The African Union has called on Ethiopia, Eritrea and Egypt to exercise restraint and avoid actions or statements that could further escalate tensions and threaten peace and stability in the region.
In a statement issued late Thursday, the African Union Commission urged the three countries to resolve their differences through diplomatic channels and peaceful dialogue.
“The Commission urges the three countries to address their differences through established diplomatic channels and peaceful dialogue,” it said.
The appeal followed a series of diplomatic measures between Ethiopia, Eritrea and Egypt that have heightened concerns over relations among the three neighbouring countries.
Ethiopia Orders Eritrean Diplomats to Leave
Ethiopia on Thursday ordered the closure of its embassy in Eritrea and declared 10 Eritrean diplomats persona non grata, effectively requiring them to leave the country.
The decision prompted Eritrea to sever diplomatic relations with Ethiopia, further escalating tensions between the two countries.
Ethiopia also declared an Egyptian diplomat persona non grata and ordered him to leave the country within 48 hours.
Egypt responded by declaring an Ethiopian embassy counsellor persona non grata and giving the official 48 hours to leave the country.
The rapid exchange of diplomatic expulsions has added to existing tensions involving the three countries.
AU Calls for Diplomatic Resolution
The African Union Commission said the latest developments underscored the need for restraint and direct engagement rather than measures that could deepen regional divisions.
The continental body called on Ethiopia, Eritrea and Egypt to use existing diplomatic mechanisms to address their disputes and prevent further deterioration in relations.
The appeal comes as the diplomatic dispute raises fresh concerns about stability in the Horn of Africa and the wider region.
