15 February 2016
Ethiopia played a crucial role in the creation of institutions promoting African unity and solidarity, highlighted Ambassador Fisha Shawol, Director of African Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Speaking during his visit with ESA, Ambassador Shawol emphasized Ethiopia’s long history of diplomatic contribution to Africa and the world. He pointed to the country’s strong diplomatic ties in Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, spanning across economic, political, and people-to-people relations.
He credited Emperor Menelik II with establishing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, laying the groundwork for 116 years of active multilateral diplomacy on the international and continental stages. Recognizing the need for unity and solidarity, Ethiopia took a leading role in founding the Organization of African Unity (OAU), Ambassador Shawol said.
Furthermore, Ethiopia championed the liberation of colonized Africans and actively supported the Pan-Africanism movement. He also noted the country’s presence during the United Nations’ establishment and its significant contribution to drafting the UN Charter.
Ambassador Shawol explained that Ethiopia’s foreign policy prioritizes mutual benefit, starting with neighboring countries, then expanding to the continent and the world. Guided by this principle, Ethiopia actively pursues initiatives to strengthen African unity through trade,
infrastructure development, and people-to-people connections.
Looking forward, Ambassador Shawol reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to further strengthening its role in promoting peace, economic growth, and prosperity for the continent, all based on the principles of mutual benefit and shared goals.
The African Union also expressed its commitment to addressing common issues based on established principles, furthering its mission of continental unity and progress
