Eritreans

Amanuel Biedemariam

There are not enough words to describe what transpired on September 25, 2011 in New York City before, during and after the gathering with His Excellency President Isaias Afwerki.

The festive-charged environment was indescribable and the event was a smashing success. The collection of Eritreans gathered covered the gamete. They came in droves from Florida after driving eighteen hours. Minnesota drove over 21 hours. Chicago 14. Grand Rapids Michigan drove over ten hours. From Edmonton Canada people drove for two days and Toronto drove for over ten hours. People drove from everywhere. Those that flew in from the West Coast and Europe came to Washington DC and boarded onto buses to New York with those that gathered from everywhere.

It will be disingenuous to discount logistical problems people encountered on the way to New York but once they were loaded, and ready everyone was happy enjoying the ride with patriotic music playing, dancing and laughing. We started boarding about 3am and arrived in New York about 9 am, which is prompt for a trip from DC to New York. When we arrived, we were greeted by thick lines of crowd that covered blocks and blocks in a major city creating a traffic nightmare for the city. It was serene to be received by crowds of Eritreans adorned with colorful Eritrean flags and dressed in traditional outfits that beautified the glorious city of New York. They accorded New York grace and dignity unmatched by any. They were civil and smart about the meaning and magnitude of the event. The weather was calm and cloudy as we arrived.

We hurried to get out of the busses to join the crowd. The people I came with all joined the long lines and I found my station in the media section. From that point on, I was oblivious to what was taking place outside. Our cell phones and computers were-not allowed in for security reasons so we did not have a way to communicate with those that formed lines to get in. My focus was inside and the assigned job.

The event had so many moving parts that were readily visible. The stage was fitting and graceful. The stage setters did a good job setting a presidential setting worthy of the moment. The mood was festive. The security was tight making it difficult to move once you are inside because movements were restricted.

When the president arrived, the hall was raucous and after a brief exchange of greetings, the President along with his delegates got seated on the front raw with the audience as the stage leaders announced the details of the program. They started the program with a moment of silence to remember our Martyrs graced by a beautiful sax by Tesfamariam. Soon thereafter, the EriAm Sisters sung our national anthem adding a spice to a memorable event. After that, the president and the delegates were lead to the stage amidst cheers of welcome that emanated from deep feelings of happiness and expression of love of someone deeply missed and loved.

President Isaias’ presence was grand. He occupied the seat with such a grace and comfort. It was incredible moment for Eritreans to witness their beloved hero seated in front of them. The President was beaming with a glow of happiness that filled the hall. There are thousands of pictures that showed the grandiosity and beauty of the moment and the presence. However, there are no pictures that can describe the feelings and the happy expressions in the hall. I was seated close enough where I can see the action closer than many. However, the whole event appeared like a dream and passed way quicker especially relative to the time that passed to prepare and travel to the event.

This event was by far the most significant event Eritreans held even more than the February 22 demonstration of 2010 thus far. The messages Eritreans passed were- embedded on every step. The messages were all loud and clear for all to see and bare witness to. It was saying loudly that Eritrea is in the house in New York City hitting New York like a lightning strike. The event showed how patient and disciplined Eritreans are. It showed the resilience of Eritreans. It showed that Eritreans speak with one voice, the same tone everywhere, and all the time.

When I first approached the crowd; as I was greeting people and finding my way, I bumped into a Caucasian approximately six feet two in height. I said excuse me and I realized the man had communication equipments in his hand. Not sure what he was doing I asked him what his intentions were and he replied he is a reporter from Expressen. Expressen…? I asked. He said it is a Swedish Newspaper. I asked what he was doing and he replied I came to film this event. And I asked him what his impression was? He said, I am surprised…I thought I was going to see more on this side not the other. He was saying it in a surprised and, disappointed tone. Evidently, he came with a predetermined idea to film President Isaias embarrassed by thousands of his enemies. Instead, he learned the truth about Eritrea and learned first hand that Eritreans are one with the President.

That is one message that reverberated sending shockwaves everywhere our enemies are. That is the message Eritreans wanted to send loud and clear to the world, the State Department and, the stooge-agents of the criminal junta in Ethiopia that were parading as Eritreans. It is a message of solidarity. It is an answer to those who wanted to weaken Eritrea systematically by targeting specific strengths. They delivered the message in New York City where Ambassador Rice can see clearly that President Isaias Afwerki and Yemane Ghebreab are the people. There is no distinction and room to extricate any Eritrean from another for whatever reason. Eritreans are one with one-voice and, that is the message those who traveled millions of miles-collectively wanted to send and sent it loudly.

There was not a whole lot of new information that His Excellency divulged. One of the first things that he said was that; ten years may have elapsed since I last saw you but you were never far away from me. That is expression of affection. And the feeling was mutual. Because nearly every question that people asked was accompanied by expressions of support and praises for his bravery. However, there were a lot of memorable statements that he made.

He referred to those who went to Addis as nefseher meaning they are none but dead souls walking. He acknowledged that there is exploration for oil. He said that there is not much any one can do to us if we are united be it one or four powers. He said that all the lies the Weyane clique spewed over the years are exposed and that the moment is opportune for us to reengage at the UN. However, he said that the highlight of his trip was his meeting with his people.

The audience asked many penetrating questions and the answers were satisfying. One young woman said that all the pertinent issues in Eritrea are addressed adequately and asked if the President considered human rights. He answered by saying that he fought for human rights for over forty years. The primary focus in Eritrea is and remains to ensure that the basic needs of Eritreans are met. That is the number one focus. He emphasized that Eritrea does not tolerate human right abuse at the government level and we have mechanisms in place to prevent abuse by the private sector as well.

He also said that a great deal of effort is exerted and, steps are in place to get the Diaspora involved in development efforts of the nation. Eritrea is shifting into a new gear in regards to development effort and if we are going to succeed in achieving the outlined objectives for 2012-2013, we need to make sure the concerns of Diaspora Eritreans are addressed. Regarding the border issues, he said, it would be demarcated in due course. Moreover, he stressed that we need to focus on what we are doing.

It was incredible to witness the harmony, affection and support the public showed President Isaias. The people did not come there to find out any thing new. They did not travel to demand anything from the President. They just showed up to show support.

After the President left the Manhattan Center, I briefly spoke to Dr. Berhe Habtegiorgis and asked him what his observations revealed. His reply captured the moment precisely. I still remember his focus, enthusiasm and the exuberant tinkle in his eyes as he said, “The world can not understand or believe what just transpired because it is in complete contradiction to what is taking place all around the globe!”

I was dead tired barely able to open my eyes before the President arrived but as as soon as he arrived, I was wide-awake and able to communicate on Facebook the entire event. When I left the building, I was excited to reconnect with my wife and friends that traveled with me for the event and eager to talk about what transpired and to discuss issues. And as soon as I came out and asked, did you have fun…? I saw this dazed gaze of disappointment filled with teary-eyes and heard; we didn’t get in. I melted. “You didn’t see the President”; I shouted! “No. We did not see him. We didn’t even see him when he left because we were expecting him to come on that side and he came out on the back”. Very few people saw him. Who else did not get in? I found out nearly all the people that came with me did not get in along with over 2000 people. President Isaias expressed his disappointment by saying “I thought the City of New York was a big city.”

We were all tired beyond expression; hungry and sleepy but captured by the moment and surprised by the fact that thousands could not get in. We knew there were people that were not able to get in but we did not know the size. However, as I spoke with those that did not get in, my feelings started to change dramatically.

The sadness that I felt turned into pride. I begun to understand the resolve and satisfaction that these people felt. My friend Haile said, “Don’t get me wrong, I would have loved to have been inside and enjoy the moment, but the purpose of my journey was to give support to my President and show solidarity and I have accomplished that regardless where I was and, I am satisfied.” Every story that I heard was more uplifting than the other. A father with his four grown up kids came from California paying thousands and said that he was proud to have been there even if he was not able to get in. A group from Grand Rapids Michigan is very popular because they kept the mood very uplifted by singing and saying “Masse” a form of rap entertaining the crowd. A family that came from Edmonton Canada after driving two days, a family that drove from Florida and unable to get in expressed the same feeling of satisfaction. Those that did not get in were there without rest, food and water for over six hours. They stood faithfully with discipline wowing NYPD in fact comforting the police in some instances.

The organizers were faced with logistical nightmares considering the short notice, the security considerations, the uncertainties and the distance they had to deal with. One has to think of the list of chores and details that they needed to sift through. The coordinating efforts are nightmarish to think about. But it came through beautifully and there were many reasons why it was a success.

Firstly, it is because Eritreans are very organized. Eritreans can mobilize faster and in greater numbers for their nation any time and anywhere. That is due to years of experience and organizational structures that were formed during days of the struggle for liberation. In February of 2010 Eritreans successfully organized large demonstrations to oppose the illegal sanction levied by the US against Eritrea. And ironically that major event paved the way for this presidential gathering that brought people from everywhere.

Secondly, it is because Eritrea takes a center stage in the life of every Eritrean in ways I have never seen anywhere. In fact it is mind boggling considering the fact that Eritreans sing, dance, and laugh, cry, wed and talk Eritrea every single second. Eritreans think and talk Eritrea. Eritreans live for Eritrea. Eritreans are aware and educated about their country. They are cognizant of all the threats, the challenges and opportunities. And they know how to fight and make use of the opportunities presented to them. This is one occasion that Eritreans seized like there is no tomorrow.

Conclusion

There are moments that change lives and take place once in a while. This occasion was one of those moments. There were many heads of states that gathered in New York for the same UN conference President Isaias attended. And I am certain none were received with the passion and enthusiasm. No one was accorded the kind of welcome President Isaias received.

None of the people that came to see the President came to demand or complain; they came to support and show him solidarity. It has been a while now since there has been a concerted effort made to demonize President Isaias and give inaccurate picture of what Eritrea and Eritreans are. There have been many hysterical noises made by handful opportunists. It was exposed on Sunday 25 September that they truly are the walking dead (nefseher) as the President called them.

Eritreans came with a purpose united in a vision in a surreal environment making indescribable spiritual connection with each other and their president. He embraced the moment and gracefully delivered unscripted speech from the heart in a presidential setting confidently. The journey was tough and long but joyous and historic. The sacrifices made were all worth it because, in the process and in the moment, we affirmed to each other that we are all Eritreans in a mission to express that we are one “Eritrean in New York” in support of our nation and President!

Indeed “Hade hzbi, Hade libi”!

Awetnayu@hotmail.com

Amanuel Biedemariam

If we look back at the recent History of Africa and particularly World War II, there has never been a government or a leader that deliberately instigated enmity with countries and people solely as a ploy to remain in power and gain prominence like the conman Meles Zenawi of Ethiopia. He has committed every act of crime, lied on every conceivable matter of importance and sold everything he can to the detriment and at the expense of the future of the nation and people in the region. He manipulated every issue and human cause and, instigated catastrophic military adventures in the region. He has sold everything, every political affiliate, organization and Tigray. In short he has sold everything including his soul if he had any. But all that is coming to a head now, for it must, since all adventures must end at some point. That point seems to be here and now!

The Eritrean Center for Strategic Studies (ECSS) conducted an interview with H.E Isaias Afewerki, and asked: “Your Excellency, there are some parties which contend that Ethiopia‘s future is in danger. Which way is Ethiopia going?”

President Isaias replied: “I do not want to make speculations as to which way Ethiopia is going. I can say that Ethiopia is going in the direction charted for it by the Woyane group administering Ethiopia. This group stood before, and still stands now, to gain nothing at all from Ethiopian unity. An examination of this group’s program which is holding the reigns of power in Ethiopia reveals that its objective since the 1975’s was to establish and independent sovereign state in Tigrai. We conducted relentless struggle to change this viewpoint and introduce them into a single Ethiopia program. But this viewpoint has as yet not disappeared. This regime is still in the process of creating conducive environment to disintegrate Ethiopia. It does not have Ethiopian national feelings. For instance, if we examine the Ethiopian constitution, especially Article 39 thereof, we observe that it permits right of self-determination up to secession. There is no constitution in the world during this epoch with this kind of provision.”

The template for the disintegration of Ethiopia was set in motion from-before the regime came to power. However, events did not play-out exactly as they were planned out. In fact, it turned out the opposite of what they calculated rendering all their projects, proclamations, agendas and predictions some miserable failures. Under normal circumstances, the clique would have collapsed for it remains rejected by the Ethiopian people. However, the illegitimate clique had become to be a staunch ally of the US propped and financed to further their agenda at the expense of the Ethiopian people and the region. If that western support stops, the clique will fall instantly. Otherwise, Meles Zenawi is probably one of the dumbest, incompetent and incapable tyrants to have governed any where. Here is why:

He Hurt the People of Tigray, His Own

In large part, the reason why Meles and his clique are in power today is due to their involvement with the causes that the people of Tigray fought for and the leadership role they assumed. That propelled to power because Ethiopia needed to fill a leadership vacuum created due to the ouster of The Derg. The clique did not have a mandate but, at that time, Ethiopians understood and realized the sufferings the people of Tigray endured for decades and tacitly acquiesced to some advantage for Tigray in order to bring it to a comparable level with the rest of the nation. Overtime, as the clique controlled the nation, they funneled more resources into Tigray. And regardless of the effectiveness or the size, a perception exist that Tigray was accorded a disparate advantage over the rest of Ethiopia. However, whether a sustainable foundation is established in Tigray is debatable. In addition, while power is a source of pride for some Tigrayans, it may have raised eyebrows in the rest of the nation. That is undeniable fact.

While the views about how the people of Tigray may have benefited are debatable; the critical question is how do the people of Tigray feel about their role at this critical juncture in the History of Ethiopia? Clearly, the people of Tigray were victorious after the fall of Derg. After years of hardships, it was high time to bring a just change in Tigray. The question is, at that very moment of victory, how did they envision the future of Tigray say, fifty years from that moment? How do Tigrayans feel about article 39 now? As president Isaias explained; if the group’s initial inclination was for Greater Tigray, which means it was the aspiration of some Tigrayans. Thence, for those that aspired to see that dream and are in leadership positions with that feeling; how committed are they for the security of the people of Ethiopia? How nationalists are they? The answer is it matters not anymore. Meles Zenawi killed any and all Tigrayan nationalist dreams and aspirations inadvertently. But worse, in the process, while killing Tigrayan nationalism, he inspired other ethnic group’s nationalism to a much higher level. Here is why:

In a recent article by Jawar Mohammed entitled “Meles Zenawi and OPDO Relations Enter A New Phase” outlined, “Dealing with the Unintended Consequences of an Appeasement Strategy.” In his analysis, Mr. Jawar explained how Meles initially manipulated and controlled the Oromo aspirations by using a “Client list system” and how the 2005 election changed that. Quote:

“For the previous 15 years, antagonizing and alienating the Oromo elite was seen as a key strategy to keep OPDO weak and subordinate. However, in order to survive the sudden surge of the Amhara threat, Meles had no choice but to try to make peace with the Oromo constituency. That is where Abadula Gemeda came in with a proven loyalty particularly during the 2001 TPLF internal crisis.”

Mr. Jawar states that, Mr. Gemeda was chosen for the post because of his enmity to the OLF. And as a result of the brief autonomy he acquired he successfully managed to bring on-board the opinion makers and possible opponents of the clique in line. Furthermore, he challenged them to bring changes and provided the incentives required. This turned out to be extremely successful-venture due the better governance that was attributable to the infusion of competent personnel as well as for Mr. Gemeda, Oromia-regional government and the people he recruited. As a result Mr. Gemeda’s popularity “skyrocketed” and became a threat and subsequently, a target of the ruling clique.

The strategy of Meles backfired and as a result, he is faced with lose-lose situation to quell Oromo nationalism. In other words, Meles dangled meat to a lion and is trying to take it away while the lion is roaring. The people of Oromo were given an opportunity for a taste of real autonomy and if that is taken away there is a good chance that the OLF can take advantage. Conversely, if the status quo is allowed to continue it threatens the regime.

This is contradictory to the situation in Tigray where most believe is run as an autonomous region yet, could not publicly assert that autonomy because it will have negative consequence both for the people of Tigray and Meles Zenawi. It is a conundrum of the highest form for Tigrayans whether they believe in Greater Tigray or a united Ethiopia. It is also a question that could only be addressed by the people of Tigray. This is also an issue that requires leadership and Meles could not openly address it since he is the leader of Ethiopia. Moreover, the leaders that came to power with Meles are compromised beyond reproach.

Article 39 and its Hypocrisy

There are many armed movements in Ethiopia today. There is a movement in Oromia, Gambella, Afar, Ogaden and in Tigray with TPDM amongst others. All these movements are empowered by the barrel of a gun. The article accords all ethnic nationalities legal rights to self determination up to secession in a nation that they divided along ethnic regions. Ironically, all the ethnic regions have their representative armed-movements. The illegitimate regime may have its own reasons to put article 39 on the constitution but in doing so it created some fault lines.

President Isaias stated, “This regime is still in the process of creating conducive environment to disintegrate Ethiopia.” The key word being “conducive”, is there such an environment to facilitate that end? Hardly! For one thing, the people of Tigray will not have a uniform attitude, which renders it premature. Secondly, if the people of Tigray unilaterally decide to exercise that option (which they could do since they control the process – (the parliament, the resources and the security apparatus), then they would carry a bulls eye for target by all. Thirdly, they have not established, as of yet, a conducive environment to enable them to be independent. Because as is known Abbay Tigray’s map incorporated parts of the Red Sea coast line and hence, it is not viable as is.

The key,

It requires a political honesty for the people of Ethiopia to address these entanglements. There needs to be a clear understanding of where the issues lie. It is also incumbent upon the people of Tigray to understand the burden as well as the responsibilities they carry for the rest of Ethiopia and ultimately, Tigray as part and parcel of Ethiopia.

At the height of the war with Eritrea in 2000, there was an opportunity for Meles and Ethiopia to chart a new direction for the nation and put it on a solid footing because Ethiopians were truly united at the time. Meles squandered that opportunity because he decided to sneak an election while the war was ongoing. However, Ethiopians waited for their time and came in the millions to reject the illegitimate con-man in 2005. That is when the brutality and naked disregard for the will of the Ethiopian people became glaringly obvious. That is also when Ethiopians clearly understood that he is only the yes man for his US and Western interests as the US Humvees roamed on the streets of Addis at that time. The US made Meles, their number one Ethiopian, gave him political cover from public scrutiny and actually raised his status by inviting him to the G-20 and G-8 meetings everywhere. That was when the Ethiopian revolution ribbon was cut.

Meles did not give Ethiopia a choice. Since then, Ethiopia’s fault-lines have widened along ethnic, religious, class, status and financial standing. The Gap between the halves and have-nots widened. The power and money is controlled by a handful that is in bed with the clique. At a moment in history where the world have traveled long to establish Anti Trust Laws, Meles is giving-away the nation in ways Ethiopians would have no control by leasing land to people that are not beholden to Ethiopians. The worst example of this is the land grab that is uprooting people from their villages.

Another sad example is the Midroc Ethiopia a mega conglomerate that is owned by Alamoudi. The billionaire is running a country within a country literally. He owns everything he needs. It is fascinating to imagine how any competition could be possible when he owns MIDROC Gold Mine PLC, ELFORA Agro-Industries PLC, Huda Real Estate PLC, Kombolcha Steel Products Industry PLC, Modern Building Industries PLC, addis Home Depot PLC, Trans Nation Airways PLC, addis Gas & Plastics Factory PLC, Wanza Furnishings Industries PLC, Daylight Applied Technologies PLC, Summit Engineered Plastics Pvt. Ltd. Co., Blue Nile P.P & Craft Paper Bags Manufacturing P.L.C, Rainbow Exclusive Car Rental And Tour Services Pvt. Ltd. Co., United Auto Maintenance Services Pvt. Ltd. Co., Queen’s Supermarket P.L.C. He even owns Trust Protection and Personnel Services PLC for security related matters. He has the capacity to manufacture, sell, and promote every conceivable product and services.

The problem here is not the success the billionaire enjoys. Rather, it is the concentration of unlimited powers that ought to concern all. His economic power accords him tremendous political and PR reach as well as influence beyond the capacity of any Ethiopian. It is rather strange to see a nation handing a Saudi billionaire the freedom to operate his own security company in a nation with a large army. This is uncharted territory because he is a billionaire that can afford to hire mercenary-troops, ala Black Water.

Conclusion

Is there a light at the end of the tunnel? At this point it is safe to say if it was up to the ingenuity of Meles, he will make the tunnel and the lights disappear in order to eliminate any and all threats. Absence of hope despair reigns. Unfortunately for Ethiopia, the Weyane clique made strategic calculations and concluded that it can only succeed as a hegemonic by using fear, threats, brute force, bribes, deceit, lies and all other deceptive tactics to stay in power. In the process, Ethiopians have given up altogether. They gave up hope in the process and on Weyane. After genocides, mass killings and shootings innocent peaceful demonstrators; after years of corruption, empty slogans and exaggerated numbers of growth and after years of wars they have decided enough. Beka!

Over the years, the threats have escalated. They are unapologetic and brazen when approaching the region, the international community, and issues of national security.

Over the last 3 months, Meles’s incoherent blubbering has increased to a new high. He has declared war with Eritrea and is threatening Egypt using the Nile as a pretext in order to rally support and divert attention. He has completely disregarded Ethiopians and chose to antagonize them by sending his cohorts in the Diaspora. That is backfiring or has backfired. Their brazen pokes have galvanized people against them. In fact they have given the public a gift by awakening them.

Meles Zenawi and the clique are amongst the deadliest, most ruthless group of people Africa has ever seen. Their brutality knows no boundaries. They have no humanity or good will in them. They have placed Ethiopia and the region in the gravest of dangers. It is like the Ebola virus that will devour its host violently until its own demise. However, as grim as it may look, there is hope. There is hope in unity of all the people in the region coming together. There is awareness that cooperation amongst all the people in the region is the ultimate weapon against this vile virus. It is time to utilize all means at our disposal to make sure the scourge meets its fate. The vile vermin knows his time is up that is why he is resorting to outright threats. And the good news is he is all bark and no bite. Because, while he is declaring war and bragging to change the regime, he is begging Eritrea to make peace with him at the same time. He stated we will relinquish you your Badme so long as you agree to make peace and not support his opposition. In other words, he inadvertently admitted his weaknesses.

Therefore, it is time to unite and get rid of this vermin. May be then, the region can see peace. We are all hungry and desperately seeking peace and development. This is a call to all peace loving people in Somalia, Kenya, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Sudan and Djibouti. It is time to chart a new direction. It is also time for the people of Tigray to see the sincerity of the call and not succumb to the fear the tyrant Meles may have instilled in them! In other words there is life after Meles with the people of Ethiopia and the region. That is the inescapable reality!

Awetnayu@hotmail.com

Asmara, 11 October 2010, (Shabait) – President Isaias Afwerki held talks in the Libyan city of Sirte with President Idris Debi of Chad in the morning hours today.

In the meeting, the two leaders conducted discussion on Eritrean-Chadian relations, as well as regional issues of mutual concern to both countries.

An Egyptian-Eritrean summit was held in Sharm el-Sheikh Tuesday May 4, 2010 between President Hosni Mubarak and Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, according to ESIS.

During the summit, the two leaders discussed a number of regional and international issues of common interest topped by relations between Egypt and the Nile Basin states based on mutual understanding and joint keenness to achieve balanced development in all Nile Basin states.

The summit tackled the results of the underway consultations with all Nile basin states in the light of messages which have been addressed by President Mubarak to the leaders of those countries in the wake of the ministerial meeting of the Nile Basin states which was held in Sharm el-Sheikh last month.

Talks between the two leaders focused on the situation in the horn of Africa and efforts to combat piracy in Somalia.

Furthermore, Mubarak and Afewrki reviewed ways of boosting bilateral relations in the political, economic and social fields, expanding trade and investment exchange as well as encouraging the establishment of joint projects for enhancing development plans.

The Eritrean President arrived in Sharm el-Sheikh on a three-day visit and was welcomed at the airport by Foreign Minister Ahmed Abul-Gheit, Minister Omar Suleiman, South Sinai Governor Mohamed Abdel-Fadil Shousha and the Eritrean Ambassador in Cairo.

Following the summit talks, the Eritrean President left Sharm el-Sheikh for Cairo for talks with Prime Minister Ahmed Nazif on expanding the scope of cooperation, the exchange of expertise and developing relations in the various domains.

Asmara: President Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea held talks with the African Union Liaison Office Sudan representatives headed by former South African President Thabo Mbeki and former President of Burundi Pierre Buyoya.

In the meeting, the delegation briefed President Isaias on the tasks the Liaison Office accomplished in Sudan and the implementation process of the comprehensive Sudanese peace agreement.

Further, the officials highlighted the various activities being carried out towards promoting peace in Darfur.

The President on his part expressed appreciation to the AU Liaison Office in Sudan for visiting Eritrea to hear the views of neighboring countries.

He further underlined the need for neighboring countries and parties keen to promote peace and stability in Sudan to make due contribution in reinforcing Sudanese endeavors, although the entire Sudanese people and the two concerned partners bear the main responsibility to this end.

Afwerki called on all concerned parties to work closely with the two main partners namely the National Congress Party and the SPLM so that the forthcoming referendum in South Sudan could lead to peace and stability in Sudan in general and South Sudan in particular.

By Barry Malone

ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) – Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said he is willing to meet Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki despite more than 10 years of bitter words and a bloody border war.

Eritrea last month accused Ethiopia of blocking its participation in African Union (AU) summits in Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa — seat of the 53-nation body.

Responding to questions, Meles denied the claims and said Isaias was welcome in Ethiopia.

“If the Eritrean government is eager to send any person, whether the president himself or any person, and participate in meetings they will be treated exactly like any other delegation,” Meles told reporters late on Thursday.

Meles said it was Addis Ababa’s obligation as AU headquarters.

The 1998-2000 war between two of the world’s poorest countries killed at least 70,000 people. An independent border commission in 2002 awarded the flashpoint town of Badme to Eritrea but Ethiopia still occupies the territory.

“I am prepared to talk to anybody on matters that help peace in the neighbourhood,” Meles said. “So as I have made it very clear on many occasions we are ready to talk to them at any level, at any time, any place.”

Meles did not say whether he was willing to discuss the border issue. ”I have no obligation to meet him at the airport,” Meles added.

In December, the U.N. Security Council imposed sanctions on Eritrea, accusing it of backing rebel groups in Somalia, where at least 21,000 people have been killed in violence since the beginning of 2007.

The sanctions, adopted in December and backed by 13 of the 15 members of the U.N. Security Council, include an arms embargo, travel restrictions and asset freezes for some of the country’s top officials.

Asmara says the Security Council is a proxy for the United States and says the multi-state body continues to ignore the fact that their territory is being occupied by Ethiopia, Washington’s strongest ally in the Horn of Africa.

(Editing by Giles Elgood)

Copyright © 2010 Reuters

Doha

DOHA, Feb 24 (SUNA) — The Grand Hall of the Sheraton Hotel in Doha on Tuesday evening was thevenue for the signing of the framework agreement for a ceasefire in Dafur in western Sudan between the government of Sudan and the Justice and Equality Movement (JEM).

The signing took place amidst a high-level regional and international presence led by the President of Sudan, Omar Al Bashir, the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, President Idress Debby of Chad, President Isaias Afwerki of Eritrea and Dr Khalil Ibrahim, the JEM Chairman.

It was also attended by Djibril Bassoule, the joint mediator for Dafur, and Professor Ibrahim Gambari, the Joint Special Representative of the African Union (AU) and the United Nations to UNAMID, and representatives of the permanent members of the UN Security Council, and other countries as well as representatives of the Arab League and the AU.

Dr Amin Hassan Omar signed on behalf of the government of the Sudan while Ahmad Tagad signed for the JEM, a rebel group involved in the Dafur conflict. The two sides shook hands and exchanged documents following the signing of the framework agreement.

The framework agreement is considered the first step towards the achievement of comprehensive and lasting peace in Darfur and it was well received by the international and regional communities as well as international organizations and relevant bodies concerned with peace in the region.

The Qatari government, its people and leadership played an important role, as mediator in the peace talks, a role highly appreciated by all concerned parties to the deal, with all parties nodding to the wise intelligent and informed role they played in the negotiations.

Chad’s President Idress Debby equally played an important role through his hosting of the initial signing and also showed the transformation in the Sudanese-Chadian relationship.

The government delegation to the event included a number of senior officials, representatives of the parties to Sudan’s government of national unity, civil society representatives, leaders from Darfur and members of the Sudan People’s Forum.

On the side of Justice and Equality Movement, those who attended the ceremony included the senior leaders of the movement who flew to Doha for the event.

The JEM declared a cease-fire as of the midnight of Tuesday as part of the implementation of the framework agreement.

JEM Chairman Dr. Khalil Ibrahim said at the signing ceremony that the agreement wais a step forward in the peace process and paved the way for negotiations for realizing peace in Darfur.

He added that the JEM was committed to the implementation of all items of the agreement, stating that the path for peace still needed great efforts, and that both parties should be ready to make concessions so that comprehensive peace in Darfur could be achieved.

Dr. Ibrahim called on the armed groups to establish a unity and partnership among them for the interest of the people and the homeland, a partnership of no loser or winner.

He called on the Emir of Qatar to sponsor the implementation of the agreement, expressing his appreciation of the great efforts being exerted by Qatar and its leader, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Hamad Al-Thani.

He also thanked the Emir of Qatar for his generous donation for the rehabilitation and development in Darfur.

Dr. Khalil Ibrahim also praised the role being played by Chad, Libya, the Arab League, the African Union and the joint mediation team, led by Qatar, for realizing peace in Darfur.

Djibril Bassole welcomed the framework agreement and described it as a positive step for the comprehensive solution for Darfur issue. He appreciated the efforts exerted by all parties for the signing of the agreement by the government and the JEM.

Bassole said that the agreement paves the way for beginning the negotiations in Doha for realization of comprehensive peace in Darfur.

AU Commission Chairman Jean Ping reiterated the commitment of the African Union to help Sudan and all parties to implement all clauses of the framework agreement to bolster peace and development all over Sudan.

Ping, who described the agreement as a landmark step in peace process and a real addition to the accomplishments in this regard, urged parties in the agreement to be committed to the implementation of all clauses of the agreement.

This accomplishment would be added to the accomplishments of Africa and assured the capability of the African people to overcome their differences without foreign intervention, he added.

President Deby affirmed the commitment of Chad to co-operate with the concerned parties to boost the implementation all the items of the agreement and said that Chad would work out a plan to guarantee implementation of the agreement.

He said Chad would exert efforts toward making all the Darfurian movements and Sudan’s government sign similar agreements. He said the role of Chad was a duty that was necessitated by the fact that Chad and Sudan are neighbours.

He referred to the suffering of Chad and Sudan from the armed movements and the clashes at the joint border area, adding that there would be no return to that past.

Asmara, 2 January 2010 – Shabait – In continuation of the interview he conducted with national media outlets tonight on the occasion of the New Year, President Isaias Afwerki underlined that the shameful and misguided illegal sanctions resolution against Eritrea is a manifestation of failed adventurous policies designed to victimize the nation.

The President explained that although the TPLF regime may perhaps has something to do with the sanctions, the whole affair is not basically the handwork of the regime. Stating that the TPLF clique, as a servant entity, may have contributed something to that in order to promote its narrow interests, he pointed out that the sanctions resolution has undoubtedly been masterminded by the CIA. This is mainly aimed at creating a crisis situation in Africa and expose its people to animosity among one another, and thus plunder the resources of the continent, besides imposing one’s narrow interests, President Isaias added.

Despite the fact that the United States is the main culprit behind the shameful and unjust resolution emanating from a disturbed mind, Uganda was, nonetheless, chosen as a sponsoring party so as to give the false impression that Africa has a hand in it, the President elaborated.

He went on to say that the policy of hegemony in the Horn of Africa unfolded by end of the Cold War at the time Eritrea achieved independence, Somalia was engulfed in turmoil, Sudan entered into a new political stage and Ethiopia in particular experienced new situation. In this respect, President Isaias underscored that US intelligence agencies were the main instigator of the Eritrean-Ethiopian conflict.

Citing that the baseless sanctions resolution against Eritrea was adopted under the pretext that it extends financial and arms support to ‘extremists’ and non-recognition of the externally imposed transitional government in Somalia, the President explained that such allegations have no substance at all. In this connection, he elucidated that Eritrea does not interfere in the internal affairs of Somalia and that it advocates the existence of a united and sovereign Somali nation. Still, Eritrea has the right to extend political and moral support to the Somali people, the President emphasized.

As regards the Eritrean-Djiboutian issue, President Isaias pointed out that it is a fabricated ploy designed to undermine peace in the region through concocting a non-existing conflict. In this regard, he noted that although the issue could have been resolved on the basis of mutual understanding and even arbitration, the authors as usual sought to exaggerate matters so as to blackmail Eritrea.

The President explained in detail the numerous acts of conspiracy weaved on the part of enemy quarters over the past 11 to 12 years with a view to impeding economic, development and investment programs, as well as achieving food security, putting in place infrastructure facilities and foreign investment.

Moreover, he outlined the various ploys employed through deploying mercenary agents to block the flow of foreign currency into the country in a bid to undermine national security and isolating the country through forming alliances with a number of countries, among others. In this connection, President Isaias commended the Eritrean people’s unmatched steadfastness in rebuffing such obstacles.

Indicating that the attempts made by the CIA to isolate Eritrean nationals from their people and leadership through various ploys in a bid to serve as an opposition force have ended in utter failure, the President underscored the fact that Eritrean nationals, including those who crossed the border illegally continued to uphold unwavering attachment to the Homeland has ever more frustrated and anguished such enemy quarters.

Noting that the Eritrean people have been challenging and putting forth views prior to the adoption of the sanctions resolutions without waiting for directives, President Isaias pointed out that the sanctions move is in its early stage, and that the Eritrean people inside the country and abroad remain resolute as ever to meet challenges.

Sudan-Eritrea

News Agencies NNN-SUNA report that President Omer Al-Bashir of Sudan and the visiting Eritrean President, Isaias Afwerki, Monday held talks here on a number of issues of mutual concern to the two countries.

The two presidents reviewed means of consolidating relations between Sudan and Eritrea and gave directives for strengthening the co-operation between the Sudanese Red Sea State and Eritrea’s Northern Red Sea Region.

They also gave directives for completing the establishment of the road between Massawa and port-Sudan, giving concern to the establishment of tourism projects and benefiting from the large resources and capabilities at the Red Sea coastal area.

President Al-Bashir briefed the Eritrean president on the implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement (CPA), the registration for the coming elections and the efforts for a solution of Darfur issue.

Presidents Al-Bashir and Afwerki also reviewed the regional and international issues, especially with regard to the situation in the Horn of Africa sub-region.

On Sunday Sudanese News Agencies reported that President Omer Al-Bashir is going to inaugurate on Monday the Industrial Town and the Strategic Reserve Silos in Port Sudan and that President Isaias Afwerki will attend when President Omer Al-Bashir is intending to plant two palm trees to mark the National Tree Festival and address a mass rally at Al-Bayya Square.

In addition the reports stated that President Omer Al-Bashir will attend a sea carival and show and inaugurate the Third Tourism and Marketing Festival of the Red Sea State.

President in Sudan

Eritrean Ministry of Information site Shabait reports that President Isaias Afwerki is currently conducting a working visit in the Sudanese Red Sea Zone and was today accorded warm welcome by the inhabitants of the Zone.

Speaking at celebrations held in the port city of Port Sudan in which Sudanese President Omar Hassen Al-Beshir and various other officials took part, President Isaias recalled that the Sudanese Red Sea Zone used to sever as a strategic safe haven of the Eritrean people’s struggle for liberation. He further expressed appreciation on his own behalf and that of the people and Government of Eritrea to the Sudanese people in general and the East Sudan region in particular.

Indicating that the current visit is a continuation of the historical and strategic relations and cooperation between the two peoples, the President asserted the readiness of both sides to enhance bilateral cooperation through implementing common projects in the domains of trade, investment, transport and others.

Likewise, President Omar Hassen Al-Beshir said that the Eritrean-Sudanese relations is deep, as well as people-based and historical, and the fact that the Sudanese people stood alongside the Eritrean people emanated from this principled conviction.

Recalling the endeavors made through Eritrea’s mediation and the personal initiative of President Isaias to achieve a peaceful solution to the East Sudan region’s issue,   President Al-Beshir explained that not only peace and security prevails in the East Sudan borders at present but the region is also marching towards development thanks to such dedicated endeavors.

President Isaias left for Sudan in the morning hours today at the invitation of President Omar Hassen Al-Beshir. During his stay in Sudan, the President would hold talks with his Sudanese counterpart on bilateral relations, besides observing the implementation of development programs in East Sudan.

September 15 2009 (ASMARA) – Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki declared yesterday his support to southern Sudan rights and aspirations.

Sudanese First Vice President and President of Southern Sudan government paid a two day visit to Asmara where he had been arrived yesterday for talks with President Afwerki. The two leaders agreed to enhance bilateral relations between Eritrea and southern Sudan. Kiir returned today to Juba.

Following their meeting on Monday the Eritrean President “asserted the Eritrean government’s firm and enduring pledge towards ensuring the rights and aspirations of the people of South Sudan,” the official Shabait website reported.

Kiir’s visit to Asmara, in response to an invitation extended by the President Afwerki came months after unprecedented attack on the SPLM by the Eritrean leader who had accused the southern Sudan ruling part of corruption.

In his last May statements Afwerki also demanded the SPLM to declare a clear view on the future of Sudan.

According to the Eritrean information ministry website, President Isaias “pointed out that at the present delicate juncture in which the Sudan finds itself, the SPLM under the leadership of Mr. Salva Kiir Mayardit is expected to play a leading role.”

During the past years, Asmara which had bad relations with Khartoum supported the SPLM and the rest of the Sudanese opposition groups who had their headquarters in the Eritrean capital.

“Eritrea is one of the close friends of the people of South Sudan” said Salva Kiir who reaffirmed the SPLM’s willingness to boost relations with Eritrea, particularly in exchanging views on developments in the Sudan and enhancing mutual cooperation.

Kiir also discussed with Afwerki political developments in southern Sudan and expressed SPLM’s stance on Sudanese issues including Darfur conflict.

Further SPLM delegation headed by deputy chairman, Malik Agar held a meeting with an Eritrean delegation led Yemane Gebreab, head of Political Affairs at the Eritrean ruling part PFDJ where they agreed to strengthen relations between the PFDJ and the SPLM, as well as the ties between the two governments.

The two parties also discussed the CPA implementation and the ongoing discussion between the two peace partners over the border demarcation, elections and referendum bill.

President Afwerki also accepted an invitation extended by GOSS President Salva Kiir to visit southern Sudan. (SudanTribune)