APA-Addis Ababa (Ethiopia) The United States has announced that it has lifted its designations against Ethiopia as a gross human rights violating nation, according to notification by the US Treasury Department.
The announcement came after the Biden administration Friday informed the US congress over its decision that it will no longer consider Ethiopia as a country engaging in a “pattern of gross violations of human rights.”
The move by the Biden administration to lift the designation showcases its readiness to strengthen ties with Ethiopia, which it views as an anchor for US engagement on the continent and crucial player in the African security and development initiatives.
This move clears the path for the resumption of U.S. and international economic aid to Ethiopia.
The Biden administration recognizes Ethiopia’s strategic significance as one of the largest economies in East Africa.
It views the country as an anchor for U.S. engagement on the continent, given its role in African security, hosting the African Union, and contributing troops to U.N. peacekeeping operations.
President Joe Biden has praised Ethiopia’s government for its assistance in evacuating U.S. diplomats and citizens from Sudan during the recent conflict. This recognition has contributed to the administration’s desire to enhance ties with Ethiopia, the notifiation has said.
“Treasury will stop instructing the relevant U.S. Executive Directors at the IFTs to oppose any loan extension of financial assistance, or any technical assistance to Ethiopia,” the new notification to the Congress reads.
Ethiopia is a leading contributor of troops to UN peace keeping operations and hosts the African Union. More recently U.S. President Joe Biden praised Ethiopian government for its role in helping to support the rapid evacuation of U.S diplomats and citizens from conflict hit Sudan.
MG/as/APA