By: Shiferaw Lakew 

In an exclusive interview with Addis Dialogue, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Ethiopia, Professor Ozonnia Ojielo, described Ethiopia as a highly strategic partner for the United Nations, highlighting the country’s growing leadership in regional and global affairs while reaffirming the UN’s commitment to supporting its ongoing reforms, National Dialogue and preparations for COP32.

Prof. Ojielo said Ethiopia has invested significantly in regional institutions and continues to play an active role in the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), helping advance the region’s strategic agenda.

“For the United Nations, Ethiopia is a very strategic partner in terms of our engagement,” he said.

According to Prof. Ojielo, the political and socio-economic changes taking place in Ethiopia are ushering in a new era of cooperation between the United Nations and the country, particularly at a time when the UN itself is undergoing significant transformation.

“Ethiopia is on the cusp of taking some of these new ideas forward and helping shape the future of the relationship between Ethiopia and the United Nations,” he said.

Speaking about Ethiopia’s National Dialogue, Prof. Ojielo emphasised that the process is sovereign and must be owned and led by Ethiopians.

“Ethiopians will come to the dialogue with that Ethiopian spirit. This is the land of origins, and what matters to Ethiopia also matters to Africa,” he said.

He stressed that the United Nations fully respects Ethiopia’s ownership of the dialogue process.

“It is a sovereign process, and we respect that. Our role is only to accompany the process by sharing experience and expertise,” he said.

Prof. Ojielo expressed the UN’s hope for a successful National Dialogue and encouraged Ethiopians to implement the resolutions that emerge from the process.

“We are ready to accompany the implementation of all the outcomes so that the Ethiopia that Ethiopians want can be realised within the shortest possible time,” he said.

The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator also commended Ethiopia’s leadership in global climate action.

“As a United Nations system, we salute the leadership role that Ethiopia is playing. That leadership is reflected in Ethiopia’s prominent role in international climate change negotiations,” he said.

Looking ahead to the 32nd United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP32), which Ethiopia will host next year, Prof. Ojielo described the event as a major opportunity for both Ethiopia and Africa.

“We see COP32 as another African COP—an opportunity for Ethiopia to showcase not only what it has achieved, but also to provide a platform for stronger and deeper conversations on climate action and sustainable development,” he said.

He noted that COP32 presents Ethiopia with a unique opportunity to lead global discussions on energy transition, climate finance and other pressing climate priorities.

“The entire United Nations system in Ethiopia will come together... to support the country in convening a successful COP32 next year,” Prof. Ojielo told Addis Dialogue.

For the complete interview, watch the full conversation on Addis Dialogue:

https://youtu.be/B6_E1W3bE9s?si=TAEe_Z9iThPUZudk