Ethiopia emphasizes the importance of multilateralism to address pressing global challenges

Addis Ababa, February 12, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos (PhD), emphasized the importance of multilateralism during his remarks at the 46th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union. He highlighted the turbulent changes currently challenging global cooperation, asserting that for Africa and the Global South, multilateralism is both a choice based on collaboration and a necessity to address widespread challenges.

The Foreign Minister called attention to issues such as climate change, environmental degradation, pandemics, and health crises, stating that these global problems require collective solutions through strengthened frameworks like the United Nations and the African Union. He expressed concern over the rising number of internal and interstate conflicts and the polarization and geopolitical rivalry affecting the world order, which risk throwing the continent into uncertainty.

The Minister advocated for reform in global governance structures, including the United Nations Security Council, and called for an international financial system that supports Africa’s growth. He demanded greater access to climate financing and technology to address both manmade and natural disasters, urging the continent to harness its collective strength to achieve its aspirations.

Gedion referenced Africa’s Agenda 2063, describing it as promising but requiring strong political will, effective coordination, and robust partnerships among member states for successful implementation. He noted Ethiopia’s commitment to trading under the African Continental Free Trade Area to enhance inter-African trade and continental integration.

He argued that the African Union’s inclusion in the G20 would provide a crucial platform for shaping global economic governance and ensuring that Africa’s priorities are addressed in decision-making processes. Congratulating South Africa on its G20 chairmanship, he expressed confidence that African interests would be prioritized.

Gedion also called for strengthening continental institutional capacities for mediation and conflict prevention, commending the role of the African Union’s peacekeeping missions and international partners like the United States in maintaining peace on the continent. He concluded by reiterating the need for renewed commitment to African solidarity, emphasizing that the continent’s future relies on collective will and action to unlock its potential for all its peoples.