The 38th African Union (AU) Summit concluded this week in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, leaving behind a series of resolutions aimed at addressing pressing challenges and fostering meaningful progress across the continent. The summit, held under the auspices of the AU, highlighted Ethiopia’s role as a host nation, earning widespread praise for its organization, hospitality, and commitment to facilitating robust dialogue among member states.
From the initial preparations to the final closing remarks, Ethiopia showcased its dedication to ensuring the summit’s success. The country undertook significant logistical and security measures while also organizing cultural events that celebrated Ethiopia’s rich heritage and traditions. This effort not only enhanced the summit experience but also underscored Ethiopia’s position as a pivotal player in continental affairs.
Beyond the formal proceedings, the summit served as an essential platform for bilateral discussions, with Ethiopia actively engaging with various nations to strengthen diplomatic ties. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed took the opportunity to meet with countries leaders, emphasizing the importance of collaboration for regional stability and development.
Among the key meetings, Prime Minister Abiy conferred with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune of Algeria, where they reaffirmed their commitment to fostering strong diplomatic relations rooted in historical solidarity and mutual interests. In a social media statement, the Prime Minister noted, “Ethiopia and Algeria share strong diplomatic ties, rooted in historical solidarity, Pan-Africanism, and mutual interests in regional stability.”
In addition, Prime Minister Abiy held discussions with leaders from Zambia and Senegal. He expressed enthusiasm over his conversation with President Bassirou Diomaye Faye of Senegal, focusing on enhancing bilateral ties. “We recognize that despite the challenges we face, Africa holds immense opportunities provided we are guided by strong and visionary leadership,” the Prime Minister stated.
The discussions with President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia also revolved around cooperation in critical sectors such as energy and aviation, emphasizing the necessity of continental unity in an increasingly complex global landscape.
Further engagements included talks with President Paul Kagame of Rwanda and President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, where regional and continental issues were at the forefront of discussions.
The summit attracted various dignitaries, including His Majesty Mswati III, the Ngwenyama of Eswatini, who commended Ethiopia’s development achievements across multiple sectors. Reflecting on his experience in Ethiopia, Mswati III expressed admiration for the significant progress made in infrastructure and technology, stating, “I have seen a lot of great improvement in terms of infrastructure and technology.”
The King highlighted the warm welcome extended to African leaders during the summit and commended the successful organization of the event. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among African nations to ensure collective progress and unity, stating, “If we walk the walk together, the successes are great, but in isolation, the successes can be limited.”
Barbados Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley also participated in the summit, engaging with Prime Minister Abiy and visiting the Adwa Memorial Museum. She underscored the significance of the Battle of Adwa in world history, noting its representation of resilience against adversity. “The victory of Adwa exemplifies the strength of the Ethiopian people and symbolizes hope for marginalized communities worldwide,” she remarked.
Prime Minister Mottley further elaborated on the historical ties between Ethiopia and Barbados, expressing her belief that these bonds would only strengthen in the future. She highlighted the need for unity and collaboration to tackle pressing issues and achieve collective goals.
In addition, during the 46th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Executive Council, Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, engaged in a series of significant diplomatic discussions aimed at bolstering bilateral and regional cooperation.
In a notable meeting, Minister Gedion conferred with Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi. Their discussions centered on shared challenges and opportunities between the two nations, highlighting the importance of collaboration in addressing regional issues.
In similar vein, Gedion Timothewos met with Zimbabwean Foreign Minister Amon Murwira to address the pressing need to resume their joint ministerial commission. This initiative seeks to explore new avenues for cooperation and enhance the bilateral relationship between Ethiopia and Zimbabwe.
The Ethiopian Foreign Minister also held productive discussions with his counterparts from Algeria and South Sudan, Ahmed Attaf and Ambassador Ramadan Mohamed Abdallah Goc, respectively. These conversations focused on enhancing trade, investment, and infrastructural linkages, as well as coordinating efforts on various regional and continental matters. The ministers emphasized the necessity of working together to foster economic growth and stability within the region.
A highlight of the session was Ethiopia’s election to the African Union Peace and Security Council. This prestigious appointment acknowledges Ethiopia’s significant contributions to peace, security, and development across the African continent, reaffirming its commitment to regional stability.
Overall, the diplomatic engagements during the AU summit proved to be fruitful for Ethiopia, strengthening its ties with key African nations and reinforcing its role as a vital player in regional and continental affairs. As Ethiopia continues to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, these discussions pave the way for future collaborations aimed at fostering peace and prosperity in Africa.
The summit, which concluded by attendance of African leaders, UN Secretary-General António Guterres, and heads of various international institutions, addressed a range of critical continental agendas. Key topics included the African Union’s institutional reforms, reparative justice, and ongoing efforts for Africa to secure a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
Additionally, participants deliberated on matters related to peace and security, the implementation of the African Free Trade Area, and the broader goals of continental trade and economic integration. Other important issues discussed included agriculture and climate change, human rights, and the empowerment of women and youth.
In a notable development, Djibouti’s Foreign Minister Mahmoud Ali Youssouf was elected as the new Chairperson of the African Union Commission. The former Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat, was honored with a knighthood for his service.
As the 38th African Union Summit drew to a close, the resolutions and discussions that took place have set the groundwork for a more united and cooperative Africa. Leaders emphasized the importance of strong, visionary leadership in harnessing the continent’s immense opportunities to address its challenges.
The summit not only reinforced existing partnerships but also paved the way for new collaborations aimed at fostering development, peace, and prosperity across Africa. With Ethiopia’s successful hosting of the summit, the nation has once again demonstrated its commitment to being at the forefront of continental dialogue and progress.
BY EYUEL KIFLU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 19 FEBRUARY 2025
