Washington DC, 3 May 2023 (TDI): Today, the United States (US) Department of State issued a statement commending the parties involved in the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement (COHA) signed between the Government of Ethiopia and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) on November 2, 2022.
The six-month-old peace process has brought a much-needed end to the two years of conflict in northern Ethiopia and has ushered in a new era of recovery and peace for the region.
The US praises the African Union’s (AU) campaign to “Silence the Guns” and the extraordinary efforts of the AU’s High-Level Panel, which played a crucial role in the success of the peace process.
The US participated as an observer in the process and recognizes the significant progress that has been made towards COHA implementation, including the restoration of essential services, the flow of humanitarian aid, and the TPLF’s turnover of heavy weapons.
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Additionally, the release of detainees and the initiation of a comprehensive and inclusive transitional justice process, along with the establishment of an interim regional administration in the Tigray Region, have contributed to the peace and stability of the region.
Apart from that, the US has urged all parties involved to continue to follow-through on their commitments and called for the deployment of additional monitors for the protection of civilians, and the effective disarmament, demobilization, and reintegration of combatants.
The complete withdrawal of Eritrean and non-federal forces from the Tigray Region is also critical for achieving sustainable peace, as well as a credible transitional justice process, which includes accountability for those responsible for human rights violations and abuses.
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The US recognizes that the success of the peace process in northern Ethiopia has created a positive opportunity for the Oromia Region.
So, the US welcomes the beginning of talks between the government of Ethiopia and members of the Oromo Liberation Army in Tanzania, announced by Prime Minister Abiy, and encourages all parties to negotiate in good faith towards a mutually acceptable resolution.
By doing this, the US has reaffirmed the importance of its partnership with Ethiopia and its commitment to work together on these and other issues of mutual interest. Therefore, the US stands ready to support Ethiopia as it continues on the path towards peace and stability.
