The EU may lift visa restrictions on Ethiopia by May 2024, following improved relations. The initial restrictions were a response to Ethiopia’s failure to repatriate rejected asylum seekers. The EU is also considering resuming financial aid, while advocating for negotiations to resolve ongoing conflicts and addressing human rights concerns.
The European Union (EU) is contemplating the removal of visa restrictions imposed on Ethiopia, potentially by May 2024. These restrictions, enacted in April 2024, significantly hampered Ethiopians’ ability to obtain visas, with increased fees for diplomatic and service passport holders and prolonged processing times from 15 to 45 working days.
According to Sophie Frommsberger, the EU Ambassador to Ethiopia, the relationship between Ethiopia and the EU has shown signs of improvement. She remarked, “Trust has been built to bring the Ethiopian government and the European Union, which have been strained by the war in northern Ethiopia, back on track through constructive dialogue.”
The initial visa restrictions were introduced because Ethiopia was slow to repatriate its citizens whose asylum applications had been denied in Europe. However, ongoing collaboration between Ethiopian embassies in Europe and the EU is reportedly addressing this issue. The ambassador noted, “It is on our agenda. The Ethiopian government, together with Ethiopian embassies in Europe, has shown great progress in accordance with international law.”
In addition to visa discussions, the EU is considering the resumption of financial aid to Ethiopia, which had been withdrawn during the northern conflict. The ambassador indicated a willingness to support Ethiopia again, although no concrete decision has been reached.
A pressing concern remains the conflict in Ethiopia’s Amhara region. The EU continues to advocate for a cessation of hostilities and encourages all parties to engage in negotiations. Furthermore, the EU has raised issues pertaining to human rights in Ethiopia during a recent UN meeting, emphasizing the need for comprehensive international support. The ambassador expressed the sentiment that, “The EU alone cannot replace the aid Ethiopia lost when former US President Donald Trump cut American support,” calling for a unified global effort to assist Ethiopia.
The EU’s potential lifting of visa restrictions on Ethiopia signifies a positive shift in diplomatic relations, facilitated by constructive dialogue. While there is interest in renewing financial aid and addressing ongoing conflicts in Ethiopia, concerns remain regarding human rights and the situation in the Amhara region. The EU’s call for international collaboration highlights the necessity for collective aid for Ethiopia’s recovery and stability.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
