MFA State Minister discusses with UN humanitarian agencies in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, September 1, 2023 (FBC) – Ambassador Mesganu Arga, Minister of State for Political and Economic Diplomacy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, earlier today conferred representatives of the various UN humanitarian agencies in Ethiopia.

At the outset, State Minister Ambassador Mesganu briefed the representatives on latest developments in the country and the current humanitarian situation in Amhara National Regional State. He singularly stressed the commitment of the Ethiopian Government to improve the overall humanitarian situation and to expedite together with aid agencies the delivery of aid including food.

As for the current situation in Amhara regional state, the State Minister noted that the region is returning to normalcy. He also stated that a new regional administration has been established and basic services are being restored in most places.

Ambassador Mesganu also urged the humanitarian agencies to fast-track the immediate and full resumption of food in those areas where there are several vulnerable people in need of urgent humanitarian provisions.

The country representatives, while commending the efforts of the Government of Ethiopia, highlighted the importance of resuming food aid to those who need it most to prevent further exacerbation of the deteriorating humanitarian situation.

Following the discussion, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a joint statement between the Ethiopian government and UN Country Team. The statement revealed that both sides agreed that full and immediate resumption of food aid remains a priority for the most vulnerable groups across Ethiopia to whom humanitarian assistance is a lifeline as affected communities cannot afford to wait. They further agreed that humanitarian partners continue to provide other lifesaving activities, including nutritional supplements, school feeding programs, water, and agricultural support services.