ADDIS ABABA - Ethiopia's recent hosting of the African Union (AU) Summit has been hailed as a testament to its dedication to advancing continental aspirations, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported. During a media briefing, State Ministers Ambassador Mesganu Arga and Ambassador Birtukan Ayano praised the summit's successful execution and Ethiopia's efforts in addressing critical issues facing Africa.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the summit focused on pivotal topics such as education, and peace and security across the continent, reflecting Ethiopia's national interests. He elaborated on Ethiopia's presentation regarding the implementation of the Pretoria Agreement, underscoring the importance of a committed adherence to its complete realization.
The summit also marked a significant milestone for Ethiopia's economic integration within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), with the approval of the country's proposed goods tariff. This approval enables Ethiopia to join the nine African nations already trading under the AfCFTA framework. "Our goods tariff offer was endorsed by the ministers of trade of African governments to trade under AfCFTA; and this is a great success," stated Ambassador Arga.
Furthermore, Ethiopia's achievements in agriculture, particularly its wheat production and the Yelemat Terufat program, were showcased, highlighting the country's contributions to agricultural advancements on the continent.
Addressing the Ethio-Somaliland Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Ambassador Arga reaffirmed Ethiopia's commitment to regional cooperation and integration, emphasizing that the MoU is consistent with Ethiopia's foreign policy objectives and its principle of fostering development within a rule-based and mutually beneficial framework.
Ambassador Birtukan Ayano, on her part, focused on the logistical and protocol aspects of the summit, declaring it a resounding success. She noted the peaceful conclusion, meticulous protocol adherence, and seamless accommodation for over 8,000 delegates from 49 African countries as evidence of the government's effective planning and execution. The summit's organization facilitated the participation of 31 heads of state and six vice presidents, with 54 chartered airplanes efficiently managed at Bole International Airport.
Additionally, Ambassador Birtukan highlighted the cultural enrichment provided to guests and diplomats, including visits to the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum, further enhancing the summit's success. "Following the preparation made for over three months, the summit concluded successfully...Our country is respected and elevated by hosting this very successful summit," she remarked.
Looking ahead, the state minister expressed Ethiopia's commitment to continuous improvement and the introduction of innovative elements to further bolster its hosting capabilities for future events.