Sheikh Abdullah urges Ethiopian parties to return to dialogue

The UAE's Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has expressed concerns over the recent developments in Ethiopia.

His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan stressed the need to return to dialogue and implement the rule of law while expressing the UAE's solidarity with the brotherly Ethiopian people.

He also highlighted the link between security and stability in the Middle East, and the Horn of Africa.

Sheikh Abdullah indicated that the region is witnessing new opportunities that must be seized and built upon, including the peace process in Sudan and South Sudan.

Moreover, he stressed the need to mobilise international and regional efforts to ensure the stability of the region and the central role of Ethiopia in realising this vision by working with the African Union and other relevant institutions.

Sheikh Abdullah indicated that the UAE has made many contacts with partners in Africa and the wider international community to put an end to the conflict by peaceful means and avoid escalation.

He added that Ethiopia is the key to security and stability in the Horn of Africa and the wider region, underscoring the importance of preserving the institutions of the Ethiopian state and the unity of the federal system.

The UAE minister expressed his concern over continued human suffering in the region and the displacement of thousands of innocent people, especially children, women, and the elderly due to recent military clashes.

He affirmed the UAE's support for a political solution and constructive dialogue in order to bring peace to Ethiopia, noting that the UAE would provide US$5 million through the World Food Programme and international organisations to help refugees affected by the humanitarian crisis.