ADDIS ABABA (ENA/FBC)–Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki has arrived in Ethiopia today for a 3-day state visit.
Upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport, he was welcomed by high ranking Ethiopian government officials, including Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, PhD, Deputy Prime Minister Demeke Mekonnen, and Foreign Minister Workneh Gebeyehu, PhD.
President Isaias Afwerki’s speech at the National Palace
President Isaias Afwerki said we are one people and only those who are unable to see the vivid reality can perceive us (Eritreans and Ethiopians) as two people.
Speaking at luncheon at the National Palace in Addis Ababa, President Isaias appreciated the warm welcome he was given by Ethiopians describing it as “happiness difficult to describe.”
“The world has to notice that history is in the making between our two countries and peoples,” he added.
Stating that the love and desire of Eritrea has already been expressed by its people while welcoming Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Asmara last week, Isaias Afwerki said the feelings of happiness and love among both people is genuine.
Grieving for the martyrs who were unable to see the present accomplishment of Ethiopia and Eritrea, the President noted that “we are all lucky to be able to see this.”
“We believe the future in store is bright and successful and exemplary to the entire world,” he pointed out.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said “we are grateful for the respect and commitment of the people that have been supporting us while we have not provided them any service yet.”
Religious leaders have prayed for the successful completion of the peace and unity.
The relationship ushers in a new chapter of peace and economic prosperity closing the chapter of war that had devastating effect for the last two decade.
During its three-day stay in Ethiopia, the Eritrean delegation will visit the Hawassa Industrial Park in the SNNP regional state.
Reopening the Eritrean Embassy, resuming flights to Asmara
According to the Government Communication Affairs Office Minister Ahmed Shide, the Eritrean Embassy in Addis Ababa will be reopened on Monday.
The Ethiopian Airlines will resume daily flights to Asmara as of July 18, 2018 with the most technologically advanced commercial aircraft, the Boeing 787.