Addis Ababa:United Nations Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Guang Cong, has expressed commendation for Ethiopia's significant contributions to regional peace and security. These contributions are evident through the nation's peacekeeping engagements and initiatives that facilitate regional dialogue.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Guang Cong, in an exclusive interview, emphasized Ethiopia's pivotal role in organizing platforms like the Tana Forum. This annual event, held in Bahir Dar near Lake Tana, gathers national, regional, and international stakeholders to address peace and security challenges.
Guang highlighted the Tana Forum as a critical venue for exchanging perspectives on regional issues, exploring collaborative opportunities, and determining how international partners can engage with regional and continental organizations to address shared concerns. He underscored the necessity for regional countries to respect sovereignty, territorial integrity, and non-interference in internal affairs.
Furthermore, Guang called for attention to regional geopolitical dynamics and the bolstering of regional and continental institutions to lead in resolving security challenges. He emphasized the need for support from the United Nations and the international community in these efforts.
Guang noted Ethiopia's strategic importance, with its large population and rapidly growing economy, as a key player in regional peace and security. He also pointed out Addis Ababa's status as a major diplomatic center and Ethiopia's contributions to peace efforts across the Horn of Africa.
Reflecting on his experience in South Sudan, Guang confirmed Ethiopia's role, alongside neighboring countries, in facilitating discussions that led to the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan. On Ethiopia's quest for sea access, Guang stressed the need for dialogue and negotiations with relevant countries.
He reiterated the United Nations' readiness to support efforts aimed at reducing regional tensions and facilitating structured dialogue on sea access.
