Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, Demeke Mekonnen meets with his Belgian counterpart Sophie Wilmès

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, HE Mr. Demeke Mekonnen conferred with his counterpart Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belgium H.E Sophie Wilmès in Brussels on Wednesday, November 25, 2020.
On the occasion, H.E. Demeke explained to Madam Wilems the significance of the law enforcement operation in the Tigray Region to bring to justice the TPLF Junta that openly attacked the Northern Command of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces on November 4, 2020.
Mr. Demeke talked about the two and half year long efforts made by the government to encourage the TPLF leadership to be a constructive force to the reform and democratization process. He noted, on the contrary, about the unlawful deeds committed by TPLF Junta and the further destabilization acts it took in many parts of the country by aligning with extremist elements.
He emphasized, in this light, the primary responsibility of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to maintain the rule of law, protecting, and defending the Constitution and ensuring peace and security of its citizens.
Madam Wilems on her part has welcomed the delegation and congratulated Mr. Demeke for assuming his new position. She noted, on times, there is an intention to put the Government of Ethiopia with the same level as the junta.
She then expressed her government's concern about the humanitarian situation and its possible spillover impact in the broader region. She noted that her government is keenly following AU-led efforts and dialogue needs to happen.
Mr. Demeke on his part has highlighted the purpose of the operation is to bring to justice the TPLF junta with the utmost care to avoid civilian casualties. He has, in this case, explained the collaboration that is being made with international humanitarian organizations to operationalize basic assistance to the society in the areas where the operation is being conducted. He noted in the several towns that were freed from the junta already basic services are being delivered to the needy.
He also emphasized for the understanding of the international community about the efforts underway to keep law and order in the country and in this regard called for the support of the Belgian government to play a fair and balanced role in its current position of non-permanent member of the UNSC. He mentioned the AU special envoys will meet Prime Minister Abiy soon.
Mr. Demeke took the occasion to congratulate Ms. Sophie Wilmes on assuming her new role as Deputy Prime Minister & Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Belgium. He expressed confidence during their tenures; both officials will do their almost to strengthen the long-standing and friendly relations between the two countries. He also took the occasion to invite Madam Wilems to pay an official visit to Ethiopia.
Ethiopia and Belgium have a long history of diplomatic relations since 1906, when the Government of Belgium first open.

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