OBN Cyber Media -July 28, 2026
Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Gedion Timothewos, stated that Africa must position itself as a strategic actor amid the rapidly evolving global geopolitical landscape.
Speaking at the opening of the 49th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union, which commenced today in Finfinne, the minister emphasized that the continent should seize the opportunities created by global transformations and play a more influential role in shaping international affairs.
In his address, Dr. Gedion noted that the meeting is taking place at a time when the international order and geopolitical dynamics are undergoing profound changes. He pointed out that intensifying geopolitical competition, rapid technological transformation, the growing impacts of climate change, and increasing competition over strategically important natural resources are collectively reshaping the global system.
He stressed that Africa should capitalize on these developments to become a strategic player capable of offering African solutions to global challenges. He further underlined that the African Union should emerge as a strong and credible voice that advances the continent’s priorities, safeguards its interests, and represents Africa effectively on the global stage.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Gedion also highlighted Africa’s growing economic potential, noting that eight of the world’s ten fastest-growing economies in 2026 are in Africa. He stated that the continent is expected to become a major engine of global economic growth during the second half of the 21st century. He reaffirmed Ethiopia’s unwavering commitment to strengthening African unity and supporting the African Union’s continental agenda.
The minister further emphasized the importance of securing a sustainable and reliable financing mechanism for the African Union to effectively implement its decisions. He called for Africa’s shared resources to be managed through cooperation, fairness, and mutual benefit to promote continental integration and prosperity. He also stressed that the continent’s challenges should be addressed through African institutions and frameworks, in line with the principle of “African solutions to African problems.”
