Diplomacy

Rubio Backs Ethiopia-Eritrea 'De-escalation' in Call With Ethiopian Premier

AI SUMMARY

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed discussed regional tensions and bilateral cooperation during a phone call.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a phone call with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali.
Rubio expressed support for de-escalation by all sides amid tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea.
The State Department stated that the 2018 Ethiopia-Eritrea peace framework provides the only sustainable solution to tensions.
Rubio stressed that Horn of Africa countries must respect neighbors' sovereignty and territorial integrity while avoiding cross-border incursions.
Abiy described the call as very fruitful and welcomed continued US support for Ethiopia.
Relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea have deteriorated since they fought together in the 2020-2022 Tigray war.
Tensions have intensified due to Ethiopia's pursuit of access to the Red Sea and the port of Assab.