Ethiopia marks UN 80th Anniversary at Africa Hall, commemorating the legacy of partnership and multilateralism

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, 24 October 2025 (ECA) - In the historic Africa Hall, the very chamber where the Organization of African Unity (predecessor to the African Union) was born, senior UN officials and diplomats gathered today to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the United Nations, celebrating a legacy of partnership and looking toward a future of renewed collaboration.

The event, held under the theme "Ethiopia and the United Nations: Past, Present and Future," was framed as both a reflection on decades of cooperation and a recommitment to the founding ideals of the global body.

"This celebration represents both a moment of reflection and of renewal," said Mr. Claver Gatete, the Executive Secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), in his opening remarks. He highlighted the significance of the venue, calling Africa Hall "the home of African multilateralism" and a "proud seat" of the ECA for over sixty years.

Gatete drew a direct line from the hall's historic role in igniting Africa's journey toward freedom and unity to the current work of the African Union and the continent's ambitious Agenda 2063.

In a tribute to the enduring UN-Ethiopia relationship, Gatete commended the Ethiopian government and people for their "steadfast partnership, gracious hospitality and firm commitment to the ideals of the United Nations."

"Ethiopia's leadership and generosity, as host of the ECA and as a champion of multilateralism, continue to inspire our collective work for peace, development and unity across the continent," he stated.

Eighty years of the UN is a milestone, but it is also a mandate to do better with equity, reform, respect for sovereignty, said Berhanu Tsegay, Ethiopia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs State Minister. He urged stronger support for peace, development and justice in a changing world.

For his part, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf said the African Union and the UN are sister institutions bound by shared values and commitment to Agenda 2063 and Agenda 2030. He reaffirmed the AU's commitment to multilateralism and the implementation of the two shared goals urging for the need to "act together in the face of rising global challenges."

The Executive Secretary acknowledged the critical role of the international community, the diplomatic corps, and UN staff, noting their collaborative efforts have advanced the UN's mission across Africa. This work, he said, spans from peacekeeping and humanitarian aid to the ongoing push to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.

Mr Gatete also honored the "women and men of the United Nations - past and present - whose professionalism and dedication bring the Charter's vision to life every day."

He urged a renewed commitment to building "a more peaceful, just and sustainable world for us all and generations to come."

Issued by:Communications SectionEconomic Commission for AfricaPO Box 3001Addis AbabaEthiopiaTel: +251 11 551 5826E-mail: [email protected]