ADDIS ABABA- Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador Taye Atsekeselassie called upon governments of Horn of African (HoA) countries to work together to resolve differences peacefully and reclaim lost opportunities for shared growth.
In press briefing he issued yesterday, the Foreign Minister stressed that Ethiopia highly values the shared history and traditions with its neighboring countries.
“People in this region are no longer held hostage by past hostilities. Through continued interactions, they have forged inseparable bonds of friendship and a sense of community. It is thus futile to try to create a wedge between communities across borders. We should resolve differences peacefully and reclaim lost opportunities for shared growth,” he restated .
Certain forces are exacerbating the political and diplomatic differences of Ethiopia and Somalia which he stated that collusion with these “forces hostile to peace in this region is also short-sighted and counterproductive”.
“It is consistent with this conviction that we accepted the facilitation of discussions with the Federal Republic of Somalia, firstly in Nairobi, and as a continuation of that effort, in Ankara. These efforts have made progress and are promising to yield results. These efforts must not be undermined by provocative statements,” he stated.
At the regional level, Ethiopia chose not to respond in the same manner when it was attacked in recent communications and press conferences by certain Somali Government officials as well as those hostile forces bent on exploiting every sense of opportunity to destabilize the region. Their hostile rhetoric and threats will not discourage Ethiopia from its commitment to peace in this region.
“It reinforces our conviction that we must redouble our efforts to stop those trying to undo hard-won gains against terrorism in this region.”
He also emphasized that the future and destiny of the HoA region are in the hands of the countries of the region and urged all governments continue working together bilaterally and through the IGAD framework.
Ethiopia’s foreign policy has always been centered on advancing its relations with its neighbors. The well-being and prosperity of the country are closely tied with the peace and development of its neighbours. As the largest country in the region, the government does not take lightly the responsibility of protecting the safety and ensuring the destiny of the country, and that of the region, according to the Foreign Minister.
“We take this responsibility seriously! We shall continue building, mending and enhancing relations with our neighbors,” he underlined.
BY YESUF ENDRIS
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 31 AUGUST 2024
