Tuesday, July 17, 2018
A July 9 meeting in Asmara between Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Eritrean President Isaias Afewerki, the first such meeting between any leaders of the two East African nations in nearly 20 years, saw the pair make a joint announcement that they would restore diplomatic ties.
Following the announcement, leaders around the world praised the move toward greater peace and stability in the region. The United States said it welcomed the pair’s commitment to peace and security, effectively ending 20 years of conflict.
A statement released by the US Department of State, in part, said: “The United States stands ready to support this process, and encourages all parties to continue working with transparency and confidence in the coming days. Peace between Ethiopia and Eritrea will further the cause of stability, security, and development in the Horn of Africa and Red Sea.”
Meanwhile from Germany, a Federal Foreign Office spokesperson said in a statement:
“The German Government would like to encourage both sides to continue on this path and thus to create new opportunities for their countries” adding, “The German Government will support both countries on their further path to détente and explore ways to foster the peace process.”