Ethiomonitor – Addis Ababa
February 18 2026
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed welcomed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on Tuesday in a formal ceremony in Addis Ababa, which commenced with the national anthems of both nations.
Following the ceremonial welcome, a bilateral meeting took place, as reported by an Anadolu Agency correspondent.
Before the official proceedings, Erdoğan laid a wreath at the Victory Monument, accompanied by Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gideon Timojeos and Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abebe.
During a joint press conference with Ahmed, Erdoğan praised Ethiopia’s invaluable role in Islamic culture, specifically highlighting the Al-Najashi Mausoleum and Mosque as vital ties that bind the two nations. He remarked, “The tomb and mosque of Al-Najashi, known as the first settlement of Muslims in Africa, hold great importance for our cultural connections.”
Erdoğan noted the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA)’s efforts in preserving this cultural heritage, stating, “We have not only safeguarded a significant cultural treasure but have also strengthened our long-standing friendship with Ethiopia.”
Highlighting educational initiatives, he mentioned the ongoing work of the Turkish Maarif Foundation in Ethiopia and affirmed Turkey’s commitment to equal partnership and mutual understanding in the region.
Additionally, Erdoğan addressed regional stability, urging Horn of Africa nations to collaboratively solve their challenges and prevent the area from becoming a battleground for foreign powers. He announced that Turkish investments in Ethiopia have reached approximately $2.5 billion, with over 200 Turkish companies engaged in 15 construction projects totaling around $2.6 billion.
