Warring parties in Ethiopia agree on cessation of hostilities within 24 hours
Summary
After intense discussions with the parties in a meeting in Ethiopia’s capital, Addis Ababa, the two sides reached an agreement on a ceasefire within 24 hours.
On February 14, 2018, the two sides agreed to the cessation of hostilities within 24 hours.
The parties agreed to withdraw all soldiers and personnel from any positions they currently occupy.
The parties also called for a resumption of consultations on a permanent ceasefire.
A ceasefire agreement, signed by the two parties, was witnessed by Ethiopian President and Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister, Abiy Ahmed and Ethiopian Prime Minister, Abiy Rotimi Medan.
Abiy Ahmed made a historic announcement, saying that the parties had agreed to a cessation of hostilities and that he hoped peace would soon be restored.
Abiy said, “Today, we can say to the Ethiopian people that we have reached an agreement on the cessation of hostilities between Ethiopia and Ethiopians. We hope it will contribute to strengthening the peace and stability of the region, and we hope it will bring the hopes of all to the forefront once again.”
A short while later, Abiy Ahmed extended an invitation to H.E. Hailemariam Desalegn, the Prime Minister of Eritrea for talks at his residence and he invited him to Ethiopia.
Shortly after this, the two parties extended the truce offer to Eritrea.
When the news of the offer reached the Prime Minister of Eritrea, Abiy Ahmed, he said that he hoped Eritrea would accept it. At this time, Eritrea officials confirmed that they are ready to sign the agreement.
According to Reuters, Ethiopian official in Eritrea, Yemane Meselu said: “We agree to the end of hostilities, Eritrea will welcome the Ethiopian proposal. We do not want war again nor does Eritrea.”
The two sides also extended an invitation to their respective ambassadors in Ethiopia.
The two parties reached an agreement on the establishment of a committee to monitor the implementation of the
