Ethiopia commemorated the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations and the country’s role as a founding member with a cultural night at Kuriftu Africa Village on Saturday (December 6). Part of the “Ethiopia’s Month” celebrations, the event brought together ambassadors, government officials, representatives of international organizations, and invited partners, highlighting Ethiopia’s cultural heritage and longstanding partnership with the United Nations.
In his opening remarks, Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timothewos emphasized the role of cultural diplomacy in complementing formal engagement. “Cultural diplomacy allows us to meet one another beyond conference halls,” he said, noting that people-to-people connections enrich traditional diplomacy. He reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to a multilateral system anchored in the UN Charter and highlighted Africa’s increasing engagement within the UN, including in climate diplomacy, peacekeeping, and development.
“Ethiopia is proud of its role as a founding member and remains committed to a multilateral system grounded in the UN Charter,” the Minister added. “Across the broader system, Africa’s contribution is increasingly visible, representing the largest regional group and advocating for a more representative global order.”
UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Aboubacar Kampo reflected on Ethiopia’s long-standing partnership with the UN. “Eighty years ago, from the ashes of a devastating world war, the nations of the world came together to create a bold experiment in peace, the United Nations,” he said. He noted Ethiopia’s early contributions to peacekeeping, leadership in the fight against colonialism, and continued engagement in multilateralism and African unity.
Ambassador Nebiyu Tedla, Director General of Public Diplomacy Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, thanked ambassadors, diplomats, and partners for attending. “Tonight, we celebrate Ethiopia’s colors, music, and traditions, but above all, we celebrate the shared values and humanity that unite us across borders,” he said, noting that the occasion reaffirmed the relevance of cultural diplomacy.
The evening featured traditional music and dance, cultural displays, and Ethiopian cuisine, providing a setting for interaction among attendees and reflecting Ethiopia’s long-standing engagement with the United Nations through both culture and diplomacy.