Addressing the 42nd Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs Minister of Ethiopia, Demeke Mekonnen said this year’s session has a special significance for Ethiopia for it comes at a time when the peace agreement between the federal government and the TPLF is seeing a progress.
Demeke underscored that the AU led peace process has demonstrated the true meaning of “African Solution to African Problems”
“The implementation of the peace agreement is on course. We are redoubling efforts to ensure full implementation of the agreement. We have continued expediting humanitarian aid to people in affected regions,” he said.
“We have taken measures to restore services interrupted by the conflict. We are also working with the African Union Commission to support the work of the Monitoring, Verification and Compliance Mechanism. This mechanism consists of a joint committee and team of African experts. The team is now witnessing major developments in the area of disarmament, demobilization and reintegration,” Demeke added.
Over the past two years, we are grateful to see that our faith in the African Union is vindicated. We draw a pride from the strong solidarity from our African sisters and brothers. He thanks all who supported the efforts of Ethiopia to resolving the conflict.
He extended gratitude to the former president of Nigeria Olusegun Obasanjo, former president of Kenya, Uhurru Kenyatta, and Commissioner of the AU Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, Bankole Adeoye, Commissioner of the AU Political Affairs, Peace and Security Commission and others who participated in the peace process. He also thanks government of Kenya and South Africa for hosting the signing events of the peace accord.
Ethiopia is thankful for the support it received from the African countries in multilateral platforms like the UN Security Council.
This shows that the legacy of Pan Africanism will be transferred to next generation. Ethiopia has been working with all parts in making the process a success.
By: Wondesen Aregahegn – FBC