Addis Ababa, July 15, 2026 (FMC) — Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said Ethiopia’s National Dialogue Conference represents a rare historic opportunity to build a lasting legacy for generations, urging participants to use the platform responsibly to transform challenges into solutions and lay a stronger foundation for the country’s future.
Addressing the opening of the National Dialogue Conference in Addis Ababa, the Prime Minister said the forum has a profound purpose and role in Ethiopia’s modern history, noting that its process, scope and anticipated outcomes make it an opportunity that cannot easily be replicated.
He described the conference as a comprehensive national platform bringing together representatives from across Ethiopia, saying the gathering provides a historic opportunity to shape a future that benefits current and coming generations.
Prime Minister Abiy urged participants to approach the dialogue with respect, humility and a strong sense of responsibility, emphasizing that the opportunity before the country should be used wisely to write a history that builds and strengthens Ethiopia.
He said moments such as the National Dialogue provide societies with the opportunity to overcome challenges and create lasting solutions, warning that failure to use such opportunities responsibly could lead to missed historic possibilities.
The Prime Minister emphasized that Ethiopia must move away from a political culture where disagreements begin with strong words and end with strong actions, calling for differences to be addressed through consultation, understanding and civilized dialogue.
He noted that Ethiopia, despite its long history, diverse identities and rich civilization, has experienced generations of challenges and unresolved differences. However, he stressed that challenges should not only be viewed as obstacles but also as opportunities to create better solutions and a stronger future.
Prime Minister Abiy said Ethiopia has longstanding traditions of reconciliation, mediation and consultation, emphasizing that strengthening these values can help build a firm foundation for generations to come.
He called on participants to respect diverse perspectives, listen to one another and work toward consensus by prioritizing national interests over narrow considerations.
The Prime Minister said the National Dialogue is an opportunity to address past gaps, repair divisions and establish a foundation that ensures all Ethiopians can share a common future.
He also highlighted Ethiopia’s experience of overcoming difficulties and turning challenges into opportunities, saying the country should continue nurturing positive efforts so their benefits can reach future generations.
Prime Minister Abiy further stated that Ethiopia’s future prosperity depends on using current opportunities responsibly, calling on participants to contribute ideas and solutions that will help build a peaceful, stable and prosperous nation.