Horn of Africa Climate & Water Security: Norway’s climate envoy says Ethiopia’s “massive” forest gains over five years are vital for water systems, soil protection and regional food security, with direct implications for Somalia, northern Kenya and Djibouti. Ethiopia–China Trade: Ethiopia’s trade minister highlights fast-growing EXIM ties with China, pointing to zero-tariff access and the Addis Ababa–Djibouti railway as proof of deeper economic integration. Red Sea Shipping & Djibouti’s Role: A Saudi-led Multinational Maritime Defence Coalition is taking shape to secure Bab el-Mandeb and the Gulf of Aden, with Djibouti among founding states—while DCOC members also agree to a combined task force to coordinate anti-piracy operations and intelligence sharing. Regional Trade Facilitation: Kenya hosts a validation workshop for the Horn of Africa Initiative Trade Facilitation Roadmap 2026–2031, aligning reforms across Djibouti, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia and South Sudan to cut border frictions. Mining & Industry Signals for Africa: Saudi Aramco and Maaden plan a minerals exploration joint venture targeting copper and other critical inputs, potentially reshaping Gulf demand for African raw materials. Agribusiness & Logistics Pressure: Ethiopia’s coffee and flower exporters face market opportunities and rising transport costs, with freight and export charges squeezing margins even as new buyers include Djibouti.