Ethiopian conflict: US welcomes TPLF's readiness to participate in AU-led talks
Washington, DC, US (PANA) - The United States has welcomed the statement of the Ethiopian regional government in Tigray indicating its readiness to participate in African Union (AU) talks and abide by a cessation of hostilities.
In a statement to the media Aboard Air Force One on Monday, White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre said it was high time for both sides to stop fighting and turn to dialogue to resolve their differences.
"The Ethiopian government has stated its willingness to go to talks anytime, anywhere, and should seize this moment to give peace a chance. Eritrea and others should stay out of the conflict," she said.
Ms. Jean-Pierre said the United States commends and supports the AU's diplomatic efforts to start talks as soon as possible.
She said the US President’s Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Mike Hammer, remains in the region and is "actively engaged" with the parties, the African Union, and international partners to advance this important effort to peace.
"The Ethiopian people have suffered too much and deserve a lasting peace. They should know that the United States stands with them and will continue to be the largest provider of humanitarian assistance in response to the conflict and severe drought," Ms Jean-Pierre said.
The regional government of Tigray, the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF), made the announcement of its commitment for a peaceful resolution of the conflict in the country as well as to participate in an AU-led peace process.on Sunday, Ethiopia's New Year 2015.
"The government of Tigray is prepared to participate in a robust peace process under the auspices of the African Union," Tigrayan authorities said in a statement on Sunday.
"Furthermore, we are ready to abide by an immediate and mutually agreed cessation of hostilities in order to create a conducive atmosphere," the statement added.
The United Nations Secretary-General and the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) have also welcomed the announcement in separate statements.
UN chief Antonio Guterres and AUC chairperson Moussa Faki Mahamat urged both sides in the fighting to urgently work towards an immediate ceasefire.
The latest round of fighting between the Ethiopian Government and the TPLF started late last month.
The conflict between the Addis Ababa government and TPLF started on 4 November 2020 when Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed ordered a military offensive after TPLF forces attacked a federal army base.
The fighting sparked massive displacement, widespread destruction of livelihoods and infrastructure, loss of employment and a huge humanitarian crisis.
Ethiopia declared a unilateral ceasefire in June 2021 but tension has remained high between the two sides.
-0- PANA MA 13Sept2022
