The EU may lift visa restrictions on Ethiopia by May 2024, improving relations as the Ethiopian government collaborates with the EU on repatriation issues. Ongoing financial aid discussions and concerns regarding the Amhara conflict and human rights highlight the EU’s intentions to support Ethiopia, pending further developments.
The European Union (EU) is contemplating the removal of visa restrictions on Ethiopia by May. These restrictions, enacted in April 2024, complicated the visa application process for Ethiopian citizens. Notably, visa fees were imposed on holders of diplomatic and service passports, while the processing time escalated from 15 to 45 working days.
Sophie Frommsberger, the EU Ambassador to Ethiopia, indicated that the relationship is on an upward trajectory. She stated, “Trust has been built to bring the Ethiopian government and the European Union back on track through constructive dialogue,” in the context of previous tensions stemming from the conflict in northern Ethiopia.
Initially, the EU enforced visa restrictions because Ethiopia was not repatriating individuals whose asylum applications had been rejected. However, progress is being made as Ethiopian embassies in Europe collaborate with the EU to address these issues. The ambassador remarked, “It is on our agenda. The Ethiopian government… has shown great progress in accordance with international law.”
Additionally, discussions are underway regarding the potential resumption of financial aid to Ethiopia, which was suspended during regional conflicts. Although the ambassador expressed interest in re-establishing support for Ethiopia, no definitive decision has been reached yet.
Ongoing strife in Ethiopia’s Amhara region remains a significant concern for the EU, prompting calls for a cessation of hostilities and a return to negotiations among conflicting parties. Furthermore, the EU has expressed human rights concerns during a recent UN meeting, highlighting the broader implications of international aid reductions. The ambassador emphasized that the EU alone cannot compensate for the aid lost due to cuts from the former US administration and has urged a unified approach within the global community to support Ethiopia.
The European Union is considering lifting visa restrictions on Ethiopia, potentially by May, in light of improving diplomatic relations. As the Ethiopian government works to repatriate rejected asylum seekers and address human rights issues, the EU remains focused on fostering peace in conflict zones like Amhara. The reinstatement of financial aid is under discussion, although no commitments have yet been established, emphasizing the need for international collaboration to assist Ethiopia effectively.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
