Strong people to people relations built on solid foundation is likely to pass formidable challenges and see the light of the day afterwards. The relation between Ethiopia and Sudan can be categorized under such strong and unbreakable ties. Many Ethiopians were living and working comfortably in various places of Sudan. They have been serving as pillars for the relations of the two countries. Many Sudanese have also invested in different places in Ethiopia. It is in the best interest of both people to maintain this time tested and long lasting relation between the two sisterly countries.
The government of Ethiopia also works towards ensuring continuity of the relations in spite of the ups and downs the people, especially those in the border are facing.
The incumbent has also done a lot to further boost the existing ties between Ethiopia and Sudan. For example the most remarkable contribution by Ethiopia is the effort made by the government of Dr. Abiy to mediate the rival factions and stabilize the country.
This was a big sacrifice made for the people of the Sudan. It is based on a principle to pay sacrifice for a friend in trouble. It is also considerate of the feeling of the people of Sudan towards Ethiopia and its people displayed through their compassion during the times of Adversity.
On the contrary the tendency of the current Sudanese administration is completely against this long established reality of the two countries as well as the provisions of international law.
The government of Ethiopia is still confident that there would be no strain on the strong people to people ties between the two countries. Rather their mutual understanding would help alleviate the prevailing troubles.
With this in mind Ethiopia always remains committed to address any problem through negotiation and all other peaceful means. Its wise action and patience is a good witness. Yet the efforts so far have not yielded fruit. Despite its readiness to address the problem peacefully, there is no progress or change on the side of the Sudanese administration. Rather the Sudanese government has embarked up on an act of aggression against innocent Ethiopians living in the areas that it occupied.
While the relationship between the two countries remains to be a bilateral issue principally, it is true that their relation lies within the sphere of a regional and international matter. While the positive development of the relations is useful for the region as well as the continent in general, any harmful consequence between the two countries is also going to affect the region. Hence the regional organization, Inter Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and relevant international community should also act responsibly in mediating the two countries.
What has transpired so far between the two countries is an unnecessary incident which should have been addressed years or months ago. But as the saying goes, better late than never. Relevant stakeholders still have time to nip the problem in the bud thanks to Ethiopia smart handling of the problem. From the experiences around the world, it is much easier to address such conflicts before they get complicated.
The Ethiopian Herald April 15/2021
