Addis Ababa, July 6, 2026 (FMC) — The European Union has described Ethiopia’s National Dialogue as a historic opportunity for peaceful consensus building and long-term national cohesion, urging inclusive participation and sufficient time for meaningful deliberations on key national issues.
The remarks came in a recent exclusive interview with FMC, in which Ambassador Sofie From-Emmesberger, Head of the European Union Delegation to Ethiopia, outlined the EU’s views on Ethiopia’s ongoing National Dialogue process, climate cooperation, and broader development partnership.
Members of the diplomatic community, including representatives of the European Union, recently participated in Ethiopia’s Green Legacy tree-planting initiative at Entoto Park in Addis Ababa, underscoring continued international support for the country’s environmental restoration and climate action efforts.
On the occasion, she said the National Dialogue process represents a significant moment in Ethiopia’s efforts to address major national questions through peaceful engagement.
The process, she noted, provides a vital platform for Ethiopians from diverse backgrounds to exchange views, listen to one another, and work toward recommendations that could help shape the country’s future for decades to come.
The ambassador noted that about 4,000 participants drawn from different regions and walks of life are expected to convene beginning July 15, describing the gathering as an important opportunity that should not be missed.
She stressed the importance of open and sustained discussion on key national issues, stating that if more time is needed beyond the initially planned three-week period, it should be considered in order to ensure that complex matters are adequately addressed.
Amb. Sofie From-Emmesberger emphasized that achieving peaceful solutions through dialogue is more important than adhering strictly to predetermined timelines, particularly when dealing with issues that may define the country’s trajectory for decades.
She expressed strong support for the process and extended best wishes to participants and facilitators, commending the National Dialogue Commission for its leadership in guiding what she described as a crucial national undertaking.
Beyond the National Dialogue, the ambassador also highlighted the European Union’s broader partnership with Ethiopia in areas of climate action, renewable energy, and sustainable development.
Amb. Sofie said trees, forests, and green spaces play a critical role in mitigating the effects of climate change, noting that the Green Legacy Initiative reflects Ethiopia’s commitment to environmental protection.
She added that the EU’s engagement in Ethiopia’s green agenda extends beyond symbolic participation, pointing to cooperation in renewable energy, including solar and wind investments involving EU member states such as Denmark, as well as future support through France, the European Union, and the European Investment Bank.
The ambassador further underscored the importance of green energy in reducing emissions from fossil fuels, and highlighted Ethiopia’s growing investments in electric mobility, hydropower, and other renewable energy sources.
She also pointed to sustainable agriculture, including the use of solar-powered irrigation systems, as another key area of cooperation between Ethiopia and the EU.
Looking ahead to Ethiopia’s hosting of COP32 next year following COP31 in Türkiye, she said discussions are already underway between the Ethiopian government and the European Union on key priorities and expected outcomes for the summit.
Ambassador Sofie expressed confidence that COP32 would deliver meaningful results in advancing global climate action and strengthening international cooperation on environmental issues.