AMN Plus-February 17/2026
State Minister for Foreign Affairs and Head of the National Organizing Committee, Ambassador Berhanu Tsegaye, made a statement to the press regarding the conclusion of the 39th African Union Summit and the Second Italy–Africa Summit.
Ambassador Berhanu stated that the 39th African Union Summit and the Second Italy–Africa Summit were successfully concluded.
The State Minister explained that 41 heads of state, 48 foreign ministers, 12 first ladies, and heads of delegations in various capacities participated in the summits.
More than 20,000 participants from abroad and within the country took part in the summits, and Ambassador Berhanu noted that Ethiopia successfully hosted the event and welcomed its guests.
He stated that heads of state and government and their delegations were accorded a standard welcome and farewell from their arrival at Bole International Airport through their participation in the summits and upon their departure.
The summit demonstrated that Ethiopia has effectively leveraged multilateral and bilateral platforms at various levels to advance its interests.
Ambassador Berhanu stated that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held key bilateral discussions with leaders of various countries that safeguard Ethiopia’s national interest.
The State Minister further highlighted that Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos similarly held discussions with his counterparts to strengthen cooperation.
Ambassador Berhanu also noted that Ethiopia has built comprehensive capacity to host major conferences and that more than 1,225 media professionals participated and promoted its positive image effectively.
He thanked those who contributed to the successful completion of the summits as to Ministry of foreign affairs of Ethiopia reported it.
