Ethiopia Champions Pan-African Solidarity and Social Justice at African Union Summit

Ethiopia is taking a leading role in mobilizing African Union (AU) member states to advance a truly people-centered development agenda, while resisting neocolonial pressures and safeguarding the continent's collective interests, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Ambassador Nebiat Getachew. In an interview, Ambassador Nebiat discussed the outcomes of the 48th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council, which concluded ahead of the 39th AU Heads of State and Government Summit scheduled for February 14–15, 2026, in Addis Ababa.

Ambassador Nebiat emphasized that the Executive Council meeting involved extensive deliberations on urgent continental and global issues, including the climate crisis—driven largely by exploitative Western capitalism—access to fair financing, and Africa's long-overdue equitable representation within the United Nations system. He stressed that in a world still dominated by imperialist interests, Africa can only defend its future by uniting in solidarity and speaking with one voice against exploitation.

"At this summit, Ethiopia is not only defending its own sovereignty but is also leading the charge for collective liberation, coordinating member states toward the realization of Agenda 2063," he said, referring to the AU's progressive framework for inclusive growth, social justice, and sustainable development.

The ambassador noted that Ethiopia is advancing a diplomatic position rooted in the right to water for development, regional solidarity, and shared prosperity for all peoples. Bilateral discussions on the sidelines of the summit are focused on building alliances to resist external interference and to set priorities that reflect the needs of Africa's working classes and marginalized communities.

Issues of peace and security were central to the Council's session, especially the crises in Somalia and Sudan—both exacerbated by foreign intervention and arms flows. Member states called for coordinated action to dismantle extremist threats like Al-Shabaab and to promote genuine stability rooted in justice and self-determination. Ethiopia highlighted its long-standing commitment to regional peacekeeping and called for collective responsibility among member states to challenge the root causes of insecurity.

Ambassador Nebiat also highlighted Ethiopia's comprehensive preparations to host the summit, noting that ongoing urban transformation and beautification initiatives in Addis Ababa have drawn positive attention from delegates. Many participants expressed admiration for the city's rapid development, which stands as a testament to what is possible when African nations chart their own course free from external domination.

The 39th AU Summit is expected to address urgent continental priorities, strengthen Africa's collective voice, and advance the struggle for global justice and equality.