Ethiopia Condemns Terrorist Attack in Moscow
Ethiopia, through a press release via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned “the barbaric and heinous terrorist attack against innocent civilians” on March 22, 2024, at the Crocus City Concert Hall, Moscow, the Russian Federation.
“Ethiopia extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of those killed in the terrorist attack and to the Government of the Russian Federation,” the Ministry’s press release stated.
MFA Ethiopia also underscored that terrorism is a grave danger to mankind and requires the concerted effort of countries around the world to prevent such loss of life.
“Ethiopia stands in solidarity with the Government and People of the Russian Federation in this difficult time and it can count on Ethiopia’s full support in the fight against terrorism.”
Russian Media reported today that the death toll has risen to 115.
Premier Welcomes Maltese Foreign Minister
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) received Ian Borg, Maltese Minister for Foreign Affairs, EU Affairs & Trade.
“Welcome back to Ethiopia, Ian Borg,” reads Prime Minister Abiy’s post on social media.
PM Abiy stressed that the ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between Ethiopia and Malta across various sectors will continue to grow.
Recall that the first Ethiopia–Malta Business forum was held in Addis Ababa on March 12, 2024, with the presence of dignitaries from both nations, delegates from 16 Maltese companies, private sector representatives, and various stakeholders.
Private Sector Plays A Vital Role In Ethiopia’s Economy: PM Abiy Ahmed
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has engaged in discussion with loyal high taxpayers and businesses to address issues crucial to them as stakeholders.
The Premier underscored: “The private sector, particularly loyal high taxpayers, plays a vital role in our nation’s economy.”
Premiere Abiy’s Public Consultations Signify the Government’s Commitment to upholding home-grown solutions to facilitate nationwide dialogue
The past couple of weeks, the Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, H.E. Abiy Ahmed Ali, held a cascade of public consultations with representatives of the various regional states and leaders of the major religions in the country.
The Premiere throughout the series of discussions with the zonal community representatives and religious elders and fathers listened to the concerns of the public on the need to address matters of importance to them including peace, development and gradually, prosperity.
Accordingly, PM Abiy met with representatives from the various zones in Amhara, Somali, Afar, Harari, Gambella, Benishangul-Gumuz South West, Central, South, Sidama and Tigray regional states as well as Dire Dawa and Addis Ababa Cities.
In the same token, the Prime Minister also conferred with members of the Holy Synod of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, the Ethiopian Evangelical Council and member churches and the Ethiopian Islamic Affairs Supreme Council.
He also had an audience with the representatives of the private sector, particularly loyal high taxpayers that play a vital role in the nation’s economy. During the discussions, Premiere Abiy took note of topical issues crucial to them as stakeholders.
Ministry Says Addis Is Becoming Leading Diplomatic Center
Cape Verde and Armenia recently opened their embassies in Addis Ababa, bringing the total number of diplomatic missions in the metropolis to 134, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) announced.
At a weekly press briefing he held here yesterday, the newly-appointed MoFA Spokesperson Nebiyu Tedla said that the opening of the two embassies is an indication of Addis Ababa’s growing place in continental and global diplomacy.
Following the opening of the two embassies, the total number of missions in Addis Ababa has reached 134, of which 52 African countries have been running legations here. Last week, the two countries’ ambassadors presented their credentials to President Sahlework Zewde along with 15 other envoys.
Addis Ababa’s diplomatic prowess is growing as a number of countries have been opening their embassies in the metropolis. Countries that had no official diplomatic relations with Ethiopia are now engaged with the East African nation in bilateral and multilateral areas of mutual benefits, Nebiyu elaborated.
The spokesperson further stated that Malta’s Foreign Minister will pay an official visit to Ethiopia after a few days. “The Ethio- Malta Business Forum was held here recently and their diplomatic and economic ties have intensified since the latter’s opening of the embassy in Addis Ababa and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s (PhD) visit to Valetta.
The Maltase government is providing training for Ethiopian naval forces and its businesses have shown a growing desire to explore the East African country’s trade and investment potential, he remarked.
FM Taye Meets with AU High-Level Panel On Sudan
Foreign Minister of Ethiopia Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie received this afternoon AU High-Level Panel on Sudan, led by Muhammad Ibn Chambas.
Note that the high-level panel is convened by the African Union’s Peace and Security Council for the purpose of finding a lasting resolution to the crisis in the Sudan.
The panel briefed the Foreign Minister about the recent shuttle diplomacy missions and consultations it conducted.
In response, Ambassador Taye highlighted the critical need for a Sudanese owned and AU led peace process that is all inclusive to adress the current crisis in the Sudan.
The importance of Ethiopia’s continued and robust contribution to peace efforts in the Sudan was underscored by Muhammad Ibn Chambas.
Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie also urged that enough attention be given to the dire situation caused by the crisis, which has led to significant internal displacement and refugee flows, underlining this as a critical area of concern.
He assured members of the panel that Ethiopia will support and back the AU High Level Panel on Sudan with an earnest belief that the African led initiative will hold more traction.
He urged that the international community and regional stakeholders to stand behind the panel.
FM Taye Bids Farewell to the Outgoing Mexican Ambassador
Foreign Minister, H.E. Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie, bade farewell to the outgoing Mexican Ambassador to Ethiopia, H.E. Victor Trevino, at his office today.
Ambassador Victor Trevino, has sought to strengthen ties between Mexico and Ethiopia. The fact that Ethiopia and Mexico held two political consultation during his tenure is a testament to this.
He said that the commemoration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ethiopia and Mexico is approaching, and that the Mexican Foreign Minister would pay Addis Ababa a working visit.
The two sides expressed interest to continue strengthening their relations according to the various agreements they had previously signed.
During the discussion, It was mentioned that the two nations would collaborate in multilateral diplomatic forums within the framework of South-South cooperation.
Ethiopia, Swiss Ministers Lay Cornerstone for New Swiss Embassy
Foreign Minister, H.E. Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie and Swiss counterpart H.E. Ignazio Cassis have laid a cornerstone for the construction of the new Embassy of Switzerland in Addis Ababa, today.
During the the groundbreaking ceremony, Ambassador Taye said the decision to construct a new building signals Switzerland’s determination to further strengthen its longstanding relationship with Ethiopia.
The Minister also added that the construction of a new structure is a practical demonstration of Addis Ababa being a diplomatic hub.
The Foreign Minister of Switzerland, Ignacio Cassis, described it as a historic event aimed at strengthening the existing friendship of the two countries.
Ethiopia, Switzerland Agree to Strengthen Bilateral Relations
Ethiopia and Switzerland held bilateral meeting at Sheraton Addis in Addis Ababa, today. The two sides have discussed bilateral, regional, and multilateral issues of mutual interest.
During the press conference held after the meeting, Foreign Minister, Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie stated that Ethiopia attaches great importance to the long-standing and historical relationship with the Swiss Confederation.
FM Taye also added that they agreed to build upon the consultation between the two sides, to further scale up bilateral cooperation and committed to promoting peace and stability.
H.E. Mr. Ignazio Cassis, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland, on his part, said that the discussion was fruitful in many aspects and the relation between Ethiopia and Switzerland is informed by the outstanding and historical ties they enjoy.
Ambassador Birtukan Ayano Welcomes US Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Population, Refugees, Migration
The State Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Ambassador Birtukan Ayano, met with the US Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration, H.E. Ambassador Julieta Valls Noyes at her office, today.
During the meeting, Assistant Secretary Noyes highlighted Ethiopia’s commendable role in hosting immigrants from various countries, providing them with employment and ensuring their access to essential economic and social services.
H.E. Ambassador Birtukan shared insights into Ethiopia’s collaboration with the US on education, refugees, climate change, and international cooperation. she also emphasized Ethiopia’s dedication to refugee’s welfare, noting the support extended to over a million refugees through housing, food, and other necessities.
Assistant Secretary Noyes applauded Ethiopia for its implementation of the refugee law framework and its commitment to international migration issues. She stressed the importance of global cooperation to protect the human rights of refugees affected by man-made and natural disasters.
Assistant Secretary Noyes commended Ethiopia for its efforts in providing sustainable solutions to the global refugee crisis and confirmed the US government’s support for these initiatives.
