Gov't Working to Find Solutions to Problems Causing Conflicts: President Sahle-Work

March 24/2021(ENA) President Sahle-Work Zewde said the government is working to find solutions to problems that are causing conflicts in the country.

In her opening address to the national research discussion forum under the theme "Scientific Recommendations for Sustainable Solutions for Boundaries, Identity and Self-administration" today, President Sahle-Work said priority must be given to ensuring lasting peace by correcting the misconceptions inherited from the past.

“We must stand together for peace by opposing clannish mentality and selfishness that are not suitable for the 21st century, but prevalent in the country,” she added.

The president pointed out that citizens have the right to self-determination under the constitution, but questions about identity and other issues have not been adequately addressed.

As a result, Sahle-Work stated that identity and boundary issues have led to conflict, tragic deaths, destruction of property and displacement. 

She noted that the government is working to find research-based solutions to the problems that are causing conflicts in the country and a commission has been set up to provide scientific advice on boundaries and identity issues.

Citizens should stand guard for peace by providing clear and credible information to the commission and strongly opposing extremism, the president stressed.

Boundaries and Identity Affairs Commission Chairperson, Tassew Gebre said the discussion will help to gather inputs for the study on boundaries, identity and self-governance issues in the country.

He said the research being carried out by various institutions and researchers is aimed at facilitating the integration of international experiences into solutions. 

A scientific study is being conducted in all regions to address issues related to administrative boundaries and identity, according to the chairperson.

The two-day discussion is organized by Boundaries and Identity Commission, in collaboration with Ministry of Peace and the Institute for Security Studies.