France Keen to Support Rehabilitation Efforts, National Dialogue in Ethiopia
ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Demeke Mekonnen on Tuesday held discussion with special envoy of France to the Horn of Africa, Frederic Clavier, on various issues.
The two sides discussed the situation in Ethiopia, regional and bilateral issues, said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in a statement after a meeting held in Addis Ababa.
The Deputy PM underlined Ethiopia’s keen interest to further cement the longstanding relationship between the two countries while describing France’s stance regarding the recent situations in Ethiopia as “balanced and encouraging”, according to MoFA.
Demeke also briefed the special envoy about encouraging peace efforts that the government of Ethiopia has been undertaking lately.
These efforts, he mentioned the establishment of the National Dialogue Commission, aiming to address critical national issues and create understanding among people.
The release of high political figures from prison would accelerate the dialogue, making it more inclusive, he said.
The Deputy PM’s briefing has also addressed the recent security situations in Ethiopia.
Although the government’s decision to withhold the advance of its troops from entering Tigray was said to augment peace efforts, the TPLF’s renewed attacks on adjacent regions are threatening to curb expectations, the minister said.
France’s special envoy Clavier thanked Demeke for the briefing and expressed his country’s interest to strengthen relationships with Ethiopia, a linchpin state in the region, reads MoFA’s statement.
Ambassador Clavier further highlighted his country’s commitment to supporting rehabilitation efforts and the proposed all-inclusive dialogue, according to MoFA.
