Addis Ababa – February 12, 2026 – The official in charge of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Government of National Unity discussed on Thursday with the Special Envoy of the German Government for Africa bilateral relations and ways to develop them, in addition to regional and international issues of common interest, including the unification of positions and the exchange of bilateral support in international positions. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 48th session of the Executive Council of the African Union held in the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Government of National Unity stated that the meeting also addressed Germany’s contribution to supporting the political process in Libya, in addition to the possibility of lifting the European ban on Libyan aviation within European airspace.
Addis Ababa
Addis Ababa is the capital and largest city of Ethiopia, founded in 1886 by Emperor Menelik II. It serves as the political and diplomatic hub of Africa, hosting the headquarters of the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation is the government department of Italy responsible for managing the country’s diplomatic relations and foreign policy. It was established shortly after the unification of Italy in 1861, originally named the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, with its current name reflecting a modern emphasis on global partnership. Its headquarters are located in the Palazzo della Farnesina in Rome, a significant example of Fascist-era architecture.
Government of National Unity
The Government of National Unity (GNU) is a term most notably associated with the post-apartheid transitional government of South Africa, established in 1994 following the country’s first multiracial elections. It was a coalition government led by Nelson Mandela’s African National Congress (ANC) and included other major parties, such as the National Party, to foster reconciliation and stability during the nation’s democratic transition.
German Government
The German Government, based in Berlin, operates as a federal parliamentary republic, with its modern structure established by the 1949 Basic Law (Grundgesetz) following World War II. Key institutions include the Federal Chancellor (Bundeskanzler) as head of government and the Bundestag as the primary legislative body, representing a central pillar of post-war German democracy and European integration.
Africa
Africa is the world’s second-largest continent, recognized as the birthplace of humanity with some of the oldest archaeological evidence of human ancestors. It is home to immensely diverse cultures, languages, and ecosystems, and its history includes powerful ancient kingdoms, the profound impacts of the transatlantic slave trade, and the widespread decolonization movements of the 20th century.
Executive Council of the African Union
The Executive Council of the African Union is a key decision-making body composed of foreign ministers from member states. It prepares the work for the Assembly of Heads of State and Government and is responsible for implementing continental policies in areas like foreign trade, social security, and food agriculture. It was established with the founding of the African Union in 2002, succeeding a similar organ within the earlier Organisation of African Unity.
Ethiopian capital
Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, was founded in 1886 by Emperor Menelik II and became the permanent capital of the Ethiopian Empire. It is notable for hosting the headquarters of the African Union and serves as a major diplomatic and political hub for the continent.
Libya
Libya is a North African country with a rich history rooted in ancient civilizations like the Phoenicians and Romans, followed by centuries of Arab and Ottoman influence. In the modern era, it was an Italian colony before gaining independence in 1951, later becoming known for Muammar Gaddafi’s lengthy rule from 1969 until the 2011 revolution. The country is home to UNESCO World Heritage sites, such as the ruins of Leptis Magna, which testify to its significant historical legacy.
European airspace
European airspace refers to the collective controlled airspace over Europe, managed through a framework of international agreements and organizations like Eurocontrol. Its modern structure emerged after World War II to coordinate increasing civil aviation traffic and ensure safety and efficiency across national borders. This collaborative system is a foundational element of European transportation and economic integration.
