Ethiopia is expected to be confirmed as host of the 2027 UN Climate Conference (COP32), with Addis Ababa backed by the African Group of Negotiators. The anticipated decision would return the summit to Africa for the first time since 2022. Observers said hosting COP32 gives Ethiopia a key diplomatic role in shaping regional priorities. The UNFCCC will conduct required assessments before final approval. Addis Ababa already hosts major international institutions, including the African Union.

Ethiopian ambassadors said the government is intensifying diplomatic efforts to build international awareness of its push for secure and sustainable sea access. They described the issue as a renewed national priority shaped by changing regional dynamics. Envoys emphasized that Ethiopia’s request aligns with diplomatic principles supporting negotiated access to global trade routes. They also urged the diaspora to strengthen advocacy, noting its past influence in international discussions, including debates over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.

Ethiopia and Italy reaffirmed plans to deepen their long-standing bilateral partnership during talks in Addis Ababa ahead of the 2026–2028 cooperation agreement. State Minister of Finance Semereta Sewasew and Italy’s new ambassador Sem Fabrizi discussed priority areas, including structural reforms, security cooperation, trade, investment, and economic modernization. Both sides emphasized opportunities created by Ethiopia’s market opening and highlighted sectors such as agriculture, SMEs, energy, infrastructure, and tourism as key pillars for the next cooperation framework.

Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos urged the international community to push Eritrea to abandon what he called misguided policies and engage in constructive regional integration. Speaking at a Horn of Africa policy forum, he said outdated ideas of sovereignty and persistent provocations undermine stability. Gedion cited long-standing grievances, including economic interference and Eritrea’s alignment with hostile forces. He reaffirmed Ethiopia’s readiness for dialogue and called for international support to encourage Eritrea toward good-faith engagement.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed urged Parliament to adopt a unified national strategy on Artificial Intelligence, saying coordinated policymaking is necessary for Ethiopia to remain competitive. He told lawmakers that rapid global shifts in AI, bioengineering, space technology, and robotics demand long-term planning and stronger human resource development. Abiy said the government must prioritize youth training and national unity to manage these technological changes and safeguard Ethiopia’s strategic interests.

Australia’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Peter Hunter, reaffirmed his country’s support for Ethiopia’s contributions to regional peace, security, and development in the Horn of Africa. He praised Ethiopia’s economic reforms, rising investor confidence, and infrastructure progress, and highlighted growing cooperation in mining, tourism, and agriculture. Hunter also emphasized the importance of people-to-people ties and stronger African representation in global forums. He said Australia remains committed to supporting Ethiopia through multilateral engagement and expanded bilateral collaboration.