Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has highlighted the transformative impact of the Pretoria Agreement on the Tigray Region. He offered a compelling update on Ethiopia's journey toward lasting peace and national unity. His remarks, delivered with a clear vision for the nation, underscored not only the cessation of conflict but also a commitment to comprehensive recovery and dialogue.
"The Pretoria Agreement has brought palpable relief to Tigray," stated Prime Minister Abiy, emphasizing an end to the tragic daily loss of life and the establishment of a peaceful path forward. A key innovation of this agreement, he noted, is the strategic engagement of former combatants, a move designed to strengthen national unity. The region is already witnessing significant strides in normalcy, with essential services like telecommunications, banking, and air travel fully restored, breathing new life into communities.
While many displaced residents of Raya have successfully returned home, the Prime Minister acknowledged that returns to Wolkait are still in progress, reiterating the government's unwavering commitment to ensuring all displaced citizens are safely reintegrated. A cornerstone of the ongoing efforts is the rehabilitation and reintegration of former fighters, a priority that directly supports Tigray's interim administration and fosters long-term stability.
Despite these positive developments, Prime Minister Abiy cautioned against elements seeking to reignite conflict, attributing such misguided pushes to misunderstandings and false hopes of external intervention. He stressed that Tigray's true needs lie in peace and dialogue, not a return to war, urging religious leaders and elders to play a crucial role in preventing any escalation. "The government’s position is clear: we seek no conflict and aim to resolve issues without firing a single shot," he affirmed, calling on all Ethiopians, including the people of Tigray, to actively contribute to national dialogue and the pursuit of lasting peace.
This forward-looking agenda was further symbolized by a significant act of environmental stewardship. While addressing the House of People’s Representatives on the performance of the Ethiopian Year 2017 plan, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed personally planted Green Legacy seedlings on the parliamentary grounds. This act, a powerful visual representation of growth and future prosperity, served as a potent reminder for the public to remain steadfast in achieving this year's ambitious Green Legacy targets, seamlessly linking the nation's aspirations for peace with its commitment to a sustainable and thriving future.