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Recent International Communities in Ethiopia News Highlights
Oct 08, 2025
Addis Ababa, October 8, 2025 (FMC) — The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus, Constantinos Kombos, arrived in Addis Ababa this morning for an official working visit.
Upon arrival at Bole International Airport, the Minister was warmly received by Ambassador Mulie Tarekegn, Deputy Director-General for Europe and the Americas at Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During his stay, Minister Kombos will hold discussions with senior Ethiopian government officials on ways to further enhance bilateral relations and cooperation between Ethiopia and Cyprus.
The visit underscores the two countries’ shared interest in advancing partnership and strengthening diplomatic ties.
Oct 07, 2025
Addis Ababa, October 7, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia has urged the international community to strengthen global solidarity and ensure fair responsibility-sharing in addressing refugee challenges during the 76th Session of the UNHCR Executive Committee in Geneva.
Represented by Ms. Teyiba Hassen, Director General of the Refugees and Returnees Service (RRS), Ethiopia underlined the growing strain it faces as host to more than 1.1 million refugees — one of the largest refugee populations in the world.
The Ethiopian Permanent Mission in Geneva told Fana Media Corporation that the country has recently experienced a surge of emergency arrivals from South Sudan, many of whom reached Ethiopia with minimal international support.
Oct 06, 2025
Addis Ababa, October 6, 2025 (FMC) — Foreign visitors who attended this year’s Irreecha celebrations have described the festival as a truly unique and unforgettable cultural experience that showcases Ethiopia’s rich traditions, harmony, and joy.
The festival, marked by a sea of colorful attire, lively dances, and vibrant songs, brought together thousands of people at Hora Finfinne in Addis Ababa and Hora Arsedi in Bishoftu, symbolizing thanksgiving, peace, and unity among communities.
Professor Nicell McKeown from Ireland said he was deeply impressed by the beauty and diversity of the celebration. “This is a completely unique and unforgettable experience. The colors, the dances, and the energy of the people were extraordinary,” he remarked, adding that the event reflects the deep cultural wealth of Ethiopia and deserves greater global promotion.
Oct 03, 2025
Islamabad, October 3, 2025 (FMC) – Pakistan has praised Ethiopia for its achievements in food security, recognizing the country as a role model for other nations through its adoption of effective home-grown development programs.
The commendation came during a high-level meeting between Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Jemal Beker, and Pakistan’s Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, the Ethiopian Embassy in Islamabad informed FMC.
During the discussion, the two officials explored ways to boost bilateral cooperation in agriculture and livestock, laying the groundwork for future joint research aimed at increasing agricultural productivity in both countries.
Oct 02, 2025
Addis Ababa, October 2, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia and Pakistan have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen bilateral ties and expand cooperation across trade, investment, peace and security, climate change, aviation, science and technology, tourism, and culture.
This was disclosed following a meeting between Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Jemal Beker Abdula, and Pakistan’s Acting President Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, at the President House in Islamabad, the Ethiopian Embassy in Islamabad told Fana Media Corporation.
The two sides emphasized parliamentary exchanges and people-to-people contacts as key tools to enhance bilateral and multilateral engagement. They highlighted Ethiopia’s participation in the recent Green Dialogue hosted in Islamabad, which focused on joint initiatives to address climate change.
Set 27, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 27, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia hosted the 2025 China-Ethiopia Industry Matchmaking Event in its capital on Friday, reinforcing industrial cooperation and fostering policy coordination between China, Ethiopia, and other BRICS member states.
Addressing the gathering, Zhuang Rongliang, vice mayor of Xiamen City in southeast China and director-general of the BRICS Partnership on New Industrial Revolution Innovation Center (BRICS PartNIR Innovation Center), underscored the expanding trade and investment ties between Xiamen and Ethiopia.
“Since its launch two years ago, the BRICS freight air route connecting Xiamen, Addis Ababa, and Sao Paulo has completed 598 flights, facilitating $750 million in trade,” Zhuang noted, emphasizing how increased air connectivity is strengthening links across China, Africa, and South America.
Sept 30, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 30, 2025 (FMC) – The “Interwoven World” exhibition opened at the Kaifeng Art Bonding Warehouse in Hebei Province, offering Chinese audiences a vibrant showcase of Ethiopia’s artistic heritage and reinforcing cultural ties between the two nations.
Ethiopia’s ambassador to China attended the opening ceremony, where the artist presented his creative vision and shared insights into his oil paintings.
His works combine the vibrancy of African life with the depth of Ethiopian culture, creating a unique artistic dialogue that connects Ethiopian and Chinese traditions, the Ethiopian Embassy in Beijing told FMC.
Set 25, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 25, 2025 (FMC) – In a comprehensive address to the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, President Taye Atske-Selassie of Ethiopia underscored Africa’s development achievements, called for urgent global action to tackle the continent’s debt crisis, and highlighted the transformative impact of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) on energy access and regional cooperation.
President Taye highlighted Africa’s remarkable progress under Agenda 2063, noting high economic growth rates, rising domestic revenue mobilization, and climate action initiatives—including renewable energy development, emission reduction, and afforestation—that are unmatched elsewhere. Efforts to enhance public welfare, reduce inequality, and combat transnational threats have intensified across the continent.
Set 25, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 25, 2025 (FMC) — On the sidelines of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, President Taye Atske-Selassie met with His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Sabah, Crown Prince of Kuwait, to discuss strengthening bilateral relations.
The two leaders reaffirmed the historic ties between Ethiopia and Kuwait, grounded in shared values and mutual respect. The Crown Prince highlighted Ethiopia’s steadfast support to Kuwait during challenging periods, a gesture he said is deeply appreciated by the government and people of Kuwait.
Discussions focused on reactivating the 12 existing bilateral agreements and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors. Both sides emphasized Ethiopia’s potential as a regional food basket and the opportunities for transformative Kuwaiti investment in agriculture.
Set 25, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 25, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia and Russia have signed a landmark action plan to develop a nuclear power project in Ethiopia, marking a significant milestone in the two countries’ strategic partnership.
The agreement was signed between Russia’s state nuclear energy corporation Rosatom and the Ethiopian Electric Power (EEP), with Rosatom CEO Alexei Likhachev and Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos representing their respective countries.
The signing took place in the presence of Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Russian President Vladimir Putin, highlighting the high-level political support for the initiative.
According to an article by Russian Ambassador to Ethiopia Mr. Evgeny Terekhin and sent FMC via the Russian Embassy in Addis Ababa, the action plan aims to establish a peaceful nuclear energy program in Ethiopia, with a focus on clean energy generation and broader social and technological benefits.
Set 25, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 25, 2025 (FMC) — The FDRE President Taye Atske-Selassie met with UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres on the sidelines of the 80th annual.session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80) in New York, the U.S..
On the occasion, the Secretary-General congratulated Ethiopia on the inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), its recent success in hosting a climate summit and other projects.
The two sides also discussed issues of mutual interest in the region and beyond, it has been learned.
It is noteworthy that President Taye Atske-Selassie, alongside his delegation, has traveled to New York this week to participate in the ongoing UNGA 2025 and related events. He is expected to deliver his speech at the UNGA General Debate later today.
Sept 28, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 28, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia has strongly rejected what it described as unfounded and misleading claims made by Egypt regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Responding to Egypt’s remarks in the Assembly’s general debate, Ethiopia’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Yoseph Kassaye, exercised the Right of Reply and underscored that Egypt’s repeated allegations about the GERD have even been brought to the UN Security Council, despite their lack of credibility.
He stressed that Ethiopia has consistently provided responses rooted in international law, cooperation, and principle. “The stark contrast between Ethiopia’s long-standing policy of cooperation and Egypt’s continued hostility is clear,” Ambassador Yoseph said, reaffirming that Ethiopia’s position on the Nile is anchored in the universally accepted principle of equitable and reasonable utilization.
Sept 27, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 27, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia has called on BRICS member states to intensify collective action in tackling global challenges, emphasizing the need for stronger unity to promote peace, multilateralism, and sustainable development.
Speaking at the 3rd BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting held on the margins of the 80th UN General Assembly, State Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Hadera Abera commended Brazil’s leadership of the 2025 Rio Summit and thanked India for convening the session as incoming BRICS Chair for 2026.
He noted that the current global landscape, shaped by armed conflicts, humanitarian crises, and disruptions to development, disproportionately affects developing nations. Against this backdrop, he underscored that BRICS has a historic opportunity to ease tensions, foster cooperation, and champion the aspirations of the Global South.
Sept 28, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 28, 2025 (FMC) – France has hailed Ethiopia’s sweeping economic reforms, describing them as a transformative journey that is reshaping the country’s development path and strengthening its prospects for peace and prosperity.
France’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Alexis Lamek, commended the progress of Ethiopia’s Homegrown Economic Reform program, which has introduced wide-ranging changes including market liberalization, fiscal and monetary adjustments, debt restructuring, and efforts to improve the overall business environment.
“We are proud to accompany Ethiopia in this endeavor,” Ambassador Lamek said, reaffirming his country’s strong commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation. “We consider ourselves a close partner of Ethiopia and a close friend of the Ethiopian people,” he emphasized.
Sept 23, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 23, 2025 (FMC) – Chile’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Rodrigo Guzmán Barros, has praised the rapid transformation of Addis Ababa, saying the city is increasingly reflecting its role as the political and diplomatic capital of Africa.
Speaking exclusively to Fana Arabic podcast’s Sarah Bedru, the ambassador said that since his arrival in March 2023, he has witnessed significant changes in the Ethiopian capital.
He attributed this progress to the government’s strategic planning and the vision of the Prime Minister and the Mayor, which, he noted, are turning Addis Ababa into a modern African city and a model of urban development.
Recalling the long-standing ties between the two nations, Ambassador Guzmán pointed out that Ethiopia and Chile established diplomatic relations in 1945 and are celebrating their 80th anniversary this year.
Sept 23, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 23, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s push for direct access to the sea is “understandable from a security perspective,” Eritrean researcher Ali Hindi, an expert in African affairs, told Al Sharq TV, while pointing to the Eritrean regime as the main obstacle.
Hindi said Ethiopia needs a seaport to secure its supply chains and shipping routes, but Eritrea’s prolonged political crisis and reluctance to develop its ports have stalled progress. He criticized Asmara for failing to implement the 2018 peace agreement with Ethiopia, which could have facilitated port cooperation, and described 34 years of Eritrean independence as yielding little development, citing widespread migration and declining population growth as “a catastrophe for any country.”
Commenting on the recent alliance between Eritrea and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), Hindi said it appears aimed at undermining Ethiopia. He added that Asmara has exploited historical narratives portraying Ethiopia as a colonizer, while Ethiopian diplomacy has yet to counter these claims effectively.
Set 18, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 18, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia has achieved a significant milestone in its long-standing Nile water negotiations with Egypt and Sudan following the completion and inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), according to an analysis by Middle East and Africa analyst Elfadil Ibrahim in The Arab Weekly on September 17.
The GERD, located on the Abbay River in Ethiopia’s Benishangul-Gumuz region—a river that contributes over 86% of the Nile’s waters—is Africa’s largest hydroelectric project, with a generation capacity of 5,150 megawatts.
The project significantly boosts Ethiopia’s domestic energy generation and strengthens its position in regional water resource discussions.
Ibrahim noted that while Egypt has expressed concerns about potential impacts on its water supply and Sudan has raised questions regarding downstream flow management, Ethiopia emphasizes its sovereign right to use its natural resources for national development.
Sept 23, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 20, 2025 (FMC) – Members of the diplomatic community in Addis Ababa have lauded the potential of Ethiopia’s cultural diplomacy following a vibrant showcase of the nation’s heritage.
The event featured a dynamic performance by the Kin Ethiopia Arts and Cultural Group, presenting traditional music, dances, and costumes from across the country. It was organized to strengthen cultural diplomacy and give diplomats a firsthand experience of Ethiopia’s rich and diverse traditions.
Burundian Ambassador to Ethiopia Willy Nyamitwe expressed his gratitude for the invitation, emphasizing that cultural diplomacy plays a key role in fostering connections between people and nations. “Culture can bring people together,” he said, praising the dedication and hard work behind the performance. He added that Ethiopia’s commitment to leveraging its cultural assets would enhance its image globally and promote mutual understanding among nations.
Sept 19, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 19, 2025 (FMC) – International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi has pledged continued support to Ethiopia’s planned peaceful nuclear energy program and the expansion of cancer care, following bilateral talks with Minister of Innovation and Technology Belete Mola on the sidelines of the 69th IAEA General Conference in Vienna, Austria.
The discussions focused on advancing Ethiopia’s aspirations for nuclear energy, strengthening cancer treatment capacity, and promoting the use of nuclear technology in agriculture and health sectors.
Minister Belete expressed his deep appreciation for the Director General’s leadership in advancing the peaceful uses of nuclear technology globally.
Sept 18, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 18, 2025 (FKC) – President of Ethiopia Taye Atske-Selassie today received Massad Boulos, Senior Advisor for Africa at the U.S. Department of State, at the newly renovated National Palace in Addis Ababa.
The discussions covered a broad range of bilateral issues, including trade, investment, and regional matters of mutual concern to Ethiopia and the United States, the Ethiopian head of state said in a post on his social media page after his meeting with the US official.
Welcoming the U.S. delegation, President Taye underscored the historic significance of the National Palace as a repository of Africa’s diplomatic heritage, while highlighting Ethiopia’s commitment to strengthening engagement with the United States.
Sept 18, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 18, 2025 (FKC) – Ethiopian Airlines has unveiled its redesigned 2026 in-flight menu at an exclusive tasting event held today at the Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa, bringing together senior executives, premium passengers, and stakeholders to sample the airline’s latest culinary offerings.
The presentation featured both business and economy class menus for the upcoming year, crafted to meet the expectations of a diverse global customer base. The initiative forms part of Ethiopian’s broader strategy to continuously refine its services and elevate the travel experience across Africa’s largest airline network.
Ethiopian In-Flight Catering, a certified unit under Ethiopian Airlines Group, showcased a wide variety of dishes reflecting international and Ethiopian cuisines, tailored to passengers’ dietary needs and preferences. Equipped with state-of-the-art kitchens—including dedicated halal and kosher facilities—the catering division also manages duty-free services and supports scheduled, non-scheduled, VVIP, and charter flights.
Sept 17, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 17, 2025 (FMC) – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) held talks at his office today today with Massad Boulos, Senior Advisor for Africa at the U.S. Department of State.
In a post shared to his social media channels, PM Abiy said their meeting focused on.a range of issues of mutual concern.
Sept 17, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 17, 2025 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s latest book, The Medemer State, offers not only a comprehensive analysis of Ethiopia’s enduring challenges but also proposes practical, actionable solutions, according to Mr. Getachew Reda, the Prime Minister’s Adviser on East African Affairs.
The book, the fourth authored by Prime Minister Abiy, was officially unveiled yesterday in a landmark ceremony attended by President Taye Atsekeslassie, senior government officials, high-ranking military leaders, and representatives from diverse sectors of society. The launch featured in-depth discussions on the book’s themes and its significance for the nation’s future.
Sept 17, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 16, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopian Airlines Group CEO Mesfin Tasew said today that the Bishoftu Mega International Airport project is set to transform Africa’s connectivity, enhance trade, and drive economic growth across the continent.
The announcement was made during a two-day project showcase at the Ethiopian Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa, which gathered government officials, financiers, investors, contractors, and airline executives to discuss the airport’s vision, financing, and implementation strategy.
The project, according to the CEO, responds to growing pressure on Addis Ababa’s Bole International Airport, which handled nearly 20 million passengers last year and is expected to reach its maximum capacity of 25 million within the next two to three years.
Sept 17, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 12, 2025 (FMC) – *KIN Ethiopia: “Ethiopia Rising”*, a major cultural showcase by the Ethiopia Rising Art Troupe, has opened at the historic Alexandrinsky Theatre in Saint Petersburg, Russia, as part of the Ethiopian Public Diplomacy Group’s international tour.
The troupe, composed of more than 70 performers, is presenting a vibrant display of Ethiopia’s cultural heritage through traditional music, dance, fashion, and the country’s renowned coffee culture. The showcase highlights Ethiopia’s ancient civilization, historical legacy, and the diversity of its people.
Held during the annual Saint Petersburg International United Cultures Festival Week, the event has attracted significant attention from audiences and media alike, reflecting the growing global appreciation for Ethiopia’s artistic and cultural wealth. Beyond the performances, the program also aims to promote Ethiopia . . . .
Sept 17, 2025
Ethiopia Participates In 11th St. Petersburg International United Cultures Forum
Addis Ababa, September 11, 2025 (FMC) – A high-level Ethiopian delegation, led by State Minister of Culture and Sports Nefisa Almehedi, is participating in the 11th St. Petersburg International United Cultures Forum, taking place from September 11–13, 2025, in St. Petersburg, Russia.
In her address at the forum, State Minister Nefisa highlighted Ethiopia’s rich cultural diversity, describing it as a key strength that promotes unity, creativity, and resilience. She emphasized that culture serves as a bridge for dialogue, peace, and international cooperation, reaffirming Ethiopia’s commitment to fostering cultural exchange and strengthening people-to-people ties.
Sept 17, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 11, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Republic of Belarus with permanent residence in Moscow, Russia, Genet Teshome Jirru, formally presented his letter of credence to President Aleksandr Lukashenko on September 11, 2025, in Minsk.
FMC learned from the Ethiopian Embassy in Moscow that during the ceremony, President Lukashenko underscored the longstanding diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Belarus, noting that ties gained renewed momentum following the leaders’ meeting at the Kazan BRICS Summit in October 2024.
He highlighted Ethiopia’s resilience and promising future, and emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral cooperation in key areas such as agriculture, education, and technology transfer. Both sides are actively implementing a bilateral roadmap through their respective foreign ministries to advance these initiatives.
Sept 17, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 11, 2025 (FMC) – Embassies, diplomatic missions, international organizations, and envoys based in Addis Ababa have joined Ethiopians in marking the arrival of the 2018 Ethiopian New Year, extending warm wishes for peace, prosperity, and continued progress.
Ethiopians ushered in Enkutatash today, the country’s traditional New Year celebration, which falls on September 11 (or September 12 in a leap year) in the Gregorian calendar. The occasion was met with messages of solidarity and goodwill from across the diplomatic and international community.
U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia Ervin Massinga expressed hope that the year ahead would serve as a time to “renew our hopes and strengthen our bonds.” Similarly, the Russian Embassy wished Ethiopians happiness and prosperity in the new year.
The Embassy of Israel conveyed its greetings, wishing peace, love, growth, and prosperity for Ethiopians, while reaffirming Israel’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations and cooperation with Ethiopia.
Sept 17, 2025
Addis Ababa, September 10, 2025 (FMC) – The Second African Climate Summit (ACS2) concluded in Ethiopia with African leaders officially adopting the Addis Ababa Declaration on Accelerating Global Climate Solutions: Financing for Africa’s Resilient and Green Development, a landmark outcome that underscores Africa’s growing leadership in global climate action.
The Declaration was endorsed alongside the Flagship Report on African Climate Initiatives, signaling the continent’s collective determination to advance homegrown solutions and secure fair climate financing. Leaders also launched the Africa Climate Innovation Compact, a bold new framework to accelerate Africa-led strategies for a sustainable future.
Aug 31, 2025
Addis Ababa, August 31, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia will host the second Climate Week of 2025 from September 1 to 6 in Addis Ababa, under the theme “Dialogues for Ambition and Implementation”, ahead of the Second Africa Climate Summit scheduled from September 8 to 10.
The events are expected to shape both African and global climate action, providing a platform for the continent to assert its priorities in international climate discourse and mobilize climate finance.
Ethiopia’s Ministry of Planning and Development, in collaboration with the Government Communication Service and the Global Green Growth Institute, recently organized a training session in Bishoftu to raise journalists’ awareness about the upcoming summit.
Diplomatic History of Ethiopia

Ethiopia is one of the oldest civilizations in the world, with its history spanning over three thousand years. Throughout this long history, situated as it is at a veritable crossroads of Africa, the Middle East and Asia, it has enjoyed varied relations with the outside world. Friendly trading relations have alternated with conflicts with external powers that often involved bloody wars. Ethiopia's modern diplomatic history can be traced back to the reign of Emperor Theodros II in the mid nineteenth century who sought to forge strong diplomatic relations with the outside world, most notably with countries in Western Europe. His vision of a developed and prosperous Ethiopia pitted him against all sorts of enemies and sparked off the need to obtain the best scientific and technical expertise from what he justifiably considered were the most advanced nations of the day. He received a number of emissaries of western nations at his court, trying hard to get their advice and counsel on how to develop Ethiopia. In 1868, he committed suicide when defeated by a British army.
Theodros' tradition of contact with western powers was closely followed by the Emperor Yohannes IV (1874-1889) who was equally aware of the value of maintaining good relations with the rest of the world, though he too had his problems not least with the Mahdi in the Sudan and with the Italian encroachments into northern Ethiopia. Notable among the diplomatic missions during his reign were the British delegations of Augustus Wylde (1883), Vice-Admiral Hewett 1884 and Gerald Portal (1887) concerning the withdrawal of Egyptian garrisons from Sudan after the Mahdi's revolt, the British promise to hand over Massawa which had been in Egyptian hands and their subsequent gifting of it to Italy.
International Communities in Ethiopia