Ethiopia has announced the closure of its embassy in Asmara and declared 10 Eritrean diplomats in Addis Ababa persona non grata. The move was made in response to what Ethiopia described as Eritrea's direct and indirect hostile actions. The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the diplomats had been involved in activities posing a direct threat to Ethiopia's national security and violating the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
The 10 diplomats have been ordered to leave Ethiopia within 48 hours. The ministry did not provide details of the specific activities attributed to the diplomats. However, they emphasized that the decision was taken to address Eritrea's acts of hostility and belligerence. Ethiopia's move is seen as a significant escalation in tensions between the two countries.
Despite the diplomatic measures, Ethiopia expressed its commitment to peaceful coexistence and regional stability. The ministry stated that Ethiopia valued the historical, cultural, and people-to-people ties between the two countries. They urged the Eritrean government to cease actions contrary to the principles governing relations between sovereign states.
Ethiopia's decision to close its embassy in Asmara and expel Eritrean diplomats is a rare display of assertiveness in the region. The move is likely to have significant implications for the Horn of Africa, where Ethiopia and Eritrea have long-standing tensions. The region has experienced numerous conflicts and diplomatic disputes over the years.
The Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized that Ethiopia remained committed to resolving disputes peacefully and working with countries in the Horn of Africa to promote lasting peace, security, and regional integration. The ministry's statement suggests that Ethiopia is seeking a peaceful resolution to the tensions with Eritrea.
The expulsion of Eritrean diplomats and the closure of the embassy in Asmara mark a significant deterioration in relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea. The two countries have a complex and often contentious history, with disputes over borders, trade, and security. The current tensions are likely to have far-reaching consequences for the region.
The international community is closely watching the developments between Ethiopia and Eritrea, as the Horn of Africa is a critical region for global security and trade. The Ethiopian government's decision to take a firm stance against Eritrea's perceived hostility may have implications for regional and international relations.
Key points
- Ethiopia closes Eritrean embassy in Asmara, expels 10 diplomats from Addis Ababa.
- The move cites Eritrea's hostile actions, including threats to Ethiopia's national security.
- Ethiopia emphasizes commitment to peaceful coexistence and regional stability despite escalating tensions.
