Addis Ababa: Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister, Ambassador Taye Atske-Selassie emphasized that the people of the Horn of Africa, united by strong friendships and community ties, are no longer bound by past hostilities.
The Minister briefed local and international media outlets today on Ethiopia’s foreign relations and current regional developments, with a particular focus on the Horn of Africa.
In his briefing ambassador Taye advocated peaceful resolution of differences to reclaim lost opportunities for shared growth, warning against attempts to drive a wedge between communities across borders.
Ethiopia values the shared history and traditions with neighboring communities, noting that past hostilities should no longer hinder cooperation.
The ambassador underscored that efforts to create divisions between communities are futile and emphasized the importance of resolving differences peacefully to reclaim opportunities for shared growth.
He highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing concerns about the situation in Somalia,
noting the sacrifices made by Ethiopian troops in the pursuit of peace and the desire to avoid chaos spilling over the border.
Since 2005, the Ethiopian troops have made significant sacrifices to support the stability of Somalia, with many individuals losing their lives in the process.
It is inappropriate to undermine the sacrifices made by this troops, FM Taye underlined stressing the need for Ethiopia and Somalia to strengthen their joint efforts to combat terrorism and tackle al-Shabaab.
He further emphasized Somalia’s right to establish diplomatic relations with other countries, provided that these relations do not pose a threat to neighboring nations.
Regarding the facilitated talks between Ethiopia and Somalia, in Ankara, Ambassador Taye acknowledged the progress made but cautioned against letting provocative comments and actions from hostile entities undermine these efforts.
He criticized collaboration with such forces as short-sighted and counterproductive, while reiterating Ethiopia’s readines
s to resolve disputes with Somalia through peaceful means.
‘These efforts have made progress and are promising to yield results. These efforts must not be undermined by provocative statements. Collusion with forces hostile to peace in this region is also short-sighted and counterproductive,’ he pointed out.
The ambassador also addressed the situation in Sudan, reiterating Ethiopia’s support for the Sudanese people in their quest for peace.
Commending those working to restore stability in Sudan and emphasized the importance of consolidating progress in various initiatives, Taye stressed that lasting peace must be driven by the Sudanese themselves.
The ambassador also affirmed Ethiopia’s support for South Sudan in implementing the revitalized peace agreement.
He also highlighted Ethiopia’s commitment to maintaining strong, respectful relationships with countries across Africa and the world.
Source: Ethiopian News Agency