BY LEULSEGED WORKU
The peoples of Ethiopia and Sudan have century old historic, economic and cultural relations. This deep rooted historic, social and economic relation among the neighboring people is still strong and intact. However, this does not mean that the relations of the two people had never disrupted at all; and never face challenges. There were times that the political agendas of some anti-Ethiopian elements had been used as a means to distract the good relationship of the two peoples. There were repetitive actions incited aiming to ruin the relationship of the two countries. However, none of them ruin the relations of the two peoples; and caused them to be in hostile state. This clearly demonstrates the level of intimacy the two peoples have established.
Recently, following the dispute occurred at the Ethio-Sudan boarder, the peoples residing in the border areas held discussion to further strengthen their people to people relations. As part of this effort, intellects, elders and representatives of the border community of the two countries, religious leaders, held discussion at Metema Yohannes Town, Amhara Media Corporation reported.
Ethiopia and Sudan people have strong historical relations that are cemented by culture, language, marriage as well as trade and other activities. For this reason, the political agenda that may arise in various seasons has no power to tear up such a strong bond.
This strong tie that the peoples of the two countries have established for long has been attested by several challenges. However, the challenges were overcome by the commitment of the two brotherly peoples. The recent protest against the action of the Sudanese Government is one of those instances. It is a good indication that the people of Sudan are against all forms of conflict with their good neighbor- Ethiopia.
The people of Ethiopia and Sudan enjoy mutual benefits from trade, cultural exchange, and regional security. Their bond is beyond the political will of their governments. Using their historic relationship as a ground, representatives of the people in the border area have discussed on matters how they can resolve their differences sustainably, further maintain their peace and reinforce their trade relations.
As it was indicated representing the Ethiopian border area peoples, the leader of the delegate Gezat Birhane said that the relations between the peoples of the two countries have deep natural and cultural bond that cannot be eroded by regime change or any political situation. The strong historical relationship of the two countries has overcome several challenges.
However, since recent time, the Sudanese Government has been providing support for T-TPLF and the extremist Kemant militants that are working to destabilize Ethiopia. Following the discussion held between the governments of the two countries in Nairobi in the areas of regional integration and people to people relation, they have reached to an agreement. And we have to cease this opportunity for future peace, he said.
Appreciating the effort of the two governments, Sudan public Diplomacy Head Gedaref area elders delegate representative, Alfadun Hassan Ali, on his part said that the situation (conflict) that was observed between the two countries has no value for both countries other than damaging them.
It has a devastating impact on the people of the two countries. According to him, the border conflict that was observed between peoples of the two countries will erode the historical strong relations of the two countries. In this regard, besides strengthening people to people relations of the two countries, elders and representatives of the two people have a great interest to resolve the dispute in a sustainable way and work for the good of the two peace loving people. The tension in and around the border area is unacceptable by any means. The representatives of the two countries have a responsibility to work for the common good of their people.
“We must work irrespective of the political interest of the two countries. We are duty bound to influence the governments of the two countries to work for the good of their people and support the peaceful discussion between them. We have a firm belief that no single political agenda will harm the historic relationship of Ethiopia.”
He also added that the representatives of the two countries have a goal to further strengthen the trade and social people tie in the two border towns of Galabat and the Metema Yohannes. “In order to achieve that goal we have organized a committee that works focusing on people to people agenda. What is more, using all available means for peace, we will notify each and every instant and new development to our respective governments.”
He said that the Ethio-Sudan people-to people relation is stronger and much better than any other country. “We don’t even have such a strong people to people relationship with the newly independent South Sudan. There is no earthly power that can separate such relationships.”
The political commitment and the will of the two countries to avoid clashes on the border area is a good indication how the people of the two countries are keen for peaceful coexistence for their people. However, this agreement must be confirmed by legal agreements. It is well remembered that, in 2008, Ethiopia and Sudan under the leadership of President Omar al-Bashir and the late Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, had reached a relatively cordial land use agreement by which the two countries could cultivate the land until final demarcation was finalized.
It is recently witnessed that Ethiopia and Sudan have agreed to reach such an urgent and permanent solution on the border issue subsequent to discussion held between the two countries leadership to settle the border dispute. Apart from opening the border, the Sudanese Technical Committee of the Security and Defense Council has also decided to set up border monitoring and improve coordination between the two countries to stop the movement of armed elements across the border.
Ethiopia is pursuing a policy of promoting peaceful relations with its neighbors. Despite all instability in the Horn of Africa, the relation Ethiopia has with its neighbors is cordial and moving in the right direction. In this regard, the nation is working aggressively to deepen its diplomatic efforts with neighboring countries. This mutual interest is being expressed in the form of peace and security issues.
Despite the border clash the two countries (Ethiopia and Sudan) experienced lately, the people of Sudan and Ethiopia are still enjoying the fruits of peace and solidarity. The commitment of the two countries to help each other in times of difficulties and working aggressively to avoid clashes is an exemplary step towards sustainable peace in the region.
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 28 JULY 2022
