The EU may lift visa restrictions on Ethiopia by May 2024, as relations improve. Visa fees and processing times have been issues, but recent dialogues signal progress. Concurrently, the EU is also reviewing financial aid, amid concerns over human rights and conflict in the Amhara region.
The European Union (EU) is contemplating the removal of visa restrictions on Ethiopia, targeting a potential implementation date in May 2024. Originally instated in April 2024, these restrictions complicated the visa application process for Ethiopians, notably increasing processing times from 15 working days to 45 and applying fees to holders of diplomatic and service passports.
Sophie Frommsberger, the EU Ambassador to Ethiopia, highlighted improvements in the bilateral relationship, indicating that the dialogue between Ethiopia and the EU is gaining positive momentum. She emphasized the importance of rebuilding trust, particularly following strained relations caused by conflicts in northern Ethiopia.
The initial visa restrictions were enforced due to Ethiopia’s failure to repatriate its citizens whose asylum claims were denied in Europe. However, recent collaborative efforts between Ethiopian embassies in Europe and the EU show promise in resolving these issues. Frommsberger remarked, “It is on our agenda. The Ethiopian government, together with Ethiopian embassies in Europe, has shown great progress in accordance with international law.”
In addition to visa considerations, the EU is deliberating the resumption of financial aid to Ethiopia, which was suspended due to the northern conflict. Although there is a willingness to reinstate support, no definitive conclusion has been reached at this point.
Amid these discussions, the ongoing conflict in the Amhara region remains a significant concern for the EU. The ambassador reiterated the EU’s call for an immediate cessation of hostilities and for all conflicting parties to engage in negotiations. Furthermore, at a recent UN meeting, the EU raised issues regarding human rights abuses in Ethiopia. Frommsberger stated that the EU cannot fully substitute for the aid previously received from the United States and urged for an international coalition to assist Ethiopia effectively.
The EU is considering lifting visa restrictions on Ethiopia as relations improve following conflicts in the region. Diplomatic discussions indicate progress in resolving citizen repatriation issues and suggest a potential revival of financial aid. However, the ongoing conflict in the Amhara region and human rights concerns remain prevalent, highlighting the EU’s call for broader international support.
Original Source: globalsouthworld.com
