Ambassador Tekeda Alemu’s comments, arguing that former Ambassador Herman J. Cohen’s piece is mistaken, aims to diminish the possibility of normalization. Although normalization of relations is in the long-term benefit of both Eritrea and Ethiopia, the short term gain to Ethiopia drives current policy. Amb. Tekeda, in arguing that Eritrea is the intrasigent actor, makes assertions meant to diminsh the credibility of former Amb. Cohen’s piece.
The leaders of Eritrea, in a reflection of the Eritrean people, strive for regional and international cooperation. This goal is outlined as the sixth goal of the Eritrean National Charter. Specifically, to coexist in harmony and contribute, within its means to global peace, security and development.
Apparently, although Ethiopia has apparently “changed” its stance towards Eritrea (actively seeking its downfall, although whether or not this is a change can be legitimately debated), the arms embargo by the United Nations has continued. In fact this brings to light a very real, and if gone unchecked, dangerous rejection of the UN Charter:
In an interview1 regarding several issues by IRIN (Integrated Regional Information Networks, a UN organization), the Executive Secretary, Mahboub M. Maalim, of the IGAD (Inter-Governmental Authority on Development, a regional organization) commented on the Ethiopia – Eritrea dispute. To the interviewers credit, s/he asked a pointed and relevant follow up question to investigate further. The relevant excerpts are as follows: