ADDIS ABABA (EI): Heads of the African Union (AU) Commission and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) have extended congratulations to Taye Atske Selassie, upon his appointment as Ethiopia’s incoming President.
Moussa Faki Mahamat, the Chairperson of the African Union (AU) Commission, in a statement released on Monday, warmly acknowledged Taye’s appointment as President of Ethiopia, representing the interests of the continent’s 55-member organization.
The Ethiopian parliament’s two chambers selected Foreign Minister Taye Atske Selassie for the presidency, succeeding Sahle-Work Zewde, who completed her six-year term as the nation’s leader.
Faki also praised Sahle-Work Zewde for her groundbreaking leadership as Ethiopia’s first female president since October 2018, recognizing her significant contributions during her tenure.
He reaffirmed the African Union’s commitment to supporting Ethiopia in its ongoing efforts to enhance democracy and promote sustainable development within the country.
Taye Atske Selassie was sworn in before members of Ethiopia’s House of Peoples’ Representatives and House of Federation, officially taking on his role as president of Africa’s second-most populous nation.
With a distinguished diplomatic career spanning over three decades, including a position as Ethiopia’s permanent representative to the United Nations, Taye has served as the foreign minister since February prior to his recent appointment.
Workneh Gebeyehu, Executive Secretary of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), acknowledged the contributions of in advancing the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia’s interests and fostering regional cooperation. He expressed appreciation for her service and dedication to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the wider region.
As Taye undertakes the responsibilities of the presidency, IGAD reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining and enhancing cooperation with the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia on matters of mutual interest, particularly in the areas of regional integration, peace, and development.
“IGAD looks forward to continued partnership and constructive engagement with the leadership of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia,” the statement read.