Addis Ababa: The successful hosting of the recently concluded African Union (AU) Summit underscores Ethiopia’s unwavering commitment to upholding continental aspirations, according to Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Briefing the media today, state ministers Ambassador Mesganu Arga and Ambassador Birtukan Ayano lauded the successful conduct of the summit and Ethiopia’s contribution to addressing pressing issues across Africa.

Foreign State Minister Ambassador Mesganu Arga noted that among the key topics deliberated upon were education, peace and security in the continent.

He stressed the crucial link between Ethiopia’s national interests and the summit’s agenda, stating that discussions held in the sessions along with the resulting resolutions addressed critical issues facing the continent were aligned with Ethiopia’s priorities.

According to him, Ethiopia presented and elucidated on the progress made in implementing the Pretoria Agreement, emphasizing the necessity for steadfast commitment to its full realiz
ation.

The summit also witnessed a significant step forward for Ethiopia’s economic integration within the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) by approving the country’s proposed goods tariff and paving the way for Ethiopia to join the nine African nations trading under the AfCFTA framework.

“During the summit, our goods tariff offer was endorsed by the ministers of trade of African governments to trade under AfCFTA; and this is a great success.”

Moreover, the state minster highlighted Ethiopia’s achievements in the agricultural sector, especially its exemplary wheat production, and Yelemat Terufat program showcased during the summit.

Addressing queries regarding the Ethio-Somaliland Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), Mesganu reiterated Ethiopia’s clear foreign policy objectives with its neighbors and its unwavering commitment to regional cooperation and integration.

The state minister added that the MoU aligns with the nation’s longstanding principle of fostering regional cooperation for develo
pment within a rule-based and mutually beneficial framework.

State Minister Ambassador Birtukan Ayano focused on her part on the logistical and protocol aspects of the summit and declared the whole process of the AU summit was a resounding success on all fronts.

The peaceful conclusion, meticulous protocol adherence, and seamless provision of accommodation and other services for more than 8,000 delegates from 49 African countries, was lauded as hallmarks of the government’s remarkable planning and execution, she pointed out.

The summit saw the participation of 31 heads of state and six vice presidents, it was learned.

The arrival of 54 chartered airplanes carrying participants to Bole International Airport was handled with remarkable efficiency, according to the state minister.

Ambassador Birtukan also highlighted the introduction of sightseeing opportunities for guests and diplomats, including visit and dinner program to the newly unveiled Adwa Victory Memorial Museum.

She reiterated the immense succes
s of the summit on all parameters, emphasizing its contributions to both Ethiopia and the continent.

“Following the preparation made for over three months, the summit concluded successfully and all actors have greatly contributed to the success of the whole process during the summit…Our country is respected and elevated by hosting this very successful summit.”

Looking forward, the state minister vowed for continuous improvement and the introduction of innovative elements to further enhance Ethiopia’s hosting capabilities in the future.

Source: Ethiopian News Agency

WINDHOEK: Minister of Information and Communication Technology, Emma Theofelus, on Tuesday announced that the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) will lead a military procession with the remains of the late President Hage Geingob across the capital city on Friday, allowing the public to pay their last respects.

She was speaking at the Government Information Center during the daily media briefing on the funeral arrangements of the late Geingob, who died on 04 February 2024. The exact routes will be announced on Wednesday afternoon, she said, adding that 27 countries will be attending Geingob’s funeral on Sunday, 18 of whom will be led by their Heads of State.

‘The rest of the delegations are led by either prime ministers, speakers or ambassadors. During this time, the Government urges road users to adhere to traffic rules and regulations regarding motorcades,’ Theofelus said.

A musical tribute will be held on Wednesday from 16h00 until late in memory of Geingob. The public can obtain free tickets at Webtickets to
attend this event at any Pick ‘n Pay store, Theofelus added.

‘Many will recall that Dr Hage Geingob avidly supported local music. He attended music awards and was known for his great moves during public interactions. This concert will allow Namibian musicians to celebrate the life of the ‘People’s President’ as many have fondly remembered him over the past few weeks. There are no planned activities for Thursday,’ the minister said.

Theofelus further dispelled rumors that 650 Southern African Development Community (SADC) policers are in the country, stating the information is false.

‘The official memorial service of the late President will take place on Saturday, 24 February 2024, at the Independence Stadium in Windhoek, where the Chief Mourner, H.E. Dr Nangolo Mbumba, President of the Republic of Namibia and other international guests will pay tribute to the late president for his contribution during the liberation struggle and in an independent Namibia.

The gates at the Independence Stadium will open at
10:00. The public is invited to attend. Transport arrangements will be communicated to the public in due course. Vendors can sell their goods at designated points during the official memorial service proceedings. However, the sale of alcohol around the Independence Stadium’s vicinity is prohibited. Law enforcement agencies will monitor these activities,’ Theofelus noted.

Source: The Namibia Press Agency