Peace Agreement in Asmara : Ethiopian Government and ONLF

The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) signed peace agreement on 21 October in Asmara.

The agreement included that the two sides end hostilities towards each other, that the ONLF to pursue its political activities in Ethiopia through peaceful means as well as to establish joint committee to further discuss substantive issues.

The document was signed by Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, Minister of Foreign Affairs, on the Ethiopian side and by Admiral Mohammed-Omar Osman, Chairman of ONLF.

Indicating that the ONLF has been conducting armed struggle for 34 years, Dr. Workneh said that the decision it made to pursue its political activities inside the country through peaceful means is historic.

The Chairman of the front, Admiral Mohammed-Omar on his part said that they reached the decision encouraged by the new positive development in Ethiopia and expressed commitment to ensure sustainable peace and development in the Somali region as well as to contribute its part in the peace process in Ethiopia.

Mr. Ahmed Shide, Minister of Finance of the FDRE, on his part indicating that Ethiopia is in a transition stage, said that the peace agreement will have significant contribution in ensuring peace and prosperity in the country.