The Ethiopian government has reported significant diplomatic achievements during the 2017 fiscal year, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. In a media briefing, Ambassador Nebiat Getachew, the spokesperson for the ministry, outlined the key diplomatic successes recorded during the year. The ambassador highlighted Ethiopia’s growing influence in both regional and global affairs, citing the country’s proactive diplomatic initiatives as a key factor in achieving these successes.

• Strengthening multilateral engagement
• Peace diplomacy
• Economic partnerships
• Citizen-centered diplomacy

These initiatives reflect Ethiopia’s commitment to promoting its international image and safeguarding national interests across multiple sectors. The country undertook diplomatic efforts aimed at promoting regional integration through energy and infrastructure connectivity, with a focus on strengthening mutually beneficial relations with neighboring countries.

A major focus of Ethiopia’s diplomatic efforts was advancing peace and stability across the Horn of Africa. The country played a constructive role in promoting peace and stability in the region, with several bilateral and multilateral agreements signed during the year. These agreements contributed to enhancing Ethiopia’s international visibility and protecting its national interests.

• Bilateral agreements
• Multilateral agreements

In terms of people-to-people engagement, Ethiopia provided 968 free higher education opportunities to students from neighboring countries, demonstrating its commitment to regional development and solidarity. The country also promoted its investment opportunities in 160 international forums, with the goal of attracting foreign capital.

• Investment promotion
• Trade promotion events

Ethiopia participated in 118 trade promotion events, which led to the creation of 151 new market linkages for Ethiopian export products. The country’s strong focus on citizen-centered diplomacy was also evident in its efforts to repatriate Ethiopian nationals from 21 countries who faced difficult circumstances abroad.

• Repatriation of Ethiopian nationals
• Preparations for international events

Over 131,000 Ethiopian nationals were repatriated from 21 countries, showcasing the government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens. The government’s preparations for two major international events, the UN Food Systems Summit and the 2nd Africa Climate Summit, are ongoing.

“We are pleased to announce that Ethiopia will host the 2nd UN Food Systems Summit and the 2nd Africa Climate Summit, which will take place in Addis Ababa in 2025. These events will further elevate our role in global discussions and showcase our efforts in climate action, sustainable development, and international cooperation.”

— Ambassador Nebiat Getachew, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs

The UN Food Systems Summit will take place from July 27-29, 2025, co-hosted by Ethiopia and Italy. The 2nd Africa Climate Summit will take place from September 8-10, 2025, with pre-summit events from September 5-7, co-hosted by Ethiopia and the African Union. These events are expected to demonstrate Ethiopia’s commitment to global challenges, particularly climate change, and its aspiration to contribute meaningfully to international solutions.