Media Statement
2 November 2023
Statement of support on the Anniversary of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement between the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front – 2 November 2023
Today marks the first anniversary of the signing in Pretoria, under the tutelage of the African Union, of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement between the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front.
The Pretoria Agreement, as it is called, has been instrumental in helping silence the guns, ushering in peace and stability, and paving the way for the gradual normalisation of life in northern Ethiopia.
The tireless efforts of the African Union through the AU High-Level Panel on Ethiopia, comprising former President Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria, former President Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya and former Deputy President of South Africa, Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, are commendable.
The Pretoria Peace Agreement was heralded as demonstrable proof that African solutions to African problems were possible.
Recently, the Prime Minister of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Dr Abiy Ahamed Ali, has apprised President Cyril Ramaphosa on progress made to date in the implementation of the Pretoria Agreement. South Africa has thus taken due note of the reported progress registered thus far, as evidenced by the restoration of essential services and provision of humanitarian assistance in the Tigray Region.
Additionally, South Africa has noted the progress achieved in the disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration of the Tigray Armed Forces as monitored by the African Union Monitoring, Verification and Compliance Mechanism deployed in Tigray.
South Africa encourages the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the TPLF leadership to spare no effort in the full implementation of the Pretoria Agreement.
South Africa places great premium on its relations with Ethiopia, which are informed by historical ties dating back to South Africa’s liberation struggle. These relations continue to grow from strength to strength.
As we continue to deepen our friendship, enhancing the common understanding between our Governments, we do so for the mutual benefit of our peoples.
Let peace, stability and development prevail in Ethiopia.
Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for DIRCO, 082 884 5974
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
Pretoria
0084