By Gelila Adamu
Addis Ababa (AMECO) – Ethiopia must leverage its historical standing and natural resources to lead continental efforts on peace, economic integration, and regional connectivity, said the veteran diplomat Ambassador Tefera Shiawl.
Speaking to AMECO Africa the veteran diplomat said, as Africa navigates mounting economic pressures, geopolitical competition, and regional conflicts, the diplomat called on Ethiopia to apply its historical diplomatic experience to practical areas of cooperation across the continent. He identified trade, aviation, telecommunications, economic integration, and the joint development of natural resources as primary sectors for strengthening bilateral and multilateral ties.
Pointing to Ethiopia’s substantial reserves of water, minerals, petroleum, and natural gas, the ambassador highlighted these assets as natural foundations for regional partnerships. However, he stressed that the nation’s human capital remains its most significant strength.
“The tenacity of our people, the efficient working culture of our people, and the love of our people for Ethiopia is the biggest instrument we have,” he said.
Addressing what Ethiopia must do to help achieve the African Union’s Agenda 2063 framework for a united and self-reliant continent, the diplomat argued that regional progress depends fundamentally on security.
“Peace for all, peace on the basis of a win-win situation,” he said, adding that economic development and cross-border cooperation should follow the same principle.
Rather than viewing Ethiopia’s historical role on the continent purely as a legacy to commemorate, the ambassador urged that its diplomatic heritage be actively used to navigate contemporary African challenges.
To remain a meaningful contributor to continental integration, he concluded, Ethiopia’s foreign policy must continue to prioritise peace, regional connectivity, and international understanding—positioning the country not only to defend its national interests, but as a reliable partner in Africa’s collective stability.
