Addis Ababa, March 23, 2022 (FBC) – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister H.E. Demeke Mekonnen received at his office on Tuesday U.S. Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa David Satterfield to discuss bilateral issues of mutual concern.
Speaking on the humanitarian support to the Tigray region, the Deputy Prime Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to allow unimpeded access to humanitarian operators.
He, however, stressed concerns over obstructions to the flow of humanitarian assistance due to the TPLF’s continued provocation of adjacent regions.
Discussing bilateral ties between Ethiopia and the U.S., the Deputy Prime Minister said HR6600 and S. 3199 could be not reflective of the longstanding and historical relations of the two countries.
He expressed confidence that the U.S. would discard the draft bills since they put the lives of ordinary Ethiopians in danger rather than promote peace and democracy in the country.
The Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister also briefed Satterfield about the encouraging peace initiatives that the government of Ethiopia has taken to ensure lasting peace and stability in the country.
In connection with this, he mentioned the release of renowned political figures from detention, the lifting of the State of Emergency before its due time, and the positive steps reached so far in establishing a national dialogue Commission and electing its Commissioners.
Special Envoy David Satterfield, on his part, said the United States has appreciated and acknowledged the positive steps taken by the Ethiopian government to pacify and stabilize the country.
According to the U.S. Department of State, the Special Envoy will also meet African Union and United Nations officials and representatives of humanitarian organizations.