Skip to main content

Ethiopia and Eritrea enter peace talks after decades-long border dispute

PEACE talks are underway between Ethiopia and Eritrea days after the countries agreed to end a decades-long border dispute.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed was welcomed to the Eritrean capital Asmara today by veteran President Isaias Afwerki for the first meeting between the leaders of the warring countries for two decades.

The historic summit comes after Mr Abiy, who was elected prime minister in April, accepted a 2002 border commission ruling which awarded disputed territory to Eritrea.

Tens of thousands were killed in fighting over the disputed territory after Eritrea declared independence from Ethiopia in 1993.

Mr Abiy has committed to working towards the withdrawal of Ethiopian troops from the contested border areas.

Eritrea’s Information Minister Yemane Gebrmeskel said before Mr Abiy’s visit: “This historic official visit, and the summit that will take place, herald a new era of peace and co-operation.”

An Ethiopian government spokesman said: “Our two nations share a history and bond like no other. We can now overcome two decades of mistrust and move in a new direction.”

OWNED BY OUR READERS

We're a reader-owned co-operative, which means you can become part of the paper too by buying shares in the People’s Press Printing Society.

 

 

Become a supporter

Fighting fund

You've Raised:£ 13,288
We need:£ 4,712
3 Days remaining
Donate today