Addis Ababa, June 6, 2022 (FBC) – Ethiopia’s Ambassador Benelux countries and EU institutions, Hirut Zemene met with representatives of Ethiopian Diaspora residing in Belgium and exchanged views on recent developments in Ethiopia.
The Ambassador commended the Diaspora for their active participation on various calls made to support the cause of their country and particularly to extend financial, material and moral support to compatriots affected by the conflict in the northern part of the country.
Ambassador Hirut elaborated that recently positive developments are being witnessed due to the measures taken by the Government to stop hostility and create conducive environment for uninterrupted supply of humanitarian aid in the Northern part of the country.
Reiterating the magnitude of the destruction and displacement ensued and the enormous resources gap for reconstruction and resettlement, Ambassador Hirut further emphasized the need for a continued support from the Diaspora Community.
Members of the Diaspora, on their part, expressed gratitude to the Embassy for organizing the discussion and called on for a strengthened information exchange on the current situation in Ethiopia.
They also enquired additional information on the status of a resource mobilization process which was started by Brussels Diaspora Community earlier this year for the purpose of commissioning a reconstruction project in conflict affected areas.
Regarding the GERD, the participants emphasised the significance of the project in the development of the country and expressed their readiness to play their role for the completion of the Project.
Issues raised by the community on matters of peace and security, economic and social cohesion of the nation were addressed by Ambassador Hirut Zemene, Deputy Head of the Mission, Ambassador Shamebo Fitamo and Head of Diaspora Affairs, Berihun Degu.
At the end, the Participants expressed commitment to continue fostering unity while rededicating to uphold the cause of Ethiopia in light of the internal and external challenges posed on the country