Taye Atske Selassie assumed the presidency of Ethiopia on 7 October 2024 following the removal of his predecessor, Sahle-Work Zewde. His appointment to the head of state position followed a brief tenure as the country’s minister of foreign affairs earlier that same year, marking a rapid ascent within the nation's political structure during a period of significant administrative transition.
Academic and Early Professional Foundation
Born in 1956 in Debarq, Gondar, Taye pursued higher education at Addis Ababa University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and International Relations. He later attended the University of Lancaster, completing a Master of Arts in International Relations and Strategic Studies in 1989. His early professional path began within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, holding roles such as consultant in the European Department, head of the Western Europe Department, and acting Director of Information.
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Taye gained extensive experience in overseas postings. He served as Minister Counsellor at the Ethiopian embassy and acted as consul general in Los Angeles between October 2002 and November 2010. His later diplomatic career included a term as ambassador to Egypt from 2017 to 2018. Following this, he transitioned to the role of permanent representative to the United Nations for Ethiopia, where he notably challenged findings presented by the International Commission of Human Rights Experts regarding the Tigray war.
Ministerial Tenure and Negotiations
On 8 February 2024, Taye succeeded Demeke Mekonnen as the minister of foreign affairs. During this brief ministerial period, he facilitated indirect negotiations with Somalia, mediated by Turkey. These talks centered on a proposed agreement involving Ethiopia leasing 20 kilometres of coastline from Somaliland in exchange for formal diplomatic recognition.
Transition to the Presidency
As a political ally of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, Taye rose to the presidency in October 2024. His duties have included international representation, such as his visit to Moscow in May 2025 at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin to participate in the 80th Anniversary of Victory Day commemorations.
Fast facts
- Born: 1956, Debarq, Gondar
- Education: Addis Ababa University; University of Lancaster
- Foreign Minister term: February 2024 – October 2024
- President of Ethiopia: October 2024 – present
- Previous role: Permanent representative to the United Nations
- Ambassador to Egypt: 2017–2018
Questions readers ask
What diplomatic experience did Taye Atske Selassie have before becoming president?
He served as the permanent representative to the United Nations, ambassador to Egypt, and consul general, among other roles in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
What was the focus of his time as foreign minister?
His tenure was primarily defined by indirect negotiations with Somalia regarding a potential coastline lease in Somaliland in return for diplomatic recognition.
Achievements
- President of Ethiopia (from 2024)
- foreign minister (2024–2024)
- Educated at Addis Ababa University and University of Lancaster
