The EU may lift visa restrictions on Ethiopia by May 2024, which complicated visa processes for Ethiopians. EU Ambassador Sophie Frommsberger noted improved relations post-conflict. The EU is also considering restoring financial aid, focusing on ongoing conflicts and human rights issues in Ethiopia.
The European Union is contemplating removing visa restrictions on Ethiopia by May 2024. These restrictions, enacted in April 2024, complicated visa procurement for Ethiopians, particularly affecting individuals with diplomatic and service passports who faced increased fees and longer wait times, extending from 15 to 45 working days.
EU Ambassador to Ethiopia, Sophie Frommsberger, noted an improving relationship between Ethiopia and the EU, stating, “Trust has been built to bring the Ethiopian government and the European Union… back on track through constructive dialogue.” This improvement follows Ethiopia’s prior failure to repatriate citizens who had their asylum applications rejected in Europe.
Currently, Ethiopian embassies in Europe are collaborating with the EU to address these repatriation concerns, with the ambassador highlighting, “It is on our agenda. The Ethiopian government… has shown great progress in accordance with international law.”
Additionally, the EU is contemplating restarting financial aid to Ethiopia, which was suspended due to the conflict in the northern region. While interest in re-establishing support exists, no final decision has been reached yet.
Ongoing conflict in Ethiopia’s Amhara region is another pressing concern for the EU. The ambassador emphasized the EU’s commitment to ending the fighting and facilitating negotiations among all involved parties. Furthermore, human rights issues in Ethiopia were also addressed at a recent UN meeting, reflecting the EU’s broader humanitarian interests.
The ambassador also highlighted that the EU cannot entirely substitute for the financial aid Ethiopia lost due to former U.S. President Trump’s withdrawal of American support, urging the international community to unite in assistance.
The EU is poised to reevaluate visa restrictions and aid for Ethiopia amid an evolving diplomatic relationship. With improved collaboration between Ethiopian officials and EU representatives, there is potential for significant policy changes, including the lifting of visa barriers and the resumption of financial support. Continuing conflict and human rights concerns remain crucial issues that the EU aims to address in partnership with the Ethiopian government and the broader international community.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
