The Ethiopian government has issued a warning to its citizens against traveling to Thailand and Myanmar, citing the absence of formal labor agreements with these countries.
Ambassador Nebiyu Tedla, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, addressed the media in a press conference discussing current diplomatic issues.
He highlighted that a significant number of Ethiopians are being deceived by illegal brokers into traveling to these Asian nations under false pretenses.
“The government is aware that many Ethiopians are traveling to Thailand and Myanmar for employment opportunities. However, it is important to note that Ethiopia has not signed any employment agreements with these countries,” stated Ambassador Nebiyu.
He emphasized that efforts are underway through Ethiopian embassies in Japan, Tokyo and New Delhi, India to assist Ethiopians who have been misled by illegal brokers and are now facing perilous situations.
Ambassador Nebiyu also touched on the state of Ethiopia’s relations with Eritrea, asserting that diplomatic ties between the two nations remain strong.
Addressing the recent Ethiopian Airlines flight suspension, he clarified that this matter involves the civil aviation authorities of both countries and can be resolved through dialogue.
The Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority has announced the suspension of all Ethiopian Airlines flights to Eritrea, effective from September 30, 2024.
The announcement, issued today by the Eritrean Ministry of Transport and Communications, has significant implications for air travel between the two neighboring countries.
In a statement, Ethiopian Airlines confirmed receiving a letter from the Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority on July 21, 2024, indicating the suspension of all flights to Asmara starting September 30, 2024.
Ethiopian Airlines expressed its intention to engage with the Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority to resolve the issue positively.
The Eritrean Civil Aviation Authority cited several reasons for the suspension, including “organized and systematic theft of luggage, unreasonable price increases, abuse, and non-payment of compensation.”
Journalists queried the ambassador about the ongoing dispute between Ethiopia and Somalia concerning the Somaliland port agreement.
Ambassador Nebiyu indicated that the second round of negotiations between the two countries is expected to take place in Ankara, Turkey, in one month’s time.
“Despite Ethiopia’s substantial contributions to Somalia peace efforts, including sacrificing lives, some Somali leaders have made statements that fail to acknowledge these efforts,” said Ambassador Nebiyu.
He added that Ethiopia has chosen not to retaliate to inappropriate comments from some Somalia leaders, maintaining a stance of patience and good neighborliness.
Turkey, acting as a mediator in the port deal negotiations between Ethiopia and Somaliland, will be sending its Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, to Ethiopia.
Minister Fidan is scheduled to arrive in Addis Ababa on August 3, 2024, for an official visit. During his stay, he will meet with his Ethiopian counterpart and Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed to further discuss the mediation efforts and strengthen bilateral relations.
