Ethiopia: Ethiopia's Green Legacy Initiative represents a collective effort to plant hope for a better future, peace, and solidarity in the region and across the continent, Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos said.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, resident ambassadors from different countries and members of the diplomatic community joined the nationwide tree-planting campaign today in support of Ethiopia's preparations for the 32nd UN Climate Change Conference (COP32). The tree-planting program was held in Bishoftu City of Oromia Regional State as part of Ethiopia's Green Legacy Initiative, contributing to the national target of planting 800 million tree seedlings within a day.
The participants planted fruit-bearing seedlings during the event to support efforts aimed at enhancing food security, promoting environmental sustainability, and strengthening climate resilience. On this occasion, the Minister noted that the initiative represents a collective effort to plant hope for a better future, peace, and solidarity in the region and across the continent. "Today, we plant hope for shared prosperity. We plant hope for a better future, for peace and solidarity in our region and in our continent," he said.
Gedion added that the day is not for speeches, protocol, declarations, or resolutions. Today is a day for action, he stated, emphasizing the importance of practical efforts in addressing shared challenges. Speaking to journalists, the Minister said the seedlings planted, including avocado, olive, and lemon trees, have economic value as they grow and produce fruits. Follow-up support will be provided in collaboration with the local community to ensure the seedlings thrive and benefit residents economically.
The tree-planting demonstrates Ethiopia's commitment to combating climate change through practical action, Gedion said, adding that the locality where the planting took place is among the locations guests attending COP32 are expected to stay and pass through. The Minister further highlighted that Ethiopia's Green Legacy Initiative and other climate-related policy measures have strengthened the country's role in global green diplomacy and contributed to its recognition as a leader in climate action, including the selection of Ethiopia to host major international climate forums such as COP32.
Planting trees alongside ambassadors and diplomats from neighboring countries also contributes to strengthening regional cooperation by sharing Ethiopia's experiences and encouraging similar initiatives across the region, according to Gedion. Today's tree-planting program forms part of Ethiopia's broader Green Legacy Initiative, which reflects the country's climate action efforts and preparations to host the COP32.