Addis Ababa, July 15, 2026 (FMC) — African Union Political Affairs, Peace and Security Commissioner Bankole Adeoye has described Ethiopia’s National Dialogue as a landmark process demonstrating the country’s commitment to advancing lasting peace, sustainable development and positive transformation.
Addressing the opening session of the National Dialogue Conference in Addis Ababa, Commissioner Adeoye congratulated Ethiopia on launching the historic process, commending its scale, inclusiveness and broad participation. He said the African Union was pleased to be part of the historic moment and reaffirmed its support for the successful completion of the dialogue.
The Commissioner said the National Dialogue represents a significant opportunity for Ethiopia to strengthen peace and prosperity, describing it as a testimony to the country’s determination to build lasting stability while embracing its diversity.
He highlighted the importance of inclusive national conversations and indigenous solutions in addressing challenges and advancing sustainable growth, lasting peace and stability.
Commissioner Adeoye further stressed that Ethiopia’s peace, stability and unity are critical not only for the Ethiopian people but also for the wider region and the African continent, noting the country’s role as the diplomatic capital of Africa and the seat of the African Union Commission.
He reaffirmed the African Union’s commitment to continuing collaboration with Ethiopia in efforts aimed at strengthening peace, stability and sustainable development.
The National Dialogue Conference has brought together around 4,000 representatives from across Ethiopia and the diaspora for three weeks of structured deliberations on key issues identified through nationwide consultations.
The discussions are guided by eight major agenda pillars developed from priorities and concerns raised by citizens during extensive grassroots consultations, covering issues including state-building, identity and history, governance, institutional development, socio-economic affairs, anti-corruption efforts and peacebuilding.
Established in 2021 as an independent institution, the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission was mandated to facilitate an inclusive national dialogue aimed at building consensus on issues that have historically divided Ethiopians and contributing to lasting peace, stability and national unity.