• German foreign minister meets with Ethiopian Premier Abiy Ahmed on official visit to Addis Ababa

ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia / ISTANBUL

Germany on Thursday called for two permanent seats for African states on the UN Security Council, emphasizing the need for greater representation of the continent in international institutions.

Germany is “firmly convinced” that African states “must finally be adequately represented in international institutions,” the German Foreign Ministry said on US social media company X, as Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul continues his state visit to Ethiopia.

The ministry said the African Union (AU) is a “natural partner” for Europeans.

“What unites us is the conviction that integration and rules-based cooperation make us strong and that territorial integrity and political sovereignty must not be up for debate – worldwide,” it said.

Berlin highlighted its commitment to deepening cooperation with the African Union, unveiling a new strategic dialogue aimed at elevating their partnership to a higher level.

“We work closely and confidentially with the African Union, for example on Sudan,” it said.

Wadephul welcomed the AU’s agreement to co-host the Sudan Conference in Berlin on Apr. 15.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed on Thursday held talks with Wadephul to strengthen bilateral relations and regional stability.

In a statement, Abiy said the discussions centered on further deepening the long-standing partnership between the two countries, highlighting areas of mutual interest and cooperation.

The meeting in the capital Addis Ababa comes amid a fragile regional environment, specifically regarding tensions in the north involving Eritrea.

In a statement before his departure from Germany, Wadephul noted Ethiopia’s responsibility for peace and stability in the Horn of Africa region.

"The situation in Tigray and relations with Eritrea remain tense. With my visit, I want to encourage efforts to find solutions for a peaceful balance of interests," he said.

The top diplomat also hinted at Ethiopia's potential for German business.

Germany is a key development partner for Ethiopia and most recently committed €206 million ($241 million) in new funding last December to support this strategic partnership, according to Ethiopia's Finance Ministry.

Wadephul is also expected to meet with his Ethiopian counterpart, Gedion Timotheos, and the African Union Commission chairperson.