Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Abiy Ahmed.

The two prime ministers discussed the ongoing conflict in northern Ethiopia.

Prime Minister Trudeau underscored the importance of all parties working toward a political solution and an inclusive national dialogue to bring the conflict to a peaceful resolution. He highlighted the diplomatic efforts by African Union High Representative for the Horn of Africa region, Olusegun Obasanjo, who is working with all parties to negotiate a cessation of hostilities.

The Prime Minister emphasized the need to respect human rights, and to ensure unhindered humanitarian access and delivery of humanitarian assistance to those affected by the conflict. He also expressed concern about the rise of hate speech and inter-ethnic tensions.

The two leaders committed to staying in touch and Prime Minister Trudeau reinforced Canada’s strong and ongoing commitment to supporting efforts to bring a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Associated links

• Canada-Ethiopia Relations
• Minister of Foreign Affairs speaks with Chairperson of African Union Commission
• Canada withdraws Canadian embassy staff’s dependants and non-essential personnel from Ethiopia
• Statement by Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of International Development on release of investigation report on atrocities in the Tigray region in Ethiopia
• Canada announces new assistance for those affected by conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region