Addis Ababa, October 25/2025 (ABN)
Eight decades after the birth of the United Nations, the world once again looked to Africa’s diplomatic heart as Ethiopia and the UN celebrated 80 years of partnership and shared purpose at Africa Hall a place where history, hope, and humanity converge.
The commemoration, marked by the symbolic raising of the UN flag, reminded all present of a vision born not of comfort but of courage a vision to unite humanity in peace and progress. As the anthem resonated through Africa Hall, pride and humility intertwined pride in what has been achieved, and humility in the journey still ahead.
The event brought together senior leaders from the United Nations, the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), the African Union (AU), and the Government of Ethiopia a living image of solidarity in an era of global uncertainty.
Mr. Molla Sharew, President of the Former International Civil Servants Association, reflected on Ethiopia’s deep and historic bond with the UN as a host of one of its oldest institutions in Africa and as a nation that has contributed immensely through peacekeeping, diplomacy, and development. Ethiopia, he emphasized, holds the highest number of retired UN staff in Africa a testament to its long-standing service and dedication to the organization’s ideals.
Ambassador Mohamoud Ali Yousouf, Chairperson of the African Union Commission and one of Africa’s longest-serving diplomats, delivered a message of reflection and renewal. He noted that while the world faces growing polarization, the shared visions of Agenda 2063 and SDG 2030 serve as a reminder that cooperation, not competition, remains the key to humanity’s future.
Representing the Ethiopian government, Ambassador Birhanu Tesgaye, State Minister of Foreign Affairs, reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to global partnership. “No nation is immune from the world’s crises, but no nation should face them alone,” he declared, calling for a more inclusive and decentralized global order one that empowers every nation and community to have a voice in shaping collective progress.
Mr. Claver Gatete, UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of UNECA, paid tribute to Ethiopia’s unwavering hospitality, peacekeeping excellence, and leadership in sustainable development. Standing in Africa Hall the birthplace of the African Union he highlighted Ethiopia’s symbolic role as a pillar of global unity and a guiding force for the UN’s vision in Africa.
The event concluded with a symbolic performance by students from Andinet International School, representing the next generation of global citizens. Panel discussions explored the UN’s evolving mission and Ethiopia’s pivotal role in driving the next phase of global cooperation.
Ethiopia and the UN The Past, The Present, and The Way Forward
From healing a war-torn world to facing new frontiers of climate, conflict, and inequality, the UN’s journey mirrors humanity’s own. And in every era, Ethiopia has stood as both host and heart a nation where dialogue finds dignity and peace finds a pulse.
As the world steps into a new decade of challenges and change, Ethiopia and the United Nations continue to stand together not as symbols of the past, but as architects of the future.
Because the UN’s true strength does not rest in its flag or its halls, but in the spirit of cooperation it embodies a spirit Ethiopia has carried with grace for 80 years.
In a world divided by walls, Ethiopia and the United Nations still stand for bridges for humanity, for hope, and for a shared destiny.
