Sahle-Work Zewde, an experienced diplomat, is the first female head of state in Ethiopia's modern history. Women also now constitute half of the country's Cabinet ministers.
The move by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki is the latest sign of easing tensions between countries which were once bitter neighbors.
After two decades of deadly conflict, the neighboring countries are rapidly reconciling. Demand was huge for the historic commercial flight, which was marked with champagne and roses.
As Ethiopia and Eritrea declared peace, long-dead phone lines came alive. People spoke with relatives and strangers. "We will be family," an Eritrean told an Ethiopian who randomly dialed him.
As the Ethiopian prime minister walked off the plane in Eritrea, he smiled and gave a big hug to Eritrea's authoritarian ruler. It's a sign of a rapid thaw in the tensions between the two countries.
Shortly after Abiy Ahmed addressed a massive rally in the capital, Addis Ababa, a blast sent attendees running. Authorities say at least one person died in the attack and its aftermath.
The Ethiopian artist Aida Muluneh spends an hour and a half decorating her models for photos that celebrate her country's past and present. Her work is now on display at the Museum of Modern Art.
Critics worry the ban will leave more children on the streets. But supporters say Ethiopia can and should take care of its own. "Even if we are poor, it's better to be with our society," says one.