The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, held high-level talks with Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Gedion Timothewos, in Addis Ababa, where the two leaders discussed regional peace and security challenges in the Horn of Africa alongside preparations for the 32nd United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP32), which Ethiopia is scheduled to host in 2027. The meeting reflected the continued collaboration between the African Union Commission and the Ethiopian government as both institutions work to address pressing regional priorities while advancing Africa’s role in global climate diplomacy.
According to the African Union Commission, the discussions focused on strengthening cooperation to support peace, stability, and sustainable development across the Horn of Africa, while also coordinating efforts to ensure Ethiopia’s successful organization of COP32. The meeting highlighted the importance of maintaining close institutional collaboration between the AU Commission and the host nation as preparations continue for one of the world’s most significant climate conferences.
Minister Gedion Timothewos emphasized Ethiopia’s commitment to working closely with the African Union and international partners to deliver a successful conference that reflects Africa’s climate priorities and development aspirations. He noted that effective coordination would be essential to ensuring that COP32 advances meaningful dialogue and practical solutions to global environmental challenges.
Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf reaffirmed the African Union Commission’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia throughout the preparation process, underscoring the importance of presenting a united African voice on climate action while promoting peace and security across the continent. He stressed that strong cooperation between continental institutions and host governments is fundamental to the success of major international gatherings and to advancing Africa’s shared strategic objectives.
The meeting comes as Ethiopia continues preparations for hosting COP32 in 2027, an event expected to bring together world leaders, policymakers, scientists, and civil society representatives to negotiate global responses to climate change. African leaders view the conference as an opportunity to highlight the continent’s priorities, including climate resilience, sustainable development, renewable energy, and financing for adaptation, while reinforcing Africa’s growing role in shaping international climate policy.
