DPM, FM Demeke Secretary Anthony Blinken remark on positive dev’t of CoH

Addis Ababa, March 15, 2023 (FBC) – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Demeke Mekonnen met with US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken 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, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Meles Alem said the two sides remarked on the positive development of the Cessation of Hostilities and the AU-led Disarmament, Demobilization and Rehabilitation process, and the work of the Ethiopian Rehabilitation Commission.

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

Their discussion on economic issues highlighted 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, Ambassador Meles said.

Demeke also explained to the Secretary about 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.