ADDIS ABABA - Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has unveiled Ethiopia's renewed diplomatic vision, aiming to elevate the country's role in international affairs through a more assertive and independent foreign policy approach.
In an interview with the Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC), the premier explained that Ethiopia is moving away from the traditional "3 P's" diplomatic model--Political, Process, and Protocol--and adopting a new framework based on four pillars: active engagement, diversified partnerships, ideological independence, and agenda-setting leadership.
Abiy emphasized that Ethiopia must engage the world with awareness and neutrality, maintaining balanced relationships with diverse global actors, including both Israel and Arab nations. He said Ethiopia must support peaceful dialogue while remaining neutral where necessary, reflecting its commitment to non-aligned, interest-based diplomacy.
He described the country's strategy to seek alternative partnerships across continents as essential to ensuring global relevance. He also underlined the importance of ideological independence, which enables Ethiopia to remain flexible and neutral in a polarized international environment.
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The fourth pillar, according to the Prime Minister, is Ethiopia's ambition to lead rather than follow. He said Ethiopia, as one of only 11 countries with both a large population and a rich historical legacy, has a responsibility to be proactive on the global stage.
Citing Ethiopia's recent accession to the BRICS bloc, Abiy said the country initially faced exclusion but successfully demonstrated its strategic significance and earned membership through persistence and diplomacy. He stated that this reflects Ethiopia's ability to set its own agenda in global forums.
Abiy also highlighted the importance of building long-term, trust-based alliances and noted Ethiopia's growing partnerships in various regions. He stressed that diplomacy must be supported by strong economic performance, including debt management, poverty reduction, and institutional development.
The Prime Minister noted ongoing reforms at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, aimed at improving diplomatic effectiveness by integrating younger professionals while retaining the experience of veteran diplomats. He expressed confidence that Ethiopian diplomacy will grow stronger in the years ahead.
BY STAFF REPORTER
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THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 8 JUNE 2025
