Addis Ababa, 13 March 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopian President Taye Atske-Selassie today emphasized the need for Africa to push for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). During the African Union Commission’s leadership handover ceremony in Addis Ababa, President Taye called for Africa’s inclusion in global decision-making processes, stressing that the continent’s future is tied to decisions made by the UNSC.
The ceremony, marking the leadership transition within the AU Commission, also welcomed newly elected officials, following the election of the new leadership during the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government in February 2025. The handover was attended by key leaders, including African Union Chairperson President João Lourenço of Angola, newly elected AU Commission Chairperson Mohamed Ali Yusuf, and representatives from member states, development partners, and the diplomatic community.
In his speech, President Taye noted that Africa must no longer be sidelined in global decision-making, particularly in matters of peace, security, and development.
“We must also push for Africa’s permanent membership in the UN Security Council so that we will be part of the decision that will affect and determine the destiny of our continent,” President Taye said, calling for greater global equity and representation.
He reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to supporting the AU Commission’s new leadership and emphasized the significance of securing a permanent UNSC seat for Africa. The president stated that Africa’s full participation in such forums is crucial to its future, especially as the continent faces major challenges like regional conflicts, terrorism, and the climate crisis.
While addressing the challenges ahead, President Taye also celebrated the accomplishments of the outgoing AU Commission leadership under Chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat. He commended the leadership for securing Africa’s seat at the G20 and for the successful realization of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which President Taye described as “a reality” under the outgoing leadership.
He also praised the outgoing Deputy Chairperson Monique Nsanzabaganwa for her leadership in advancing gender equality and empowering women across Africa.
Looking forward, President Taye called on the incoming leadership to focus on critical issues such as regional peace, food sovereignty, energy security, and economic independence. “Securing an energy-sufficient Africa by encouraging member states to implement strong policy frameworks will be an important duty,” he said.
Reaffirming Ethiopia’s role as the seat of the African Union, President Taye Atske-Selassie pledged full support to the incoming leadership. He stated, “Ethiopia, as a seat of the African Union, bears responsibility in supporting the commission. We would like to reaffirm Ethiopia’s unwavering support and full cooperation as the new leadership is set on to undertake the mandates interested on them.”