ADDIS ABABA / WASHINGTON (HornPost) Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed held a telephone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on bilateral relations and regional and multilateral issues, with the two sides’ public accounts highlighting different aspects of the discussions.
In a statement published by the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), Abiy described the conversation as “very fruitful” and said it demonstrated both countries’ commitment to turning their longstanding relationship into a more strategic and practical partnership.
Abiy also welcomed what he described as Washington’s assurance of continued support for Ethiopia. He said the two countries shared a commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation and addressing regional and multilateral priorities.
US Emphasizes De-escalation Between Ethiopia and Eritrea
The US account of the call, reported by Anadolu Agency citing the State Department, focused on rising tensions between Ethiopia and neighboring Eritrea.
According to the report, Rubio called for de-escalation by all sides and said dialogue and engagement, in line with the 2018 Ethiopia–Eritrea peace framework, offered the only sustainable way to address internal and external tensions.
Rubio also stressed that countries in the Horn of Africa should respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of their neighbors and avoid cross-border incursions. He warned that the region could not afford another conflict.
Regional Context
The call comes amid deteriorating relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea, with disagreements over security and Ethiopia’s pursuit of access to the Red Sea adding to regional concerns.
The two countries signed a peace agreement in 2018 after years of hostility. However, tensions have resurfaced, and both governments have raised concerns about the other’s actions and intentions. Reuters reported on October 13 that Ethiopian forces had advanced into the border town of Zalambessa, amid renewed fears of conflict.
What Both Sides Have Confirmed
Ethiopia’s public account emphasized the strategic partnership and continued US support. The US account, as reported by Anadolu Agency, highlighted de-escalation, respect for territorial integrity and the need to prevent further conflict.
The public statements reviewed did not provide a detailed account of every issue discussed during the call, nor did they announce a new bilateral agreement.
Sources: Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation (EBC), Anadolu Agency and Reuters.
Prepared by:
HornPost staff
