Eritrea announces departure from IGAD regional bloc
Eritrea has officially announced its withdrawal from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). This decision, communicated by the Eritrean foreign ministry on Fri, Oct 6, 2023, is based on claims that the East African regional bloc has…
Eritrea has officially announced its withdrawal from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). This decision, communicated by the Eritrean foreign ministry on Fri, Oct 6, 2023, is based on claims that the East African regional bloc has deviated from its original principles and has not effectively contributed to regional stability.
The withdrawal follows ongoing tensions with neighboring Ethiopia. Ethiopia has increased its calls for access to the Red Sea via Eritrea, which has led to heightened diplomatic disputes and concerns about potential armed conflict.
Eritrea, which gained independence from Ethiopia in 1993 after a prolonged struggle, previously exited IGAD in 2007 amid a border conflict with Ethiopia. Eritrea rejoined the bloc in 2023.
Eritrea has officially announced its withdrawal from the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).
The Intergovernmental Authority on Development expressed regret over Eritrea's withdrawal. IGAD noted that Eritrea had not been actively participating in the organization's meetings, programs, or activities.
Based on reporting by Africanews.
