Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister met with Saudi Arabia’s Vice Foreign Minister, focusing on economic ties amid ongoing tensions with Eritrea. Discussions also included the Sudan conflict and regional stability. However, ambiguity surrounds whether military tensions were directly addressed.
Ethiopia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, engaged in discussions with Saudi Arabia’s Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, Waleed Abdulkarim El Khereiji, on Wednesday in a meeting emphasizing bilateral and regional collaborations. This diplomatic encounter, following recent discussions between Ethiopian and Israeli foreign ministers, is significant, particularly given the rising tensions between Eritrea and Ethiopia. Eritrea has accused Ethiopia of aggressive expansionism in the Assab region, which adds urgency to the talks.
The dynamics around the Eritrean conflict continues to be a focal point in Ethiopian politics, with some Tigrayan politicians expressing concerns over potential Saudi involvement in a military confrontation. However, the Ethiopian government maintains that the talks with the Saudi officials were focused on enhancing economic relations rather than military strategies. Discussions surrounding the conflict in Sudan also took place, with Ethiopia expressing a neutral stance and a desire for resolution.
Saudi Vice Minister El Khereiji’s visit included a meeting with Ethiopia’s State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Misganu Arega, where they addressed issues concerning human trafficking and enhancing economic collaboration in sectors such as agriculture, mining, tourism, and technology. The Saudi commitment to strengthening ties with Ethiopia reflects a broader regional interest despite the ongoing turmoil with Eritrea.
Nevertheless, there remains ambiguity regarding whether the escalating tensions between Eritrea and Ethiopia were a topic of the discussions, as both nations appear to be fortifying their diplomatic positions. Eritrea recently called upon the international community to intervene and pressure Ethiopia, claiming sovereignty violations, while Ethiopia retaliates by accusing Eritrea of fostering conflict through alliances with local groups. Political leaders from both nations are navigating a complex landscape fraught with accusations and heightened military readiness on both sides.
In summary, Ethiopia’s recent diplomatic engagement with Saudi Arabia signals an emphasis on economic relations amid regional tensions, particularly concerning Eritrea. While discussions encompassed collaborative efforts on issues like the Sudan conflict and human trafficking, the potential for military conflict remains a contentious topic. As both nations continue to navigate these complex political landscapes, the international community’s role will be crucial in mediating and reducing tensions in the Horn of Africa.
Original Source: borkena.com
