Deputy PM says Ethiopia considers IOM as key humanitarian, development partner

Addis Ababa, April 16, 2021 (FBC) – Demeke Mekonnen, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Ethiopia received at his office today Maureen Achieng, IOM Chief of Mission to Ethiopia and Representative to AU and UNECA.

In their discussion, the two sides covered Ethiopia’s measures in curbing illegal migration and experiences in addressing the needs of repatriated citizens, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

At the onset, Demeke commended the IOM for its strong partnership with Ethiopia on the issue of migration, particularly its commitment to help Ethiopian citizens stranded in Africa and the Middle East due to COVID-19.

The Deputy Prime Minister also briefed Achieng the measures that the Ethiopian government has been taking in tackling the root causes of migration in the country.

He said the federal government is closely working with regional states to create awareness on the perils of illegal migration and cooperate with pertinent bodies in bringing human traffickers into account.

Given the rising cases of the global pandemic, cooperation among relevant institutions and stakeholders, like the IOM, to uphold the rights and needs of migrants is crucial, he said.

He finally pointed out that Ethiopia considers the IOM as its key humanitarian and development partner and reaffirmed the country’s strong desire to further enhance cooperation with the organization.

Achieng on her part said IOM is committed to continue to working closely with the Ethiopian government and the relevant authorities in addressing the needs of Ethiopian migrants, particularly in the context of the challenges posed by COVID-19.