#US Congressman Chris Smith welcomes #Israel’s recognition of #Somaliland, urges others to follow
U.S. Representative Chris Smith, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee and co-chair of the Congressional Israel Allies Caucus, welcomed Israel’s formal recognition of the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, calling on other countries, including the United States, to take similar steps.
“I welcome Israel’s formal recognition of the Republic of Somaliland as an independent, sovereign State, and hope that others, including the United States, follow,” Smith said in a statement released following Israel’s announcement.
Smith highlighted Somaliland’s democratic credentials, describing it as a functioning democracy that has demonstrated political maturity through a peaceful transfer of power after elections more than a year ago.
https://www.horndiplomat.com/u-s-congressman-chris-smith-welcomes-israels-recognition-of-somaliland-urges-others-to-follow
U.S. Representative Chris Smith, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee and co-chair of the Congressional Israel Allies Caucus, welcomed Israel’s formal recognition of the Republic of Somaliland as an independent and sovereign state, calling on other countries, including the United States, to take similar steps.
“I welcome Israel’s formal recognition of the Republic of Somaliland as an independent, sovereign State, and hope that others, including the United States, follow,” Smith said in a statement released following Israel’s announcement.
Smith highlighted Somaliland’s democratic credentials, describing it as a functioning democracy that has demonstrated political maturity through a peaceful transfer of power after elections more than a year ago.
https://www.horndiplomat.com/u-s-congressman-chris-smith-welcomes-israels-recognition-of-somaliland-urges-others-to-follow
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#US suspends assistance to #Somalia’s federal government, alleging it seized food aid
The State Department said Wednesday that it has suspended all U.S. assistance to Somalia’s federal government over allegations that Somali officials destroyed an American-funded warehouse belonging to the World Food Program and seized 76 metric tons of food aid intended for impoverished civilians.
“The #Trump Administration has a zero-tolerance policy for waste, theft, and diversion of life-saving assistance,” the department said in a statement.
“The State Department has paused all ongoing U.S. assistance programs which benefit the Somali Federal Government,” it said. “Any resumption of assistance will be dependent upon the Somali Federal Government, taking accountability for its unacceptable actions and taking appropriate remedial steps.”
The suspension comes as the Trump administration has ratcheted up criticism of...
https://apnews.com/article/trump-somalia-food-assistance-suspension-a34b91e229c195a723ce2c8f9e6bb158
The State Department said Wednesday that it has suspended all U.S. assistance to Somalia’s federal government over allegations that Somali officials destroyed an American-funded warehouse belonging to the World Food Program and seized 76 metric tons of food aid intended for impoverished civilians.
“The #Trump Administration has a zero-tolerance policy for waste, theft, and diversion of life-saving assistance,” the department said in a statement.
“The State Department has paused all ongoing U.S. assistance programs which benefit the Somali Federal Government,” it said. “Any resumption of assistance will be dependent upon the Somali Federal Government, taking accountability for its unacceptable actions and taking appropriate remedial steps.”
The suspension comes as the Trump administration has ratcheted up criticism of...
https://apnews.com/article/trump-somalia-food-assistance-suspension-a34b91e229c195a723ce2c8f9e6bb158
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#US denies visas to 14 #Ethiopian athletes ahead of World Cross Country Championships
Ethiopia will be unable to field full under-20 teams at the 2026 World #Athletics Cross Country Championships in the United States after the US Embassy in Addis Abeba denied visas to at least 14 Ethiopian athletes, according to a report by letsrun.com.
The visa rejections mean Ethiopia’s long-standing medal streaks in junior events at the World Cross Country Championships will come to an end. The country has medalled in the U20 men’s race at every edition since 1982 and in the U20 women’s race since 1990.
Amensisa Kebede, general secretary of the Ethiopian Athletics Federation (#EAF), told letsrun.com that six U20 men, four U20 women, and four senior athletes had their visa applications rejected. As a result, Ethiopia will send only one male U20 athlete and three female U20 athletes to the ...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02xtivopBsWGu1toE5ALc9jJ3ha7dS9bA1fCuXqx94W3EL1z6NG7i1cVsaVndnDxG4l
Ethiopia will be unable to field full under-20 teams at the 2026 World #Athletics Cross Country Championships in the United States after the US Embassy in Addis Abeba denied visas to at least 14 Ethiopian athletes, according to a report by letsrun.com.
The visa rejections mean Ethiopia’s long-standing medal streaks in junior events at the World Cross Country Championships will come to an end. The country has medalled in the U20 men’s race at every edition since 1982 and in the U20 women’s race since 1990.
Amensisa Kebede, general secretary of the Ethiopian Athletics Federation (#EAF), told letsrun.com that six U20 men, four U20 women, and four senior athletes had their visa applications rejected. As a result, Ethiopia will send only one male U20 athlete and three female U20 athletes to the ...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02xtivopBsWGu1toE5ALc9jJ3ha7dS9bA1fCuXqx94W3EL1z6NG7i1cVsaVndnDxG4l
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News: #Ethiopia, #UAE reaffirm strategic partnership amid shifting Horn of Africa dynamics
Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have reaffirmed their “comprehensive and strategic partnership” focused on promoting and defending each other’s peace, security, territorial integrity, and economic interests, following high-level talks in Addis Abeba on 6 January 2026.
The discussions between Ethiopian officials and Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of State, highlighted the depth of the bilateral relationship, rooted in mutual respect and decades of cooperation.
In a joint ministerial statement, both sides emphasized their commitment to regional stability, condemning attacks on civilians in Sudan and calling for immediate humanitarian access and an inclusive transition toward a civilian-led government.
This reaffirmation comes amid an increasingly complex regional landscape. Recent reports indicate that Riyadh is wary of the UAE’s ...
Read more: https://addisstandard.com/?p=54454
Ethiopia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have reaffirmed their “comprehensive and strategic partnership” focused on promoting and defending each other’s peace, security, territorial integrity, and economic interests, following high-level talks in Addis Abeba on 6 January 2026.
The discussions between Ethiopian officials and Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of State, highlighted the depth of the bilateral relationship, rooted in mutual respect and decades of cooperation.
In a joint ministerial statement, both sides emphasized their commitment to regional stability, condemning attacks on civilians in Sudan and calling for immediate humanitarian access and an inclusive transition toward a civilian-led government.
This reaffirmation comes amid an increasingly complex regional landscape. Recent reports indicate that Riyadh is wary of the UAE’s ...
Read more: https://addisstandard.com/?p=54454
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#Saudi-led coalition says STC’s al-Zubaidi fled to #UAE via #Somaliland
Secessionist leader took a boat to Berbera and then boarded a plane that flew to Abu Dhabi via Mogadishu, coalition says.
The Saudi Arabia-led coalition in #Yemen has announced that the leader of the secessionist Southern Transitional Council (#STC) has fled to the United Arab Emirates via Somaliland after skipping planned peace talks in Riyadh.
In a statement on Thursday, the coalition said Aidarous al-Zubaidi “escaped in the dead of night” on Wednesday on board a vessel that departed Aden in Yemen for the port of #Berbera in Somaliland.
Al-Zubaidi then boarded a plane along with UAE officers and flew to Somalia’s capital, #Mogadishu. “The plane turned off its identification systems over the Gulf of Oman, then turned it back on 10 minutes prior to arrival at Al Reef military airport in Abu Dhabi,” the statement said...
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/1/8/saudi-led-coalition-says-stcs-al-zubaidi-fled-to-uae-via-somaliland.
Secessionist leader took a boat to Berbera and then boarded a plane that flew to Abu Dhabi via Mogadishu, coalition says.
The Saudi Arabia-led coalition in #Yemen has announced that the leader of the secessionist Southern Transitional Council (#STC) has fled to the United Arab Emirates via Somaliland after skipping planned peace talks in Riyadh.
In a statement on Thursday, the coalition said Aidarous al-Zubaidi “escaped in the dead of night” on Wednesday on board a vessel that departed Aden in Yemen for the port of #Berbera in Somaliland.
Al-Zubaidi then boarded a plane along with UAE officers and flew to Somalia’s capital, #Mogadishu. “The plane turned off its identification systems over the Gulf of Oman, then turned it back on 10 minutes prior to arrival at Al Reef military airport in Abu Dhabi,” the statement said...
https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2026/1/8/saudi-led-coalition-says-stcs-al-zubaidi-fled-to-uae-via-somaliland.
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#PM_Abiy receives #China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi as Beijing launches annual Africa tour in Addis Abeba
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today received China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi, at the National Palace, on the occasion of the Chinese foreign minister’s two-day official visit to Ethiopia.
According to the Office of the Prime Minister, the meeting focused on #Ethiopia–China bilateral relations as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest.
Wang Yi’s visit to Ethiopia is part of a broader weeklong tour of African countries, which also includes #Somalia, #Tanzania, and #Lesotho, running from January 7 to 12, according to a statement from China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During his stay in Addis Abeba, the Chinese foreign minister is also expected to attend the launching ceremony of the China–Africa “Year of People-to-People Exchanges” at the ...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid0gB3mnnSDnGzVJ7ZRRYZ6wP3ETP2wi1qjeThtXHc5s44mFmPp7cRVSQvzCMHHYKd8l
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed today received China’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wang Yi, at the National Palace, on the occasion of the Chinese foreign minister’s two-day official visit to Ethiopia.
According to the Office of the Prime Minister, the meeting focused on #Ethiopia–China bilateral relations as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest.
Wang Yi’s visit to Ethiopia is part of a broader weeklong tour of African countries, which also includes #Somalia, #Tanzania, and #Lesotho, running from January 7 to 12, according to a statement from China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
During his stay in Addis Abeba, the Chinese foreign minister is also expected to attend the launching ceremony of the China–Africa “Year of People-to-People Exchanges” at the ...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid0gB3mnnSDnGzVJ7ZRRYZ6wP3ETP2wi1qjeThtXHc5s44mFmPp7cRVSQvzCMHHYKd8l
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#Op_ed: Aid with Strings Attached: How new health pact with U.S. challenges #Ethiopia’s autonomy
In this op-ed, Yirgalem Addisu argues that Ethiopia’s five-year, $1.46 billion health cooperation MoU with the #United_States should be seen not only as humanitarian support but as “a strategic arrangement” with lasting political implications.
Although framed around “saving lives,” the agreement is anchored in #Washington’s “America First Global Health Strategy,” which prioritizes U.S. interests. He notes, “The MoU commits Ethiopia to extensive data sharing…while granting the United States significant leverage over the continuation of funding.”
The author emphasizes that Ethiopia’s current political and economic strains risk turning “partnership” into conditional compliance. The central question, he contends, is not whether cooperation is necessary—but “on whose terms, with what safeguards, and at what cost.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=54451
In this op-ed, Yirgalem Addisu argues that Ethiopia’s five-year, $1.46 billion health cooperation MoU with the #United_States should be seen not only as humanitarian support but as “a strategic arrangement” with lasting political implications.
Although framed around “saving lives,” the agreement is anchored in #Washington’s “America First Global Health Strategy,” which prioritizes U.S. interests. He notes, “The MoU commits Ethiopia to extensive data sharing…while granting the United States significant leverage over the continuation of funding.”
The author emphasizes that Ethiopia’s current political and economic strains risk turning “partnership” into conditional compliance. The central question, he contends, is not whether cooperation is necessary—but “on whose terms, with what safeguards, and at what cost.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=54451
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#Ethiopia: Banks must be licensed and provide forex services to operate in Special Economic Zones, National Bank rules
The National Bank of Ethiopia (#NBE) has issued a directive outlining licensing and operational requirements for banks seeking to operate in Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
Under the new rules, banks may not operate in an SEZ without an NBE-approved branch and are required to provide foreign exchange services within the zone. All banking services must be made available to individuals and businesses operating inside the SEZ, the directive states.
To qualify, banks must meet minimum prudential and market requirements, including holding at least one percent of total banking sector assets, maintaining a capital adequacy ratio two percentage points above the regulatory minimum, meeting liquidity standards, and keeping non-performing loans within regulatory ...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid033p6BWcx5B6y29NcDjpRAWFLyASYLcrWtX8zo1ZEdzUDH4GxgbVca2iGQxJZ5eN2Yl
The National Bank of Ethiopia (#NBE) has issued a directive outlining licensing and operational requirements for banks seeking to operate in Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
Under the new rules, banks may not operate in an SEZ without an NBE-approved branch and are required to provide foreign exchange services within the zone. All banking services must be made available to individuals and businesses operating inside the SEZ, the directive states.
To qualify, banks must meet minimum prudential and market requirements, including holding at least one percent of total banking sector assets, maintaining a capital adequacy ratio two percentage points above the regulatory minimum, meeting liquidity standards, and keeping non-performing loans within regulatory ...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid033p6BWcx5B6y29NcDjpRAWFLyASYLcrWtX8zo1ZEdzUDH4GxgbVca2iGQxJZ5eN2Yl
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#Ethiopia: Afar police detain nearly 8,000 people linked to illegal trafficking in six months
The #Afar Regional Police Commission said it has detained nearly 8,000 people over the past six months as part of intensified operations against illegal human trafficking routes passing through the region.
In a statement, Police Commissioner Bile Ahmed said more than 7,900 citizens who had been deceived by illegal brokers while attempting to travel through various trafficking corridors were taken into custody during the period.
He noted that, in addition to routine security duties, the police deployed large numbers of personnel to conduct continuous monitoring at checkpoints and along key transit routes.
The returnees were sent back to areas including #Kombolcha, #Alamata, #Mekelle, #Kemise, #Adama, and parts of #Hararghe, where they were reintegrated into their communities.
The commissioner also condemned what he described as false allegations circulating on...
Read more: https://addisstandard.com/?p=54457
The #Afar Regional Police Commission said it has detained nearly 8,000 people over the past six months as part of intensified operations against illegal human trafficking routes passing through the region.
In a statement, Police Commissioner Bile Ahmed said more than 7,900 citizens who had been deceived by illegal brokers while attempting to travel through various trafficking corridors were taken into custody during the period.
He noted that, in addition to routine security duties, the police deployed large numbers of personnel to conduct continuous monitoring at checkpoints and along key transit routes.
The returnees were sent back to areas including #Kombolcha, #Alamata, #Mekelle, #Kemise, #Adama, and parts of #Hararghe, where they were reintegrated into their communities.
The commissioner also condemned what he described as false allegations circulating on...
Read more: https://addisstandard.com/?p=54457
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#Somalia’s fight against extremist militants shows signs of success on the streets of #Mogadishu
Mogadishu’s first line of defense against the next militant attack on Somalia ’s capital ranges from machine gunners in pick-up trucks to young men in plainclothes manning checkpoints.
One of the leaders is Abdikani Ali Mohamed, a teenage-faced colonel whose authority has grown in the city as Somalia’s government tries to dismantle al-Shabab networks.
Mohamed’s operatives are so suspicious that even an armored vehicle — the ultimate status symbol beloved by important people — triggers alarm if it has not passed through a checkpoint for days.
“What we have clearly understood is these people ( al-Shabab ) are always evolving,” Mohamed said. “The strategy is always evolving in terms of attack mechanisms and the complexity they are utilizing.”
After his election in 2022, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud ...
https://apnews.com/article/somalia-intelligence-alshabab-militants-64cfbc1e76f2eb6bf9556332fae7f6f7
Mogadishu’s first line of defense against the next militant attack on Somalia ’s capital ranges from machine gunners in pick-up trucks to young men in plainclothes manning checkpoints.
One of the leaders is Abdikani Ali Mohamed, a teenage-faced colonel whose authority has grown in the city as Somalia’s government tries to dismantle al-Shabab networks.
Mohamed’s operatives are so suspicious that even an armored vehicle — the ultimate status symbol beloved by important people — triggers alarm if it has not passed through a checkpoint for days.
“What we have clearly understood is these people ( al-Shabab ) are always evolving,” Mohamed said. “The strategy is always evolving in terms of attack mechanisms and the complexity they are utilizing.”
After his election in 2022, President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud ...
https://apnews.com/article/somalia-intelligence-alshabab-militants-64cfbc1e76f2eb6bf9556332fae7f6f7
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Just 53 Miles: #Ethiopian Airlines launches #Europe's shortest Airbus A350 Flights
Ethiopian Airlines is Africa's largest carrier, although there is not much competition for that title. On January 6, the Star Alliance member announced its latest European city: #Lyon. It'll fly there via #Geneva. Ethiopian has many existing one-stop European routes.
The Geneva-Lyon leg will cover just 53 nautical miles (98 km) each way. It will, unsurprisingly, become Europe's new shortest Airbus A350 operation and shortest scheduled widebody service. But there's a downside. Fifth freedom traffic rights do not seem to be available.
Ethiopian has served #France for decades. For most of the time, this necessarily meant Paris CDG. Things have changed in recent years, coinciding with its aggressive expansion and its critical role in connecting Africa to the world. In 2019, the carrier began Marseille ...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid0iq9HVWj7sehWfhQxUBS7Sodg1b7qoYdjJbwy1837h5W7a7Sp4xZnyH9teFgMt6qul
Ethiopian Airlines is Africa's largest carrier, although there is not much competition for that title. On January 6, the Star Alliance member announced its latest European city: #Lyon. It'll fly there via #Geneva. Ethiopian has many existing one-stop European routes.
The Geneva-Lyon leg will cover just 53 nautical miles (98 km) each way. It will, unsurprisingly, become Europe's new shortest Airbus A350 operation and shortest scheduled widebody service. But there's a downside. Fifth freedom traffic rights do not seem to be available.
Ethiopian has served #France for decades. For most of the time, this necessarily meant Paris CDG. Things have changed in recent years, coinciding with its aggressive expansion and its critical role in connecting Africa to the world. In 2019, the carrier began Marseille ...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid0iq9HVWj7sehWfhQxUBS7Sodg1b7qoYdjJbwy1837h5W7a7Sp4xZnyH9teFgMt6qul
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The Standard Signal | Episodes 1–8 Recap: War, Power, Peace & Ethiopia’s Unfinished Crisis
From war narratives and Red Sea rhetoric to broken peace talks, targeted violence, and the collapse of democratic transition—The Standard Signal has been tracking Ethiopia’s unfolding crises in real time.
This recap brings together key moments from Episodes 1–8 of The Standard Signal, a podcast by Addis Standard, hosted by Tsedale Lemma, featuring leading scholars, political figures, and activists.
Across these episodes, the conversations examine:
• How war narratives are manufactured and normalized
• The dangers of nationalist rhetoric and propaganda
• Ethiopia’s shifting foreign policy doctrine toward Eritrea
• The systematic targeting of Karrayyu Gadaa leaders
• The deepening crisis in the Amhara region
• Broken peace promises with ONLF and resource politics in the Somali region
• Moral collapse, cultivated silence, and collective responsibility
• Why repeated peace talks with OLF/OLA have failed to end the war in Oromia
Together, these episodes expose the structures of power, impunity, and political failure shaping Ethiopia’s present—and its uncertain future.
📌 Watch the full episodes https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLg0BzUe3g4CxZ_eNWV2_N2o7AOrsQoaHV
📌 Subscribe for in-depth analysis, not soundbites
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuFmjW7GtIE
From war narratives and Red Sea rhetoric to broken peace talks, targeted violence, and the collapse of democratic transition—The Standard Signal has been tracking Ethiopia’s unfolding crises in real time.
This recap brings together key moments from Episodes 1–8 of The Standard Signal, a podcast by Addis Standard, hosted by Tsedale Lemma, featuring leading scholars, political figures, and activists.
Across these episodes, the conversations examine:
• How war narratives are manufactured and normalized
• The dangers of nationalist rhetoric and propaganda
• Ethiopia’s shifting foreign policy doctrine toward Eritrea
• The systematic targeting of Karrayyu Gadaa leaders
• The deepening crisis in the Amhara region
• Broken peace promises with ONLF and resource politics in the Somali region
• Moral collapse, cultivated silence, and collective responsibility
• Why repeated peace talks with OLF/OLA have failed to end the war in Oromia
Together, these episodes expose the structures of power, impunity, and political failure shaping Ethiopia’s present—and its uncertain future.
📌 Watch the full episodes https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLg0BzUe3g4CxZ_eNWV2_N2o7AOrsQoaHV
📌 Subscribe for in-depth analysis, not soundbites
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuFmjW7GtIE
YouTube
The Standard Signal | Episodes 1–8 Recap: War, Power, Peace & Ethiopia’s Unfinished Crisis
From war narratives and Red Sea rhetoric to broken peace talks, targeted violence, and the collapse of democratic transition—The Standard Signal has been tracking Ethiopia’s unfolding crises in real time.
This recap brings together key moments from Episodes…
This recap brings together key moments from Episodes…
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#Somalia denies #US allegation that it destroyed food aid warehouse
Somalia’s government on Thursday denied an allegation by the U.S. government that authorities in Mogadishu destroyed an American-funded warehouse belonging to the World Food Program and seized food aid earmarked for impoverished civilians.
The U.S. State Department said Wednesday that it has suspended all assistance from Washington to Somalia’s federal government over the allegations, saying the #Trump administration has “a zero-tolerance policy for waste, theft and diversion of life-saving assistance.”
A senior U.S. State Department official said authorities at the Mogadishu port demolished the warehouse of the World Food Program, a Rome-based U.N. agency, at the direction of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud “with no prior notification or coordination with international donor countries, including the United States.” The ...
https://apnews.com/article/somalia-united-states-world-food-program-warehouse-ad0befb6d102a18365ad91bfee9845a9
Somalia’s government on Thursday denied an allegation by the U.S. government that authorities in Mogadishu destroyed an American-funded warehouse belonging to the World Food Program and seized food aid earmarked for impoverished civilians.
The U.S. State Department said Wednesday that it has suspended all assistance from Washington to Somalia’s federal government over the allegations, saying the #Trump administration has “a zero-tolerance policy for waste, theft and diversion of life-saving assistance.”
A senior U.S. State Department official said authorities at the Mogadishu port demolished the warehouse of the World Food Program, a Rome-based U.N. agency, at the direction of President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud “with no prior notification or coordination with international donor countries, including the United States.” The ...
https://apnews.com/article/somalia-united-states-world-food-program-warehouse-ad0befb6d102a18365ad91bfee9845a9
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#Ethiopia Habtemariam named #HYBE America president of music
HYBE #America has announced influential music industry exec Ethiopia #Habtemariam as President of Music, effective immediately.
Habtemariam joins HYBE America as the company continues to expand its influence across music, fandom, & global culture, the announcement states.
In the role, Habtemariam will help advance the company’s long-term growth strategy, spearheading A&R and artist development initiatives across its label ecosystem and identify new creative and commercial opportunities.
She will also play a key role in expanding HYBE America’s presence in her hometown of Atlanta, a global epicenter of R&B and hip-hop, further strengthening Quality Control’s presence & impact as Atlanta’s premier music company. Habtemariam will be based in Los Angeles and Atlanta.
“Ethiopia is a once-in-a-generation leader whose impact ...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02RK3yquQvjPc9MqCPMrYjkHYNo6scLkqhm52qxVs7XE28ELecMQqcSfE6qzovta4hl
HYBE #America has announced influential music industry exec Ethiopia #Habtemariam as President of Music, effective immediately.
Habtemariam joins HYBE America as the company continues to expand its influence across music, fandom, & global culture, the announcement states.
In the role, Habtemariam will help advance the company’s long-term growth strategy, spearheading A&R and artist development initiatives across its label ecosystem and identify new creative and commercial opportunities.
She will also play a key role in expanding HYBE America’s presence in her hometown of Atlanta, a global epicenter of R&B and hip-hop, further strengthening Quality Control’s presence & impact as Atlanta’s premier music company. Habtemariam will be based in Los Angeles and Atlanta.
“Ethiopia is a once-in-a-generation leader whose impact ...
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02RK3yquQvjPc9MqCPMrYjkHYNo6scLkqhm52qxVs7XE28ELecMQqcSfE6qzovta4hl
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News: #Ethiopia rejects all forms of #Taiwan independence, backs Beijing’s reunification efforts
Ethiopia has reaffirmed its firm commitment to the One-China principle, declaring that Taiwan is an inalienable part of #China and that the Government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal representative of the entire Chinese territory.
Ethiopia also stated that it firmly opposes all forms of Taiwan independence and supports all efforts by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification, while defending the authority of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758.
The announcement came as part of a joint press release following talks between China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Ethiopian leaders, including Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos, during Wang’s visit to Ethiopia from January 7 to 9, 2026.
According to the statement released by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both countries ....
Read more: https://addisstandard.com/?p=54465
Ethiopia has reaffirmed its firm commitment to the One-China principle, declaring that Taiwan is an inalienable part of #China and that the Government of the People’s Republic of China is the sole legal representative of the entire Chinese territory.
Ethiopia also stated that it firmly opposes all forms of Taiwan independence and supports all efforts by the Chinese government to achieve national reunification, while defending the authority of UN General Assembly Resolution 2758.
The announcement came as part of a joint press release following talks between China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Ethiopian leaders, including Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos, during Wang’s visit to Ethiopia from January 7 to 9, 2026.
According to the statement released by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, both countries ....
Read more: https://addisstandard.com/?p=54465
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#Opinion: When Power Shifts, Conscience Follows: Why #Ethiopians should judge leaders by character, not rhetoric
This opinion piece analyzes Getachew Reda’s shifting political stance—as “a forceful defender” of the federal government, then “a vocal critic” during the #Tigray war, and now “a conciliatory role”—as emblematic of a broader trend in Ethiopian politics: “the inclination of political figures to adjust their principles in response to shifting power.”
It argues, “When a political figure who once condemned state violence in unequivocal terms later adopts a conciliatory posture toward the same centers of power without a clear public reckoning, citizens are entitled to ask difficult questions.”
“A political actor who repeatedly adjusts moral positions to align with the strongest force in the room is not evolving in principle but adapting for survival.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=54462
This opinion piece analyzes Getachew Reda’s shifting political stance—as “a forceful defender” of the federal government, then “a vocal critic” during the #Tigray war, and now “a conciliatory role”—as emblematic of a broader trend in Ethiopian politics: “the inclination of political figures to adjust their principles in response to shifting power.”
It argues, “When a political figure who once condemned state violence in unequivocal terms later adopts a conciliatory posture toward the same centers of power without a clear public reckoning, citizens are entitled to ask difficult questions.”
“A political actor who repeatedly adjusts moral positions to align with the strongest force in the room is not evolving in principle but adapting for survival.”
https://addisstandard.com/?p=54462
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#Chinese, #Iranian warships in South Africa for exercises
Chinese and Iranian warships were docked off #South_Africa's main navy base Thursday ahead of exercises that officials said were also meant to involve Russia.
The January 9-16 "Will for Peace" drill hosted by South Africa risks further straining its ties with the United States, which is in dispute with many of the countries taking part.
AFP journalists saw two Chinese ships in Cape Town's False Bay harbour on Wednesday, joined by an Iranian vessel on Thursday.
South African navy officials said warships from Russia were also expected to take part in the China-led exercises.
The drill was focused on the "safety of shipping and maritime economic activities", the South African defence force said in December when it announced the manoeuvres.
It was intended to "deepen cooperation in support of peaceful maritime security.....
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02cNLKfyDY7f5TzDfBXwedALb882S7GGAnpTEGAeUMohscYQBAnqhNvo2pjAYUyV3kl
Chinese and Iranian warships were docked off #South_Africa's main navy base Thursday ahead of exercises that officials said were also meant to involve Russia.
The January 9-16 "Will for Peace" drill hosted by South Africa risks further straining its ties with the United States, which is in dispute with many of the countries taking part.
AFP journalists saw two Chinese ships in Cape Town's False Bay harbour on Wednesday, joined by an Iranian vessel on Thursday.
South African navy officials said warships from Russia were also expected to take part in the China-led exercises.
The drill was focused on the "safety of shipping and maritime economic activities", the South African defence force said in December when it announced the manoeuvres.
It was intended to "deepen cooperation in support of peaceful maritime security.....
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02cNLKfyDY7f5TzDfBXwedALb882S7GGAnpTEGAeUMohscYQBAnqhNvo2pjAYUyV3kl
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News: #Ethiopian authority issues safety alert on contaminated Nestlé infant Formula
The Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (#EFDA) has issued a safety alert after receiving information from #Nestlé about contamination detected in certain infant and toddler formula products, specifically under the brand NAN Special Pro HA 0-12.
The alert, released on January 8, 2026, calls for the withdrawal of the product from the market and urges the public to stop using it immediately.
The affected product carries the following details: Batch Number: 51660742F3, Production Date: 15 June 2025, Expiry Date: 15 December 2026, and Weight: 800g.
EFDA noted that although the product is not registered or authorized for market use in Ethiopia, it may still appear through unauthorized channels. The authority warned that supplying the product to the public in any way is strictly prohibited....
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid032eALqo9MZsgbsyJf33d8zw5rRRT84dJYKeX2nPNnidrVm1hb2gj4PaLHvJsqvDTHl
The Ethiopian Food and Drug Authority (#EFDA) has issued a safety alert after receiving information from #Nestlé about contamination detected in certain infant and toddler formula products, specifically under the brand NAN Special Pro HA 0-12.
The alert, released on January 8, 2026, calls for the withdrawal of the product from the market and urges the public to stop using it immediately.
The affected product carries the following details: Batch Number: 51660742F3, Production Date: 15 June 2025, Expiry Date: 15 December 2026, and Weight: 800g.
EFDA noted that although the product is not registered or authorized for market use in Ethiopia, it may still appear through unauthorized channels. The authority warned that supplying the product to the public in any way is strictly prohibited....
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid032eALqo9MZsgbsyJf33d8zw5rRRT84dJYKeX2nPNnidrVm1hb2gj4PaLHvJsqvDTHl
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#Saudi_Arabia moves to rein in #UAE after Yemen exposes rivalry
Saudi Arabia is moving to end the role of the United Arab Emirates in #Yemen and diminish its neighbor’s influence in other arenas, including the Red Sea, as tensions rise in the longstanding rivalry between the two Gulf powerhouses.
After ordering the UAE to withdraw troops from Yemen and bombing a shipment of weapons it said Abu Dhabi was delivering to secessionists, #Riyadh is now looking to bring all UAE-backed factions in the deeply divided country under its control, according to two people briefed on the situation. The two OPEC+ members have jockeyed for influence in the war-torn, strategically located nation for years.
The fallout between the #Arab world’s two biggest economies — and key American allies — will have repercussions far beyond Yemen. It could impact efforts to contain Iran and ensure the Gaza ......
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02znoqYaEtyk1HsgV2jV9vdRBHHaCpT4SHqC4TrcpopGsqj4KupLe7ZnQRghdcsYvLl
Saudi Arabia is moving to end the role of the United Arab Emirates in #Yemen and diminish its neighbor’s influence in other arenas, including the Red Sea, as tensions rise in the longstanding rivalry between the two Gulf powerhouses.
After ordering the UAE to withdraw troops from Yemen and bombing a shipment of weapons it said Abu Dhabi was delivering to secessionists, #Riyadh is now looking to bring all UAE-backed factions in the deeply divided country under its control, according to two people briefed on the situation. The two OPEC+ members have jockeyed for influence in the war-torn, strategically located nation for years.
The fallout between the #Arab world’s two biggest economies — and key American allies — will have repercussions far beyond Yemen. It could impact efforts to contain Iran and ensure the Gaza ......
https://web.facebook.com/AddisstandardEng/posts/pfbid02znoqYaEtyk1HsgV2jV9vdRBHHaCpT4SHqC4TrcpopGsqj4KupLe7ZnQRghdcsYvLl
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