Türkiye’s Communications Directorate convened a high-level panel in Addis Ababa to celebrate 100 years of diplomatic relations between Türkiye and Ethiopia, underscoring the resilience and strategic depth of ties between the two countries.
The event brought together Ambassador Berk Baran, academics, government officials, journalists, and representatives of international organizations and civil society to examine the political, economic, and cultural dimensions of the longstanding partnership.
Held under the theme “Türkiye-Ethiopia Relations: A Century of Diplomacy, Everlasting Friendship,” the gathering highlighted the evolution of bilateral engagement over the past century and its growing significance in regional affairs.
Participants reflected on the foundations of cooperation and explored opportunities for expanded collaboration in the years ahead.
In a message delivered at the event, Communications Director Burhanettin Duran said relations between the two nations have gained considerable momentum since President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan launched Türkiye’s Africa outreach initiative in 2005.
He noted that Türkiye’s diplomatic footprint across Africa has expanded significantly, with the number of embassies rising from 12 in 2005 to 44 by 2026, demonstrating Ankara’s sustained commitment to the continent.
Duran also pointed to Addis Ababa’s role as host of the African Union and a hub of multilateral diplomacy, emphasizing that Türkiye regards its partnership with Ethiopia as a contribution to peace, stability, and shared prosperity in the Horn of Africa.
Ambassador Baran highlighted the deep historical roots of bilateral relations, recalling that diplomatic contacts date back to 1896 and that Türkiye established its first resident sub-Saharan African embassy in Addis Ababa in 1926.
He described Ethiopia as a key strategic actor in the Horn of Africa and noted the region’s increasing importance in trade, security, and regional stability.
Panelists emphasized the strong foundation of mutual trust and strategic alignment that underpins the relationship. They pointed to expanding cooperation in education, economic engagement, and military capacity-building, while also stressing the importance of enhanced media collaboration and joint efforts to counter disinformation.
Participants described the centenary as not only a milestone but also a launching point for deeper cooperation and sustained partnership in the decades ahead.
