Tensions between Addis Ababa, Asmara and Cairo are raising concern within the African Union.
The continental organisation has called on the three countries to exercise restraint and engage in dialogue to prevent further deterioration of the regional situation.
In a statement on Thursday the AU has raised the alarm over the escalating tensions in the region, saying it was following developments “with concern” and called on the three member states to exercise utmost restraint.
The continental organisation called on Addis Ababa, Asmara and Cairo to refrain from any action or statement that could further aggravate tensions and undermine peace and stability in the region.
Prioritising diplomacy
For the African Union, maintaining dialogue remains essential. The AU Commission stressed the need to preserve communication channels among the three capitals and encouraged the parties to use existing diplomatic mechanisms to resolve their differences.
The AU therefore called on Ethiopia, Eritrea and Egypt to prioritise peaceful dialogue, in line with the principles enshrined in the Constitutive Act of the African Union.
AU ready to support de-escalation efforts
Amid rising tensions, the African Union Commission said it was ready to contribute to de-escalation efforts.
It said that, in consultation with the countries concerned, it intended to support initiatives aimed at reducing tensions, promoting dialogue and achieving a peaceful settlement of disputes.
The statement comes against a particularly sensitive regional backdrop, with relations among the three countries carrying strategic significance for stability in the Horn of Africa and the Nile Basin.
Through the appeal, the African Union reaffirmed its support for the peaceful settlement of disputes and encouraged the parties to keep diplomatic channels open in order to prevent further escalation.
TE/Sf/lb/as/APA