AU urges Eritrea for an immediate withdrawal from Djiboutian territories

July 3, 2008 (ADDIS ABABA) — The African union peace and security council urged Eritrea to immediately and unconditionally pull-out from the Djiboutian territory of Ras Doumeira and Doumeira areas where Eritrean troops are still active.

In a communiqué the council issued after a report read by AU chairman, Jean Ping, the council strongly condemns Eritrea’s military actions against neighboring Djibouti and demanded an “urgent and unconditional” withdrawal from territories of Djibouti its military Occupies.

The council in a held in Egypt’s red sea resort of Charm -El Sheikh, has urged both countries to show maximum restraint, engage to dialogue and cooperate to efforts underway to solve the common crises.

Earlier last month, a statement released from Egyptian government said that, Eritrean forces have invaded areas of northern Djibouti leaving 12 Djiboutian solders killed and over 60 wounded.

A fact finding Mission of the commission sent to the two countries was refused from the Eritrean side.

The AU council has expressed its deep concern over Eritrea’s refusal to accept the mission and demanded cooperation.

The council reiterates the imperative need to respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of member states, as well as border existing on achievement f independence in conformity with the principles enshrined in the constitutive act of the African union and other relevant instrument.

(ST)