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International Mediation Only Solution To Eritrean-Ethiopian Conflict

Rights & Democracy condemns the hostilities between of Eritrea and Ethiopia, which have jeopardized the development of their nations. It calls on Eritrea and Ethiopia to put an immediate end to this conflict and to accept international mediation. co

Montreal, 07 June, 2000 ? Rights & Democracy condemns the hostilities between the governments of Eritrea and Ethiopia, which have jeopardized the development of their nations. It calls on Eritrea and Ethiopia to put an immediate end to this conflict and to accept international mediation.

The renewed fighting and the recent decision by Ethiopia to invade Eritrean territory even after the withdrawal of Eritrean troops from the contested border zone?the area which is at the origin of the conflict?must be vigorously condemned and the Ethiopian army must stop its bombing of civilian areas. The UN arms embargo is insufficient, given that both Eritrea and Ethiopia have had years to stockpile arms. Members of the United Nations, including Canada, must exert additional diplomatic pressure, particularly on the leaders of Ethiopia, for an immediate end to this conflict.

"The warring parties must cease all hostilities and accept international mediation, under the leadership of the present President of the Organisation of African States, President Abdel-Aziz Bouteflika of Algeria," said Warren Allmand, President of Rights & Democracy. "A negotiated and lasting solution must be found now, which will include a resolution to the border dispute and all other outstanding issues which followed the independence of Eritrea from Ethiopia in 1993".

The civilian populations of both Eritrea and Ethiopia have suffered harshly during the past two years. The war has resulted in the deaths of several thousands of civilians and almost half a million refugees and internally displaced persons. Ethiopian citizens of Eritrean origin have suffered arrests, deportations and ill treatment.

Warren Allmand also stressed the need for complete access to roads and port facilities so that humanitarian organizations could get through with the necessary relief to the more than 4 million inhabitants who suffer from draught and famine.

"The time for peace is now. The populations of Eritrea and Ethiopia, and of every other country in the Horn of Africa, must be allowed to live free of fear, and be able to enjoy the fruits of a true and durable development."