Addis Ababa, December 17, 2021(Walta) – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Ethiopia, Demeke Mekonnen had been in Juba today for a one-day visit to South Sudan.
He had a fruitful discussion with President Salva Kiir on bilateral issues of common concern.
The discussion between the two high-level officials reviewed the longstanding relationship between the two countries with commitments to further cement it with extended engagements.
President Salva Kirr reaffirmed to the Deputy prime Minister and Foreign Minister that South Sudan will always stand in defense of Ethiopia’s peace, stability, security, and territorial integrity.
He said South Sudan would never accept undue interferences in the domestic affairs of Ethiopia and expressed his firm belief in Ethiopia’s capacity to solve its own problems through its own initiative.
Demeke, on his part, had briefed the President on the rationale of launching the law enforcement operation and subsequent conflict that was imposed on the government by the TPLF.
Demeke’s briefing also included the situations in the northern part of the country and the humanitarian supply to affected people by the conflict.
He said the reality on the ground is changing with new battlefield gains by the Ethiopian joint forces.
He also spoke in detail about the planned all-inclusive dialogue with stakeholders to return peace to Ethiopia.
The Deputy Prime Minister returned home after his successful one-day visit to South Sudan.