Eritrean President Denies Allegations of ‘Axis Against Ethiopia’, Condemns Disinformation
Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki faced the media on Saturday evening to dispel rumors surrounding a recent trilateral meeting involving Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia, held in Asmara, Eritrea’s capital. Afwerki vehemently denied claims that the meeting was part of an alleged “axis” aimed at undermining Ethiopia, emphasizing the importance of regional stability and cooperation.
Addressing Disinformation and Regional Stability
During a national television interview, President Isaias condemned what he described as “disinformation campaigns” orchestrated by foreign entities and activists through various media channels. He warned that such narratives could exacerbate tensions in the region and reiterated that Eritrea’s main objective is to foster stability and collaboration across the Horn of Africa, the Nile Basin, and the Red Sea area.
Isaias highlighted the significance of the agreement between Eritrea, Egypt, and Somalia, emphasizing that it was not intended to create hostility towards any nation, including Ethiopia. He stressed that regional partnerships are essential for addressing mistrust and achieving positive outcomes, dismissing claims that Eritrea seeks to destabilize Ethiopia.
Critique of Ethiopia’s Constitution and Conflict Resolution
President Isaias criticized Ethiopia’s 1994 constitution, labeling it as a source of tension that hinders nation-building efforts. He argued that internal conflicts within Ethiopia must be resolved to facilitate the country’s contribution to regional stability, cooperation, and tolerance. Isaias traced the roots of the prolonged Ethiopian-Eritrean conflict to Ethiopia’s constitutional policies, suggesting that foreign interference exacerbated border clashes between the two nations.
Isaias attributed the outbreak of the Tigray conflict to the rejection of Ethiopia’s new administration by the TPLF, which allegedly launched numerous rocket strikes against Eritrea. Despite warnings from Eritrea, the attacks persisted, leading to renewed tensions in the Amhara region. The president reiterated his government’s commitment to peace and disavowed any involvement in violent conflicts.
In conclusion, President Isaias Afwerki’s address aimed to clarify misconceptions surrounding Eritrea’s regional engagements and underscore the country’s dedication to stability, cooperation, and peace in the Horn of Africa.