H.E. Mrs. Semereta Sewasew Holds Courtesy Meetings with the Secretary-General and the current President-in-Office of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) ahead of the 121st Ministerial Session

On July 14, 2026, ahead of the 121st Session of the OACPS Council of Ministers, H.E. Mrs. Semereta Sewasew, State Minister of Finance of Ethiopia, held key bilateral meetings with the OACPS Secretary-General, H.E. Mr. Moussa Saleh Batraki, and the current President-in-Office of the Council, Honourable Seedy K.M. Keitta, Minister of Finance and Economy of The Gambia.

The discussions focused on ensuring a seamless transition as Ethiopia prepares to assume the presidency of the OACPS from August 1, 2026, to January 31, 2027.

During her meeting with Honourable Keitta, H.E. Mrs. Semereta expressed appreciation for the dedicated leadership demonstrated by The Gambia during its tenure as President-in-Office and sought his advice to ensure successful transition.

Honourable Minister Keitta, commended the successful economic and institutional reforms currently underway in Ethiopia, describing them as a leading example for the African continent. He stressed the urgent need to address outstanding membership contributions and the fulfilment of voluntary pledges made at the 11th Malabo Summit of the OACPS. The two Ministers exchanged views on how to enable the Secretariat to ensure transparency and accountability.

In her meeting with Secretary-General Batraki, Her Excellency outlined some of Ethiopia’s priorities of the Presidency. Expressing high expectations from Ethiopia’s leadership, Mr. Batraki highlighted the nation’s historical role and pledged the Secretariat’s full support.

Both meetings highlighted Ethiopia’s readiness to collaborate closely with the Secretariat and the outgoing chairmanship to fulfil its mandate. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening South-South cooperation and to working together to advance the Organization’s strategic objectives.