Hailemariam confers with Norwegian delegation

Addis Ababa, April 12, 2011 (Addis Ababa, ENA) - Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Hailemariam Dessalegn said besides providing development assistance to Ethiopia it is supporting to ensure peace and stability of the Horn of Africa.

Deputy PM Hailemariam held discussion with Norwegian delegation led by Defense Minister Grete Faremo here on Tuesday.

On the occasion, Deputy PM Hailemariam said Norway is assisting the development endeavor of Ethiopia in the sphere of mining, power supply and water, among others.

He said the bilateral relation of the two countries is encouraging and would further be enhanced.

The two parties have discussed on the current situation in the Sudan, South Sudan, Eritrea, Somalia and Libya according to foreign affairs ministry spokesperson, Ambassador Dina Mufti.

Deputy PM Hailemariam briefed the delegation about Ethiopia’s strong cooperation with South Sudan and the post-referendum situation.

Regarding Somalia, he said TFG army and AU peacekeeping force has taken successful offensive attack on Al-Shebab.

Ethiopia has played significant role in resolving the disagreement between Somaliland and Punt, he said
He has explained the Ethiopia's policy towards the Eritrean government.

Eritrea is maneuvering and intervening in the affaires of South Sudan he said and, called up on the Norwegian government and international community to press on Eritrea.

He said the Ethiopian government supports the stand of the AU and UN decision on Libya.

The defense minister on her part said she exchanged views on bilateral concerns and current situation in the horn of Africa.

She said the two countries are also cooperating in international concerns.