Tangible diplomatic successes registered under challenging circumstances: MoFA

Addis Ababa, January 16, 2025 (FMC) – The Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA), Ambassador Nebiat Getachew, in his press briefing today, highlighted the major activities carried out in foreign relations over the past six months and current diplomatic activities.

Ambassador Nebiat pointed out that tangible results in advancing Ethiopia’s national interests over the past six months have been achieved.

He stated that measures have been taken to strengthen Ethiopia’s comprehensive ties with neighbouring countries, and that it has been possible to ensure recognition of its pivotal role in maintaining peace in the region.

During this period, the Spokesperson cited, more than 128 high-level officials’ visits have been made, which enabled the strengthening of bilateral relations with countries. He said that these have made it possible to strengthen partnership and to consolidate Ethiopia’s long-term interests and current positions.

Ambassador Nebiat, on the other hand, mentioned that Ethiopia’s election as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council is one of the successes of the past six months, adding that this will enhance the country’s role in multilateral diplomacy.

Another issue that Ambassador Nebiat touched upon in his briefing was citizen-centred diplomacy. In this regard, he noted the fact that thirty-three thousand (33,000) nationals facing dire circumstances in various countries have been repatriated against an initial plan of twenty-eight thousand (28,000).

A lot has been done to strengthen people-to-people relations with various countries, and Ethiopia has provided scholarship opportunities for 968 students from neighboring countries, he told reporters.