Imposing Unilateral Sanction, Coercive Measures on Ethiopia Unacceptable: Russian Ambassador

Addis Ababa, November 13/2021 (ENA) Imposing unilateral sanction or coercive measures on Ethiopia regarding the situations in the country is counterproductive and unacceptable, Russian Ambassador to Ethiopia Terekhin noted.

Speaking to Oromia Broadcasting Network (OBN), Ambassador Evgeny Terekhin said the imposition of unilateral sanction and coercive measures on Ethiopia is counterproductive that will aggravate the situations.

Such actions affect the ordinary people and would bring more contradictions and sufferings, he added.

“We believe that such kind of unilateral sanctions are introduced only in a desperate effort to punish the country and the people as a whole,” the ambassador stressed.

History has witnessed that Ethiopians have repeatedly affirmed their capability of living in inter-ethnic harmony and they build a common state together, he noted, adding that the internal problems of Ethiopia need to be left to Ethiopia, the Ethiopian government and stakeholders who can finally find solution.

“We witness efforts of the Ethiopian government and communities to preserve stability, security and territorial integrity of the country,” Ambassador Terekhin said, noting that external stakeholders engage in internal affairs of Ethiopia only when they are invited. Otherwise it is unacceptable.

The ambassador also condemned the irresponsible behavior of international media outlets for spreading fake news regarding the situations in Ethiopia.

He urged all international stakeholders that are capable of influencing the situations, including the media, to take responsible approach to avoid fueling the ongoing strife as well as to avoid escalating rhetoric and hatred speeches.   

Since the atrocities and violence triggered by TPLF have caused the suffering of ordinary people, increased the number of refugees and internally displaced persons, humanitarian aid should be increased and it must be provided to those in need in close collaboration with authorities of Ethiopia, the ambassador pointed out.

Ambassador Terekhin said Russia will strengthen all spheres of cooperation with Ethiopia and stand alongside Ethiopia and its people.

“We have always been on the side of Ethiopia and its people. …We believe that Ethiopia will overcome the present day situation,” he underscored.