DPM & FM Demeke confers with President of Burundi

Addis Ababa, April 26, 2023 (FBC) – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Demeke Mekonnen met and discussed with President of Burundi, Everiste Ndyisshimye on a host of bilateral and regional issues of common interest.

Demeke told the president that the Gov’t of Ethiopia is committed to solidifying stability and consolidating peace and security in the country following the peace deal reached in Pretoria.

He also called for regular consultations among the Nile Basin riparian countries on the use of the water.

Demeke said Ethiopia remains steadfast in helping the Sudanese people chart the future of their country.

President Everiste, for his part, said the multifaceted diplomatic relationship is historic and needs to be further revamped.

He also said peace in Ethiopia is important for peace in Africa, lauded the effort of Ethiopia to entrench peace, and called on other African countries to draw lessons from Ethiopia’s latest experience.

Burundi supports the tripartite negotiations under the auspices of the AU to address the issue of GERD, he noted.

He also commended the importance of dialogue among the Nile Basin countries to unlock outstanding issues.

He said Ethiopia has the right to develop and change the lives of its people without causing significant harm to other countries.

DPM & FM Demeke also conveyed the message of Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed to the President.

He arrived in Bujumbura yesterday continuing his trip to four Afrcan countries.

Upon arrival in Bujumbura, Demeke was warmly received by senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Burundi.

He visited Tanzania and Comoros earlier, held bilateral discussions with the leaders of the two sisterly African countries to foster stronger ties, and signed MoU for bilateral cooperation with the latter.