Addis Ababa, September 7, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stressed that the philosophy of *Medemer*, meaning “synergy,” has been central to Ethiopia’s development journey and offers a guiding principle for stronger ties between Africa and the Caribbean.
Addressing the Second Africa-CARICOM Summit in Addis Ababa, the Prime Minister said Ethiopia’s experience demonstrates how unity of purpose and collective effort can transform vision into lasting results. He described synergy as a deliberate partnership that multiplies strengths across regions, driving progress through connection, culture, innovation, and knowledge.
Abiy drew on Ethiopia’s history, recalling that Addis Ababa was the place where African unity first took root and where the call for Adwa was answered. “From here the world is reminded of the truth too often forgotten — the spirit of our nation always rises,” he said. He stressed that Ethiopia’s victory at Adwa was achieved not by force but by courage and by unity, becoming a symbol of resistance and pride shared across continents and generations.
“Today, we are here to build upon that legacy,” the Prime Minister declared, urging African and Caribbean leaders to “speak as one” in addressing global challenges. He highlighted the complementary strengths of both regions, noting that Africa brings scale, natural wealth, and boundless potential, while the Caribbean contributes strategic diplomacy and resilient communities. “Together, these strengths are multiplied for greater impact,” he said.
The Prime Minister reiterated that Ethiopia’s own progress has been guided by *Medemer*. He pointed to flagship national initiatives, including the Green Legacy program, which has mobilized citizens to plant over 48 billion seedlings, and the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), as concrete examples of collective achievement.
“When Ethiopia speaks with one voice on climate, on debt, or on trade, we deliver,” Abiy stated. “The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam is proof of our strengths when we unite. Born in the heart of millions, funded by our own people, built through their labor and sacrifice — it is a testament to shared vision, bold determination, and collective effort, a historic achievement for Ethiopia and for Africa.”
By linking Ethiopia’s philosophy of synergy to both historical legacy and present achievements, Abiy called for a stronger Africa–Caribbean partnership that builds on shared values, multiplies regional strengths, and lays the foundation for collective prosperity.