African Union clarifies it does not blame Egypt for Ethiopia crisis

Istanbul (ANTARA) - The African Union Commission stated on Sunday (4/10) that it does not intend to blame Egypt or any neighbouring country for the developments in Ethiopia, following Cairo’s protest against the body’s previous statements regarding regional tensions.

The Commission noted Egypt’s objections to its statement on 1 October, which urged Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Egypt to exercise maximum restraint, keep communication channels open, and resolve differences through diplomacy.

“Under no circumstances,” the statement said, “was this intended to assign responsibility for the developments in Ethiopia to any neighbouring country.”

According to the Commission, the call was issued following the expulsion of diplomats from Addis Ababa, Cairo, and Asmara, and aimed to prevent misunderstandings, escalation, or the widening of tensions that could threaten regional stability.

The Commission also reaffirmed its commitment to the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national unity of African Union member states, as well as the principle of non-interference in their internal affairs.

The Commission emphasised that its statements fall solely within its mandate to promote peace, security, and stability across the African continent and are not intended to comment on the domestic developments of member states.

On Saturday, Egypt protested the Commission’s statement. An official Egyptian source described it as an “incomprehensible attempt” to drag Cairo into Ethiopia’s internal affairs.

The African Union Commission stated that it pays particular attention to its relationship with Egypt, which it described as one of the founding members of the African Union and a key partner in promoting peace, security, integration, and development throughout Africa.