DPM & FM Demeke discusses with US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken

Addis Ababa, March 15, 2023 (FBC) – Deputy Prime Minister & Foreign Minister, Demeke Mekonnen, met with U.S. Secretary of State, Antony J. Blinken, earlier today and discussed a wide range of matters spanning from the implementation of the cessation of hostilities agreement to Ethiopia’s economic situation and regional peace and security issues.

In debriefing the media, the Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Meles Alem, said the two sides remarked on the positive development of the Cessation of Hostilities (CoH) and the AU-led Disarmament, Demobilization, and Rehabilitation process, and the work of the Ethiopian Rehabilitation Commission.

In connection with that, the Spokesperson said that the two parties discussed the formation of the interim regional administration in the Tigray Region and the ongoing nationwide consultations on Transitional Justice Policy Options that will bring about accountability and redress for victims.

Their discussion on economic issues touched on the importance of supporting Ethiopia’s economic reform in the context of mitigating and adapting to climate change, and rehabilitating and reconstructing infrastructure in the Tigray, Afar, and Amhara regional states.

DPM & FM Demeke also briefed the Secretary regarding the Government of Ethiopia’s efforts to maintain the AU-led GERD talks, fight against terrorism in Somalia, put relations with Sudan on a positive trajectory, and provide support for peace in South Sudan.

The Secretary of State arrived in Addis Ababa yesterday. He will have a one-day official working visit in Ethiopia and expects to meet other high-level officials from the Government of Ethiopia and the AU.