8-9.
Temesgen Tiruneh, Deputy Prime Minister of Ethiopia addressed the opening session of the ministerial segment on Thursday (April 9). During the Occasion, the Deputy Prime Minister underscored that “We must continue to advocate for stronger global cooperation. But we must also strengthen our own systems. Mechanisms like the African Risk Capacity are essential. They represent African solidarity in action.” He added that “For ARC to succeed, it will require political will, sustainable financing, and strong technical capacity. It must be supported as a pillar of African solidarity and sovereignty.”
Ambassador Selma Malika Haddadi, Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission who also delivered a Statement at the opening session underscored the urgency of strengthening continental institutions like ARC to protect African economies from the disproportionate impacts of global climate change, noting that its minimal contribution to global emissions.
The Conference that kicked off on Wednesday (April 8) with an intensive session of Senior Government Officials brought together ministers and senior officials from across 39 Member States to solidify a unified African response to escalating environmental shocks and resulting disaster risks. It redefined the continent’s approach toward climate change and disaster risk management.
The Session undertook a comprehensive review of the state of the Agency and adopted the reports of the ARC Bureau, the ARC Governing Board, and the ARC Secretariat, as well as the 2026 Programme of Work, budget and contribution framework to address the organization’s financial challenges. The session also deliberated on important matters, including the election of new members of the ARC Bureau.
During the occasion, Ethiopia was elected as the First Vice-Chair of the Bureau of the COPrepresenting Eastern African region, a role that positions it at the forefront of driving ARC’s strategic priorities during its tenure.
This session culminated in a comprehensive Report and Recommendations that set the stage for institutional transformation. Chief among these was the adoption of a new, sustainable financial model for annual membership contribution, ensuring that the agency is powered by African capital to address African needs. Furthermore, the Senior Officials endorsed a decisive roadmap for the ARC Secretariat to achieve full institutional independence by December 2027.
A central highlight of the conference was a high-level side event entitled “Aligning for Sovereignty: Strengthening Continental Member State’s Collaboration towards African Solutions to Africa’s Climate Change Challenges.” This panel discussion, which was jointly organized by the Ethiopian Disaster Risk Management Commission (EDRMC) and the Africa Risk Capacity (ARC) Group, allowed Ethiopia to share transformative lessons from its flagship Green Legacy Initiative, which has seen the planting of over 48 billion seedlings to restore degraded landscapes, humanitarian Relief sovereignty, food sovereignty among others.
Speakers highlighted that the success of the GLI and other flagship agricultural initiatives in Ethiopia like the Irrigated Wheat Initiative and Ye Lemat Turufat (Bounty of the Basket) program is due to the visionary leadership and close oversight of the leadership. Delegates explored how such nature-based solutions could be integrated with sovereign risk insurance to create a multi-layered protection against environmental crises. Participants emphasized the importance of African-led solutions, strengthened cooperation, and knowledge sharing among Member States. The session underscored that Ethiopia’s shift toward resilience-based green development serves as a useful model for the entire continent in achieving climate resilience, food sovereignty and agricultural transformation.
The Conference deliberated on the report and recommendations presented by the Senior Officials, and concluded with the adoption of critical institutional reforms and strategic directions aimed at ensuring ARC’s long-term sustainability and independence. Key decisions included the endorsement of a new membership fee structure and a clear roadmap for the strengthening of the ARC Secretariat.
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