Tiibbaa (ፍሬው ከበደ ቲባ)

Our comprehensive efforts to sustainably ensure our country's peace and security have reached a new milestone today. The state of readiness being built within Ethiopia's defense forces is endowing the nation with the capability to preemptively deter aggression. In accordance with our prior agreement with the Russian government, we have today taken delivery of the first twelve Su-35 4++ Generation fighter jets. Additionally, Ethiopia will receive four S-400 air defense system batteries. I would like to express my gratitude to my friend, Russian President Vladimir Putin, for his dedication in ensuring we received these warplanes a year ahead of our agreed schedule. By equipping itself with these fighter jets, Ethiopia has taken the lead among Sub-Saharan African nations. This historic achievement further strengthens our nation's sovereignty, and it will serve as a massive capability boost that allows us to confidently continue our journey toward ensuring our collective security and regional stability in the future.

Today, we officially inaugurated the Megech Irrigation Dam Project, a major milestone for historic Gondar and its surrounding community. Though delayed for years, we resolved execution challenges through the Medemer philosophy to realize this vital project. With a capacity of 185 million cubic meters, the dam will irrigate over 17,000 hectares, directly benefiting tens of thousands of local farmers. Beyond supplying reliable, clean drinking water to Gondar and nearby towns, it stimulates a broader economic growth. The artificial lake will foster urban agriculture, large-scale fisheries, and tourism resorts, creating massive job opportunities for local youth. While this success stems from rigorous monitoring, Gondar still deserves much more development. I urge the public to actively participate in its development. We remain dedicated to ensuring Ethiopia’s progress is inclusive, benefiting all regions and citizens.