Addis Ababa, 16 July 2018: The Chairperson of the Commission of the African Union, Moussa Faki Mahamat, commends the Eritrean and Ethiopian leaders for their steadfast efforts to enhance reconciliation, trust and cooperation between their two countries. The visit of President Isaias Afwerki to Ethiopia, from 14 to 16 July 2018, following that of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to Eritrea, a week ago, marks a new and important milestone, and is a further testimony to their commitment.

Coming at a time of renewed efforts to accelerate integration and silence the guns on the continent, the ongoing process between Ethiopia and Eritrea is a major and historic contribution to the stabilization and sustainable development of the Horn of Africa region. It will also go a long way in furthering continental priorities, as encapsulated in Agenda 2063 and other relevant African Union policies.

The Chairperson applauds, once again, the leadership and courage of President Isaias Afwerki and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed. He looks forward to similar bold initiatives in other conflict and crisis situations on the continent.