Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos met with Saudi Vice Minister Waleed El Khereiji to discuss bilateral relations amid rising tensions with Eritrea. The dialogue focused on economic cooperation, regional stability, and the Sudan conflict, reflecting growing Saudi interest in Ethiopia despite underlying geopolitical tensions.
On Wednesday, Ethiopia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, met with Saudi Vice Minister for Foreign Affairs, Waleed Abdulkarim El Khereiji. The dialogue aimed to address shared bilateral and regional concerns, particularly as tensions escalate between Ethiopia and Eritrea regarding control over the Assab port. A week prior, Ethiopia and Israel’s foreign ministers held discussions in Jerusalem, coinciding with the visit of the Saudi delegation.
The backdrop to this meeting includes Eritrea’s accusations of Ethiopian “warmongering.” Recently, Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki communicated with Saudi Arabia’s foreign minister amidst rising tensions. Reports indicate Saudi Arabia and Eritrea have established an investment agreement involving the Assab port, which has raised concerns among Ethiopian politicians from Tigray who fear Saudi involvement in a potential military conflict.
Conversely, the Ethiopian government’s narrative underscores economic cooperation rather than conflict. Gedion Timothewos highlighted their discussions regarding enhanced economic relations. The Sudan conflict was also on the agenda, as Ethiopia reiterated its neutral stance and commitment to resolving the crisis in Sudan, with Saudi Arabia expressing readiness to engage with all involved parties.
Additionally, El Khereiji met with Ambassador Misganu Arega, focusing on economic ties and collaborative efforts to combat human trafficking. Saudi Arabia has shown interest in various sectors, including agriculture and technology. Despite discussions on bilateral relations, it remains unclear if the escalating tensions between Eritrea and Ethiopia were addressed.
Tensions have persisted, with Eritrea urging the international community to pressure Ethiopia to respect its sovereignty while Ethiopia accuses Eritrea of collusion with TPLF factions to incite regional unrest. The evolving relationship between Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Saudi Arabia remains pertinent amid the intensifying geopolitical climate.
In summary, the meeting between Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timothewos and Saudi Vice Minister Waleed Abdulkarim El Khereiji emphasizes a shared commitment to bolster economic ties and discuss regional stability, particularly regarding the Sudan conflict. While Eritrean tensions hang in the background, both nations seek to navigate complex diplomatic waters, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s growing interest in Ethiopia amid a potential military confrontation with Eritrea. The anticipated fallout from these regional dynamics warrants close observation.
Original Source: borkena.com
