Eritrean president, Norwegian minister discuss Sudan

ASMARA, Apr 26, 2005 (ERINA) — Eritrean President Isayas Afewerki today received and held talks with Norway’s minister for international cooperation, Hilde Frafjord Johnson.

The Norwegian minister explained to the president that she is visiting Eritrea to get acquainted with the Eritrean government’s views concerning the Sudanese peace process in which the government of Norway is involved. She said that her government took this move in view of Eritrea’s comprehensive understanding of issues on the Horn of Africa, especially Sudan.

President Isayas reiterated that Eritrea’s conviction that the Sudanese people themselves are the ones to tackle their affairs.

He went on to say that in order for the Sudanese peace process to move forward, the Naivasha Kenya agreement should be guaranteed. To this end, the president noted that other Sudanese political forces should be involved, and thereby work for a comprehensive settlement.

He pointed out that both the Sudanese government and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) should promote this objective and that the international community should strive to reinforce the peace process in Sudan.

Furthermore, President Isayas told the Norwegian minister that there should prevail continued consultations on this issue between the governments of Eritrea and Norway. Both sides said that they share common views regarding the issues discussed.