The 2018 Ethiopian-Eritrean Peace Summit: A Diplomatic Triumph Ushering in a New Era of Regional Cooperation

For decades, the relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea was strained by years of conflict and mistrust. Following the Eritrean War of Independence, which ended in 1991, border disputes flared into open warfare between 1998 and 2000. A stalemate ensued, characterized by a tense military presence along the shared border and frosty diplomatic relations. This prolonged period of animosity not only hampered development but also destabilized the wider Horn of Africa region.

Then, in July 2018, something extraordinary happened. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed extended an olive branch to Eritrea, initiating unprecedented talks aimed at reconciliation. This move, driven by Abiy’s vision for a peaceful and prosperous Ethiopia, resonated deeply with Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki.

The summit, held in Asmara, the capital of Eritrea, on July 8th, 2018, was a monumental event. The world watched with bated breath as Abiy and Afwerki embraced warmly, signaling a historic thaw in relations. This seemingly simple gesture carried immense weight, marking the beginning of a new chapter for both nations.

The summit’s success can be attributed to several factors:

• Abiy Ahmed’s Courageous Leadership: Abiy’s willingness to break from the past and embrace dialogue was crucial. He recognized that continued animosity served neither country and boldly pursued peace.

• Mutual Desire for Peace and Stability: Both Ethiopia and Eritrea yearned for an end to the conflict. The prolonged standoff had inflicted significant economic and social costs, making reconciliation a shared priority.

• International Support: The international community, including regional organizations like the African Union, played a crucial role in facilitating the peace process. Their support provided legitimacy and encouraged both sides to engage constructively.

The 2018 Ethiopian-Eritrean Peace Summit yielded significant results:

• Establishment of Diplomatic Relations: Ethiopia and Eritrea formally re-established diplomatic relations, paving the way for increased cooperation and communication.

• Opening of Borders: The border between the two countries was reopened after being closed for almost two decades, facilitating trade and movement of people.

• Confidence-Building Measures: Both sides agreed to implement a series of confidence-building measures, including the exchange of prisoners of war and the joint demarcation of the border.

• Regional Stability: The peace agreement had far-reaching consequences for regional stability. It helped reduce tensions in the Horn of Africa, paving the way for greater cooperation between neighboring countries.

The impact of the summit continues to be felt today:

Beyond the tangible outcomes, the 2018 Ethiopian-Eritrean Peace Summit represented a profound shift in mindset. It demonstrated that even long-standing conflicts can be resolved through dialogue and compromise.

The event also highlighted the transformative power of leadership. Abiy Ahmed’s bold vision for peace and his unwavering commitment to reconciliation played a pivotal role in bringing about this historic transformation.

As we reflect on this momentous occasion, it is crucial to recognize that lasting peace requires continuous effort and commitment from both sides. Building trust and addressing underlying issues will be ongoing processes. Yet, the 2018 Ethiopian-Eritrean Peace Summit stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that even the most deeply entrenched conflicts can be overcome through diplomacy and goodwill.

The success story also underscores the importance of international cooperation in supporting peacebuilding efforts.

While challenges remain, the summit has set a precedent for peaceful resolution of conflicts not just in the Horn of Africa but across the world. It serves as a powerful reminder that even seemingly insurmountable obstacles can be overcome when leaders choose the path of dialogue and reconciliation.