Addis Ababa – Ethiopia is committed to enhancing regional integration based on mutual benefits, as stated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The Ministry’s Director of Neighboring Countries Affairs, Zerihun Abebe, in an interview with the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), explained that Ethiopia’s foreign policy prioritizes establishing peace with neighboring countries and strengthening regional ties.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, Ethiopia’s role in regional peace, stability, and integration is noteworthy. He highlighted Ethiopia’s contributions to the formation of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), focusing on development initiatives. Further, Zerihun detailed Ethiopia’s efforts in building infrastructure such as roads and power links to enhance integration with neighboring countries. He also noted that Ethiopia engages in cross-border trade with almost all its neighbors.

Significantly, Zerihun underscored Ethiopia’s role in promoting peace in Somalia and South Sudan, adhering to the principle of African solutions to African problems. In Somalia, Ethiopia’s involvement in peace processes has been substantial, contributing to the nation’s stability. Emphasizing the importance of regional integration for mutual benefit, Zerihun argued that Africa’s resources can only be fully developed through a collaborative and reciprocal approach.

With a focus on regional connectivity in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia’s strategy includes the peaceful resolution of conflicts, expansion of infrastructure, and strengthening of business ties. Recognizing the Horn of Africa’s shared natural resources, culture, and language, the director stressed the necessity of transforming these commonalities into robust ties to enhance the region’s influence.

Davos, Switzerland – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister of Ethiopia, Demeke Mekonnen, held a meeting with Bill Gates, founder and co-chairperson of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, at the 54th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, Demeke expressed his appreciation for the foundation’s significant role in Ethiopia’s health and agricultural sectors. He acknowledged the foundation’s efforts in improving the lives and livelihoods of rural communities in Ethiopia and requested an expansion of its engagement in the country.

Bill Gates, in response, affirmed the foundation’s commitment to continue supporting key priority areas of Ethiopia’s development programs. The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation has been a crucial development partner in Ethiopia, contributing to various initiatives aimed at enhancing the well-being of its population.

Davos – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Demeke Mekonnen, is actively participating in the 54th annual meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland. The forum, convening under the theme ‘Rebuilding Trust’, is focusing on critical global issues including development, security, innovation, and climate change.

During the WEF 2024 meeting, Demeke engaged in significant bilateral discussions.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, he met with the Vice President of Tanzania, Philip Isdor Mpango, and Daren Tang, the Director-General of the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). In his conversation with Mpango, Demeke briefed him on the ongoing construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam. Mpango reaffirmed Tanzania’s commitment to ensuring fair and equitable use of Nile water resources, with both sides agreeing to arrange a joint ministerial meeting soon.

In discussions with WIPO’s Director-General, Demeke highlighted Ethiopia’s readiness to enhance its cooperation with the organization. Tang, in response, assured that WIPO would bolster its support for Ethiopia. He also accepted Demeke’s invitation to visit Ethiopia, marking a step towards strengthened ties between Ethiopia and the World Intellectual Property Organization.