In his replay letter to the Eritrean Minister, Ping clearly stated that Ethiopia should never been accused for Eritrea’s denial using its rights to take part in AU deliberation.

Ping said the commission has discussed the issues with government of Ethiopia at highest level and has accepted a categorical assurance that the Eritrean government is free to establish a mission to the AU in Addis Ababa.

The chairperson said Ethiopia has never banned Eritrea from AU sessions and in other deliberations in Addis Ababa.  

In international practice, he said, countries which do not have relations with the USA but which have missions to the UN are carrying out their diplomatic missions.

The chairperson indicated that the former chairperson had also informed Eritrea that it has the right to participate in AU sessions in Addis Ababa.  

Ping referred terms conveyed by the former Chairperson to the Eritrean government that its mission will be accredit only to the African Union, will not have or carry out bilateral activities and the staff will operate from Addis Ababa only where the AU headquarters is located.

The chairperson clearly stated the Ethiopia assures the necessary entry visa and security of any Eritrean delegation.  

Ping said Eritrea foreign minister’s letter and AU’s reply were circulated among delegates of the AU Member States during the 14th African ordinary session.

The chairperson called on Eritrean government to establish its mission to the AU and attend AU meetings convening in Addis Ababa with out delay or hindrance. (ENA)