14 March 2024
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – In a joint statement released today, the Missions of Canada, the European Union (EU), France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States in Addis Ababa welcomed the initiation of political dialogue between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray Interim Regional Administration.
This dialogue is seen as a critical step towards resolving outstanding issues that are essential for the safe and voluntary return of internally displaced persons (IDPs). The statement comes after the first strategic reflection on the implementation of the Pretoria Agreement (CoHA), a ceasefire agreement aimed at ending the conflict in northern Ethiopia.
While acknowledging some progress, the G7 and EU member states emphasized the need for further action. They called for expediting the disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration (DDR) of ex-combatants, highlighting the need for additional resources to facilitate this process.
Additionally, the statement stressed the urgency of addressing the humanitarian needs of those affected by the conflict, including reconstruction efforts.
The G7 and EU further urged the Ethiopian government and the Tigray regional administration to maintain their commitment to the CoHA and work towards lasting peace. They also called for a similar commitment to dialogue in conflict-affected regions like Amhara and Oromia.
The statement concluded by encouraging the expansion and extension of the African Union’s Monitoring, Verification and Compliance Mission (AU-MVCM) to oversee the implementation of the CoHA. This move signifies the international community’s continued support for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Ethiopia.
