Statement by the Spokesperson on the swearing in of the Prime Minister of Ethiopia

The swearing in of Dr Abiy Ahmed Ali as new Prime Minister of Ethiopia concludes an orderly and peaceful transition. Dr Abiy Ahmed pledged in his inauguration speech to work towards democracy, rule of law and respect for civil liberties as well as to reach out to Eritrea.

The EU is looking forward to working closely with him on continued political and economic reforms, as it did with his predecessor Hailemariam Desalegn.

An inclusive dialogue with all Ethiopian stakeholders in the spirit of the Prime Minister's remarks as well as an early lifting of the State of Emergency, will further this process."