Ethiopian National Dialogue Conference Officially Opens
 
Addis Ababa, July 15, 2026
 
The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission officially launched the National Dialogue Conference on July 15, 2026, at the Addis International Convention Center in Addis Ababa.
 
The opening ceremony brought together senior government officials, including the Prime Minister, presidents of regional states, representatives of the diplomatic community, religious leaders, and other invited guests.
 
Addressing the conference, the Prime Minister called on participants to approach the dialogue with future generations in mind. He emphasized that the success of the process depends on participants placing the interests of Ethiopia above individual, political, or group interests and engaging in the discussions with a shared sense of national responsibility.
 
In his opening remarks, the Chief Commissioner of the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission, Professor Mesfin Araya, underscored that differences of opinion should not be viewed as causes for division. Rather, he noted, they should be regarded as opportunities to deepen understanding, build consensus, and collectively seek solutions to issues of national importance.
 
The National Dialogue Conference marks a significant milestone in Ethiopia’s dialogue process, bringing together participants from across the country to deliberate on nationally identified agenda items in an inclusive and structured setting.