GERD symbolizes global quest to achieve Sustainable Devt Goal 7 on affordable & clean energy – Pres. Taye

Addis Ababa, September 24, 2025 (FMC) — President Taye Atske-Selassie on Monday highlighted the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a landmark achievement and a symbol of the global pursuit of Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG 7).

Speaking during a meeting with Annalena Baerbock, President of the United Nations General Assembly, on the sidelines of the 80th UN General Assembly in New York, President Taye said initiatives like GERD not only advance Ethiopia’s energy sector but also create opportunities for regional integration and international cooperation.

According to the United Nations, SDG 7, or Sustainable Development Goal 7, is one of the UN’s 17 goals, aiming to “Ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all” by 2030. It focuses on expanding clean energy use, improving energy efficiency, and providing universal access to electricity, particularly in developing countries.

In that regard, the two leaders exchanged views on pressing global challenges and the role of multilateralism in promoting peace, security, and sustainable development.

President Taye emphasized that collective efforts are crucial to safeguarding multilateral principles and addressing complex international issues.

For her part, UNGA President Annalena Baerbock reaffirmed the importance of the United Nations Charter in advancing global peace and development, stressing adherence to shared principles as essential for international stability and cooperation.

The discussion also covered Ethiopia’s development priorities, regional peace and security, and the broader agenda of enhancing sustainable development through international partnerships.

Since arriving in New York for the 80th United Nations General Assembly, Ethiopia’s high-level delegation, led by President Taye Atske-Selassie, has actively participated in both the main sessions and a series of bilateral and multilateral meetings.

The delegation engaged with global partners on issues including sustainable development, regional peace and security, health financing, economic cooperation, and multilateral collaboration, reflecting Ethiopia’s commitment to advancing its national interests while promoting broader African and international priorities.

The 80th session of the UN General Assembly commenced on September 23, 2025, under the theme “Better together: 80 years and more for peace, development, and human rights.” The high-level General Debate is scheduled to run through September 27 and conclude on September 29, 2025.