US Ambassador Lauds Gov’t for Promoting Human Rights, Inclusive Political Environment

Addis Ababa July 19/2018 Ethiopia has taken important steps towards promoting human rights and creating inclusive political environment, United States Ambassador to Ethiopia Michael Raynor said. Speaking at the 8th Bilateral Dialogue on Human Rights, Democracy, and Governance which kicked off today he appreciated the government’s commitment towards taking strong steps in promoting human rights and democracy. Ambassador Raynor stated that the recent events have put Ethiopia on a fast and comprehensive path of reform and progress, notably including steps to address political, governance, and human rights challenges. “We view the selection of Prime Minister Abiy as an important gesture by the EPRDF in acknowledging the aspirations of the Ethiopian people for a more inclusive and responsive political system,” he elaborated. According to Raynor, “the Prime Minister has made extraordinarily strong, clear, and forthright statementsin his first 100 days in office and led the Government of Ethiopia to take some important steps toward promoting human rights and creating an inclusive political environment.” The steps taken so far are impressive and commendable, but Prime Minister Abiy has made clear that they are the first of many steps to come, he pointed out. Noting that the implementation of the steps is the deciding matter, the American ambassador said “this process can only succeed if it comes from within Ethiopia, led by Ethiopians for Ethiopians.” Ambassador Raynor assured the commitment of the United States government to Ethiopia in making the ambitious goals “we have heard over the last several months a reality.” Foreign Affairs State Minister Aklilu Hailemachel said Ethiopia and the United States are working on global issues of mutual concerns like fighting terrorism and regional peace and security. He thanked the US government for supporting platforms such as capacity building program in justice, human rights, conflict prevention, good governance, and strengthening democratic institutions which are the core pillars of the government Ethiopia for inclusive and sustainable development. Aklilu said the dialogue will focus on issues of human rights, justice, and violation of the rights of detainees and political prisoners that have all been addressed adequately by the recent reforms. According to the State Minister, Ethiopia has been undertaking reforms whichhe hoped the United States will support. "I strongly believe that continuous and regular consultation with partners will yield the desired outcome interms of creating mutual understanding, strengthening governance, democracy and human rights in Ethiopia,”he stated. The State Minister emphasized that Ethiopia is committed to forge its partnership with United States in multifaceted areas.