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ANNEXStatement of the Cabinet of Ministersof the Government of EritreaThe Cabinet of Ministers of the Government of Eritrea has held a meeting in Asmaratoday, Thursday May 14, 1998, to consider the Statement issued by the Council ofMinisters of the Federal Democratic Government of Ethiopia which accuses Eritrea <strong>for</strong>inciting conflict <strong>an</strong>d hatred <strong>an</strong>d pursuing a policy of territorial exp<strong>an</strong>sion; condemnsEritrea alleging that its army has invaded Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> territory by crossing its borders; <strong>an</strong>dwarns that Ethiopia will take all the necessary measures to protect its territorial integrity.The Government <strong>an</strong>d people of Eritrea are greatly saddened by the tone <strong>an</strong>d contents ofthese grave accusations.The Cabinet of Ministers of the Government of Eritrea noted that there have been, <strong>an</strong>dcontinue to exist, border disputes in certain localities along the common borders betweenEritrea <strong>an</strong>d Ethiopia. These problems have been instigated by the unlawful practices ofthe Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> army which occasionally made incursions into these Eritre<strong>an</strong> territories;dism<strong>an</strong>tling the local administrative structures <strong>an</strong>d committing crimes against theinhabit<strong>an</strong>ts.But despite these periodic occurrences, the Cabinet asserted that the Government ofEritrea has been consistently endeavouring to resolve these recurrent problems throughbilateral negotiations with the Government of Ethiopia in a calm <strong>an</strong>d patient m<strong>an</strong>ner;cautious <strong>for</strong> not inflating the problem out of proportions <strong>an</strong>d incite <strong>an</strong>imosity between thetwo fraternal peoples. The Government of Eritrea has opted <strong>for</strong> this course of actionbecause it believes that the international boundary between Eritrea <strong>an</strong>d Ethiopia is veryclear <strong>an</strong>d incontroversial. Because it knows that the recurrent border incursions thatcontinue to be perpetrated by Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> <strong>for</strong>ces basically em<strong>an</strong>ate from the narrowperspectives of the Administrative Zones.The Cabinet of Ministers further noted that a Joint Committee had been <strong>for</strong>med from bothgovernments to resolve these problems <strong>an</strong>d to delineate on the ground the boundary line.The Cabinet of Ministers asserted that the Government of Eritrea has been exerting all thenecessary ef<strong>for</strong>ts to expedite the process <strong>an</strong>d facilitate the work of the Joint Committee.But on Wednesday, May 6, 1998, <strong>an</strong>d while the Eritre<strong>an</strong> delegation was on its way toAddis Abeba <strong>for</strong> a meeting of the Joint Committee to discuss ways <strong>an</strong>d me<strong>an</strong>s <strong>for</strong>accelerating its work, Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> army contingents that had already penetrated intoEritre<strong>an</strong> territory in the areas around Badme (south-western Eritrea) opened fire <strong>an</strong>dcaused grave damage on Eritre<strong>an</strong> units that attempted to approach them <strong>for</strong> dialogue.This unprovoked attack subsequently triggered a cycle of clashes in the area.Furthermore, while continued talks were underway to resolve the tension provoked by thefirst attack, <strong>an</strong> appalling Statement aimed at sending <strong>an</strong> unnecessary message to the


peoples of both countries <strong>an</strong>d the international community was issued by the Council ofMinisters of the Federal Democratic Government of Ethiopia.The Cabinet of Ministers re-iterates its firm belief that the enduring mutual interests thatexist <strong>an</strong>d bind together the peoples of Eritrea <strong>an</strong>d Ethiopia c<strong>an</strong>not be jeopardised by <strong>an</strong>yborder dispute. The Cabinet of Ministers accordingly proposes the following frameworkas a solution to the problem that has been made to be blown out of proportions <strong>an</strong>dderailed from its path.The Government of Eritrea condemns the logic of <strong>for</strong>ce as it firmly knows <strong>an</strong>dupholds that border disputes of <strong>an</strong>y kind c<strong>an</strong> only be resolved through peaceful <strong>an</strong>d legalme<strong>an</strong>s; <strong>an</strong>d not through military me<strong>an</strong>s.On the basis of this principle, each party shall publicly <strong>an</strong>nounce to the peoples ofEritrea, Ethiopia <strong>an</strong>d the international community the territories that it claims - if <strong>an</strong>y -<strong>an</strong>d designate them on the political map with clear geographical co-ordinates. Each partyshall also accept that the dispute c<strong>an</strong>not, <strong>an</strong>d should not be, resolved by <strong>for</strong>ce but throughpeaceful negotiations.Both parties shall agree that all negotiations <strong>an</strong>d underst<strong>an</strong>dings that will be conductedhence<strong>for</strong>th shall be carried out in the presence <strong>an</strong>d through the mediation of a ThirdParty. The latter will act as witness <strong>an</strong>d guar<strong>an</strong>tor.Areas under "dispute" shall be demilitarised temporarily <strong>an</strong>d be free from the presenceof armies of both countries. The en<strong>for</strong>cement of this underst<strong>an</strong>ding shall be guar<strong>an</strong>teedby the Third party.5. If the above proposal <strong>for</strong> resolving the dispute through the involvement of a ThirdParty <strong>an</strong>d without further complications is not acceptable, the matter to be referred tointernational adjudication.The Government of Eritrea firmly believes that attempts to inflate the minor <strong>an</strong>dtemporary problem that has been created along the borders of the two sisterly countrieswill not serve the fundamental interests of the Eritre<strong>an</strong> <strong>an</strong>d Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> peoples. TheGovernment of Eritrea pledges that it will, as ever be<strong>for</strong>e, spare no ef<strong>for</strong>ts to h<strong>an</strong>dle thepresent problem with the requisite patience <strong>an</strong>d responsiblity. It does not, accordingly,see <strong>an</strong>y wisdom in precipitating tension through inflammatory campaigns.The Government of Eritrea there<strong>for</strong>e calls upon the Government of Ethiopia to pursue asimilar path that will promote the interests <strong>an</strong>d good neighbourliness of the peoples ofboth countries. The Cabinet of Ministers of the Government of Eritrea further reassertsits belief that the peoples of Eritrea <strong>an</strong>d Ethiopia will maintain <strong>an</strong>d preserve their mutualinterests rooted in peace, good neighbourliness <strong>an</strong>d co-operation.Asmara, May 14, 19982


A togxExcellencies,Allow me to express my Government's profound gratitude to theGovernment of Kenya <strong>for</strong> taking the initiative at this critical moment toconvene this august meeting,Somalia is at cross roads today. Misguided policies by external actorscoupled with political imprudence by key Somali political <strong>for</strong>ces couldpotentially exacerbate the situation <strong>an</strong>d plunge the country into <strong>an</strong>intractable abyss that is by far worse th<strong>an</strong> the turmoil of the past 15 years. Ifthis is allowed to occur, its implications <strong>for</strong> regional peace <strong>an</strong>d security willindeed be grave in addition to the immense suffering that it would entail tothe Somali people.But this bleak situation need not occur in the first place. It c<strong>an</strong>, <strong>an</strong>d shouldbe, avoided. In our view, this c<strong>an</strong> only happen through i) <strong>an</strong> internalpolitical process that is constructive <strong>an</strong>d serious; <strong>an</strong>d ii) external facilitation<strong>an</strong>d support that is prompted by motives that have the security <strong>an</strong>d stabilityof Somalia <strong>an</strong>d the welfare of its peoples at heart.We must recognize that the current crisis is the derivative of multi-faceted<strong>an</strong>d cumulative underlying causes. For the past 15 years, Somalia hasbecome ensnared in a spiral of internecine conflicts, intractable cl<strong>an</strong>cleavages, <strong>an</strong>d, the chronic rivalry of warlords with ever-shifting alli<strong>an</strong>cesresulting in the fragmentation of central political authority <strong>an</strong>d thebalk<strong>an</strong>ization of the Central State. These long years of chaos <strong>an</strong>d immensesuffering contrast sharply with decades of signific<strong>an</strong>t socio-economicprogress <strong>an</strong>d nation building that Somalia enjoyed until the 1990s in acountry unique in Africa <strong>for</strong> its ethnic <strong>an</strong>d cultural homogeneity. Perceivedgeopolitical considerations by major powers, military involvement ofexternal <strong>for</strong>ces, misrepresentation of Somali political realities in theaftermath of September 11, <strong>an</strong>d the failure of several peace initiatives havefurther compounded the internal commotion. The crisis that we seeunfolding today is the byproduct of all these complications. Collective orindividual initiatives that will be taken to promote enduring peace <strong>an</strong>dstability in Somalia must accordingly address the parameters outlined belowif they are to bear fruit.1. External Military Intervention: Any external military interventionwill further polarize the political realities of Somalia <strong>an</strong>d induce


greater conflagration. Ethiopia's military intervention, underwhatever guise or justification, is particularly d<strong>an</strong>gerous both <strong>for</strong>reasons of historical <strong>an</strong>imosity <strong>an</strong>d because of the events of the pastfew years. Ethiopia must there<strong>for</strong>e cease its intermittent militaryintervention <strong>an</strong>d withdraw the <strong>for</strong>ces that it has deployed in the pastfew days.Linkages with International Terrorism: The portrayal ofdevelopments in Somalia in terms of the global war on terrorism isfactually untenable <strong>an</strong>d politically imprudent. The overarchingnational cause of the Somali people should not indeed be reduced toor lumped together with this singular concern. It must beacknowledged that external support to the warlords under the rubric offighting terrorism was a factor of complication. Some regional <strong>an</strong>dlocal actors have also found this portrayal convenient to camouflageother ulterior motives.Lifting of Arms Embargo: A recent call by some <strong>for</strong>ces <strong>for</strong> aselective lifting of the UN embargo on arms is unbal<strong>an</strong>ced, misguided<strong>an</strong>d fraught with d<strong>an</strong>gerous consequences. Indeed, this c<strong>an</strong> onlyimperil the political process of reconciliation <strong>an</strong>d durable politicalarr<strong>an</strong>gement in Somalia. Appropriate adjustments c<strong>an</strong> becontemplated when there is irreversible progress in the politicalarr<strong>an</strong>gement giving rise to national institutions that have crediblelegitimacy <strong>an</strong>d popular support.Political Processes of National Reconciliation: The dauntingproblem in Somalia is essentially <strong>an</strong> internal political problem thatmust be solved through negotiations between Somali political <strong>for</strong>ces.The role of IGAD <strong>an</strong>d our partners in peace must be focused onfacilitating <strong>an</strong>d <strong>promoting</strong> these negotiations through appropriate<strong><strong>for</strong>um</strong>s <strong>an</strong>d mech<strong>an</strong>isms.Territorial Disputes: The current situation in Somalia is raising thespecter of territorial claims <strong>an</strong>d disputes between Somalia <strong>an</strong>d itsneighbours. Territorial disputes <strong>an</strong>d claims c<strong>an</strong> only be settled bystrict adherence to the s<strong>an</strong>ctity of colonial boundaries <strong>an</strong>d IGADshould adopt this st<strong>an</strong>ce firmly <strong>an</strong>d unequivocally.2


My Government believes <strong>an</strong>d sincerely hopes that IGAD c<strong>an</strong> foster a<strong>for</strong>ward-looking consensus around these five points at this meeting. We donot wish to engage in fruitless discourse of acrimony but let me conclude byfirmly rejecting all groundless accusations peddled against Eritrea in the pastfew months. As underlined in the previous Ministerial Meeting on Somalia,Eritrea has never seen Somalia as a proxy battlefield to settle scores withEthiopia. Grave as it may be, the border conflict with Ethiopia is a problembetween the two countries that c<strong>an</strong>not be played out in Somalia.Th<strong>an</strong>k you3


AA•vt-x 3Press ReleaseIn December 2006 Ethiopia invaded Somalia setting a d<strong>an</strong>gerous precedent in the region.Initially, the pretext <strong>for</strong> the invasion was to pre-empt, in the words of Ethiopia's PrimeMinister, the "Islamist threat" em<strong>an</strong>ating from Somalia. However, after it becameobvious that the casus belli would not hold water, the Prime Minister rec<strong>an</strong>ted to claimthat he sent his troops "upon the invitation" of the embattled "Tr<strong>an</strong>sitional FederalGovernment" of Somalia. Sadly, Ethiopia's aggression was abetted by the internationalcommunity, with the US sponsoring the "preemptive strike"; the UN refraining fromcondemning this gross violation of international law; the Afric<strong>an</strong> Union playing alongwith the "TFG invitation" claim; <strong>an</strong>d IGAD voicing support <strong>for</strong> Ethiopia's intervention.Ethiopia has now <strong>an</strong>nounced that it is seeking <strong>an</strong> "exit strategy" from Somalia aftercausing huge devastation to the country. But the tragic fact remains that thous<strong>an</strong>ds ofinnocent Somalis have perished <strong>an</strong>d over 500,000 civili<strong>an</strong>s <strong>for</strong>ced into exile or internaldislocation. Numerous towns <strong>an</strong>d villages were pulverized in indiscriminate aerialbombings; often in <strong>an</strong> appalling environment of total <strong>news</strong> blackout. The relativestability that Mogadishu had seen after years of chaos was disrupted by Ethiopia'sinvasion <strong>an</strong>d occupation; with the country as a whole descending in a downward spiral.The mayhem <strong>an</strong>d lawlessness that have gripped Somalia, including the proliferation ofpiracy with its d<strong>an</strong>gerous consequences <strong>for</strong> commercial maritime traffic in our region, areindeed deleterious consequences spawned by Ethiopia's invasion. Ethiopia's legalculpability in all these tragic developments c<strong>an</strong>not thus be whitewashed by its withdrawaltoday or through other tenuous expl<strong>an</strong>ations.While these are the indelible facts, Ethiopia's authorities continue to apportion blamehere <strong>an</strong>d there to duck principal responsibility. At times, it is the "Tr<strong>an</strong>sitional FederalGovernment of Somalia which must assume responsibility <strong>for</strong> lack of commitment toclamp down the pirates...who are not fish who just spr<strong>an</strong>g out of the sea" (statementfrom Ethiopia's Foreign Minister). At other times, Ethiopia's authorities seek to make ascapegoat of Eritrea in their usual, worn-out, campaign of vilification <strong>an</strong>d disin<strong>for</strong>mation;(recent statement by Ethiopia's Prime Minister).Even at this late hour, the enduring solution to Somalia's myriad problems rests on threefundamental pillars. First off, external military intervention, under <strong>an</strong>y pretext or label,will not mitigate but only exacerbate the turmoil that has gripped Somalia. Secondly, itmust be recognized that the various schemes of Balk<strong>an</strong>izing <strong>an</strong>d fragmenting Somaliainto fragile mini-States will continue to be a recipe <strong>for</strong> continuous conflict. Thirdly <strong>an</strong>dmost import<strong>an</strong>tly, Somalis must be allowed to pursue the objective of nationalreconstitution through their own devices.Ministry of Foreign AffairsAsmara4 December 2008


A Ni•-) CX )---iADDRESS OFTHE FOREIGN MINISTER OF ERITREAH.E. OSMAN SALEHATTHE ISTANBUL CONFERENCE ON SOMALIAISTANBUL, TURKEY21-23 MAY 2010Mr. Chairm<strong>an</strong>Honourable Heads of State <strong>an</strong>d GovernmentDistinguished DelegatesLadies <strong>an</strong>d Gentlemen,Let me first th<strong>an</strong>k the Secretary General of the United Nations <strong>an</strong>d our gracious host, thePrime Minister of the Republic of Turkey, <strong>for</strong> org<strong>an</strong>izing this import<strong>an</strong>t <strong><strong>for</strong>um</strong> to providethe opportunities <strong>an</strong>d augment the prospects of finding <strong>an</strong> enduring solution to the crisisthat has bedeviled Somalia <strong>for</strong> the past twenty years. In this spirit, allow me to restate in aconcise <strong>for</strong>m <strong>an</strong>d without going into details, the <strong>views</strong> of my Government in regard to thefundamental ingredients of a lasting settlement.First, there c<strong>an</strong> be no military solution to the conflict in Somalia. This is borne out by theexperience of two decades of violent internal conflict as well as external militaryinterventions. The evidence is so overwhelming that it is difficult to argue against the basicpremise with <strong>an</strong>y conviction. And yet the notion that more money <strong>an</strong>d arms, better training<strong>an</strong>d a well org<strong>an</strong>ized military offensive c<strong>an</strong> bring ch<strong>an</strong>ge is still with us. Clearly thisapproach will lead to the intensification <strong>an</strong>d prolongation of the conflict, further death <strong>an</strong>d


destruction, <strong>an</strong>d as similar previous ef<strong>for</strong>ts, end in failure. Hence, the urge to once again godown a ruinous path must be strongly resistedSecond, the only real prospect <strong>for</strong> a lasting resolution of the Somali problem lies in <strong>an</strong>inclusive political process. This process should not exclude <strong>an</strong>y party, <strong>for</strong> success dem<strong>an</strong>dsthat it brings on board all the critical actors, the main protagonists in Somalia. Obviously,this will be a difficult, complex <strong>an</strong>d drawn out process. But, since there is no workablealternative, it is imperative that we prioritize the political approach <strong>an</strong>d earnestly engageall the parties, with the aim of encouraging a political settlement.Third, two decades of experience has conclusively shown that a durable solution <strong>for</strong>Somalia c<strong>an</strong> only be the outcome of a Somali owned <strong>an</strong>d driven process, one that respectsthe choice of the Somali people. Again, this will be difficult to achieve, but it is the only wayout of this crisis. External facilitators c<strong>an</strong> help, but they must remember that their role isonly supportive <strong>an</strong>d focused on enh<strong>an</strong>cing the environment <strong>for</strong> Somalis to sort out theirproblems <strong>an</strong>d find arr<strong>an</strong>gements that they c<strong>an</strong> live with in peace <strong>an</strong>d stability.Excellencies,Intractable as it may seem, the Somali problem c<strong>an</strong> <strong>an</strong>d will be solved. I hope that thistimely <strong><strong>for</strong>um</strong> will spark honest discussion <strong>an</strong>d fresh ideas <strong>an</strong>d will be followed up bysustained <strong>an</strong>d constructive ef<strong>for</strong>ts, thereby making a signific<strong>an</strong>t contribution to theachievement of peace <strong>an</strong>d stability to Somalia.I th<strong>an</strong>k you.


A AwExAsmara, 23 March 2007Dear Mr. President,As Your Excellency is closely monitoring the unfolding situation in Somalia,external interventions <strong>an</strong>d invasions continue to be perpetrated against theSomali people under various labels <strong>an</strong>d pretexts. These illegal acts arecontrary to, <strong>an</strong>d undermine, all the sincere <strong>an</strong>d intense ef<strong>for</strong>ts that have beenundertaken, including the commendable endeavours of Your Excellency, torelieve the Somali people from their predicaments <strong>an</strong>d to reconstituteSomalia. They are also pushing our region to a d<strong>an</strong>gerous alley.Against this backdrop of events, I believe that it is incumbent on us toshoulder our regional responsibilities <strong>an</strong>d to coordinate our ef<strong>for</strong>ts. In thisspirit, I am dispatching H.E. Minister Ahmed Haji Ali to convey to YourExcellency my thoughts on these matters <strong>an</strong>d to listen to Your wise counsel.Accept, Mr. President, the assur<strong>an</strong>ces of my consideration.Isaias AfwerkiHis ExcellencyIsmail Omar GuellehPresident of theRepublic of Djibouti


A NA( .x 6Press statementAfter 18 years of chaos <strong>an</strong>d deception, the trajectory of Somalia's journeyappears to be clearer th<strong>an</strong> ever be<strong>for</strong>e. Yet, seemingly benign ef<strong>for</strong>ts aimedat disrupting the journey continue without let up. It is there<strong>for</strong>e vital <strong>an</strong>dtimely to recoup <strong>an</strong>d highlight the critical issues <strong>an</strong>d dimensions of theproblem.For the last 18 years, external interferences <strong>an</strong>d invasion on the one h<strong>an</strong>d,<strong>an</strong>d acts of warlords with narrow interests on the other, have renderedme<strong>an</strong>ingless the de facto existence of a Somali State.Eighteen years of vacuum has wreaked immeasurable devastation <strong>an</strong>dsuffering on the people of Somalia. Furthermore, this has been, <strong>an</strong>dcontinues to constitute, one of the principal causes of instability in the Hornof Africa. It has not abated but seems to aggravate with time.The vacuum that has prevailed in Somalia <strong>for</strong> the last 18 years has not onlycreated conducive grounds <strong>for</strong> the perpetration of piracy <strong>an</strong>d b<strong>an</strong>ditry. But,these phenomena are being misconstrued to provide suitable pretexts <strong>for</strong>external interference <strong>an</strong>d to impede a genuine resolution.In the event, the only viable solution is the reconstitution of Somalia by theSomalis themselves <strong>an</strong>d the facilitation of <strong>an</strong> enabling environment <strong>for</strong>launching the process in earnest. All other alternatives, packaged under <strong>an</strong>ym<strong>an</strong>tle, will only corrode the potential opportunities <strong>an</strong>d aggravate thecomplexity. And above all, they will not have <strong>an</strong>y legitimacy <strong>for</strong> thefollowing simple <strong>an</strong>d clear reasons:In accord<strong>an</strong>ce with the Charter of the United Nations <strong>an</strong>d internationallaw, there exists only one, unitary, sovereign Somalia that has hoistedits flag. There is no other Somali entity. In the event, the UnitedNations <strong>an</strong>d its Security Council have no moral or legal authority torecognise <strong>an</strong>y other reality. The same applies to other international<strong>an</strong>d regional org<strong>an</strong>izations."Somalil<strong>an</strong>d", "Puntl<strong>an</strong>d" <strong>an</strong>d other "l<strong>an</strong>ds" may have emerged on thepolitical l<strong>an</strong>dscape as a result of well-known causes <strong>an</strong>d their obviousramifications. Nonetheless, endorsement of the phenomena under the


guise of stable "havens" <strong>an</strong>d keeping the matter in limbo whilepreventing the Somali people from resolving it in a m<strong>an</strong>ner of theirchoosing will only perpetuate their suffering <strong>an</strong>d exacerbate the chaos.The UN or its Security Council do not have the authority orresponsibility to recognize <strong>an</strong>d accept these dispersed "l<strong>an</strong>ds" outside,or against the will, of the Somali people.It is the right of, <strong>an</strong>d incumbent upon, the whole Somali people, todetermine the issues of "Somalil<strong>an</strong>d", "Puntl<strong>an</strong>d" or other l<strong>an</strong>ds, byexercising their free will during the process of reconstitution or in itsaftermath. This c<strong>an</strong>not be usurped by <strong>an</strong>y other party.Governments fabricated or installed externally under various labels of"tr<strong>an</strong>sition" outside the due process of law <strong>an</strong>d contrary to the wishesof the Somali people c<strong>an</strong>not be imbued with legitimacy <strong>an</strong>drecognition as the duly constituted Government of a sovereignSomalia. Furthermore, it must be acknowledged that these schemesonly hamper the opportunity <strong>for</strong> the people of Somalia to find earlysolutions besides aggravating the turmoil in the Horn of Africa region.External interventions carried out under <strong>an</strong>y name or pretext on behalfof illegitimate governments c<strong>an</strong>not have <strong>an</strong>y legal foundation. Theirprimary objective is in fact to precipitate the fragmentation of Somalia<strong>an</strong>d to <strong>for</strong>estall genuine ef<strong>for</strong>ts at finding a lasting solution. As such,they must be thwarted <strong>an</strong>d deplored.All schemes set in motion <strong>an</strong>d/or conferences convened in the nameof these illegal governments with the aim of legitimizing these illicitprocesses as 'fait accompli" c<strong>an</strong>not be acceptable as they are devoidof <strong>an</strong>y legality.The people <strong>an</strong>d Government of Eritrea do not have <strong>an</strong>y other st<strong>an</strong>ce orpolicy that deviates from these basic legal considerations <strong>an</strong>d concerns ofregional security. Unless they harbour other ulterior motives, <strong>an</strong>y otherpeople or Government would not, <strong>for</strong> that matter, have a differing st<strong>an</strong>ce onthis matter.Attempts at portraying the position <strong>an</strong>d policies of the people <strong>an</strong>dGovernment of Eritrea as prompted by allegi<strong>an</strong>ce to certain individuals aredeliberate acts of disin<strong>for</strong>mation that do not merit serious rebuttal.Moreover, groundless accusations of associating Eritrea with "terrorism" oras pursuing a "proxy war" em<strong>an</strong>ate from the same base motives of stiflingthe voice <strong>an</strong>d true st<strong>an</strong>ce of the people <strong>an</strong>d Government of Eritrea.


In the circumst<strong>an</strong>ces <strong>an</strong>d especially at this crucial time, the Government ofEritrea urges the UN <strong>an</strong>d its org<strong>an</strong>s to desist from taking unwarr<strong>an</strong>tedmeasures that exacerbate <strong>an</strong>d prolong the suffering of the Somali people;that maintain the existing vacuum <strong>an</strong>d limbo; <strong>an</strong>d that deepen the crisis inthe Horn of Africa.Ministry of Foreign AffairsAsmaraApril 10, 2009


ANNEX 7Eastern Sud<strong>an</strong> Peace AgreementIn the Name of Allah the Most Merciful <strong>an</strong>d Most PassionatePREAMBLEWHEREAS the Government of the Sud<strong>an</strong> (GoS) <strong>an</strong>d the Eastern Sud<strong>an</strong> Front (hereinafterreferred to as the "Parties) having met in Asmara, Eritrea, under the auspices of theGovernment of the State of Eritrea, as part of their ef<strong>for</strong>t to reach a just <strong>an</strong>d lasting settlementto the conflict in Eastern Sud<strong>an</strong>.


ANN EX 5Asmara, 7 November 2008H.E. Mr. Jorge UrbinaPresident of the Security CouncilUnited NationsNew YorkExcellency,The Government of Eritrea has learned that the UN Security Council ismulling over the options of issuing a "Presidential Statement or Resolution"against Eritrea in support of, <strong>an</strong>d to condone, the unfounded accusationslevelled by Djibouti.The irony of this drama c<strong>an</strong>not be overemphasized. As it may be recalled,the UN Security Council passed Resolution 1420 in September 2002requesting Ethiopia to dism<strong>an</strong>tle, within 30 days, its illegal settlements in<strong>an</strong>d occupation of, the sovereign Eritre<strong>an</strong> territory of Dembe Mengul inwestern Eritrea. Ethiopia ignored the Resolution <strong>an</strong>d the UN SecurityCouncil failed to take <strong>an</strong>y remedial action.Ethiopia continues to occupy the town of Badme <strong>an</strong>d other Eritre<strong>an</strong>territories in violation of fundamental tenets of international law. Ethiopia'sacts, which have been tolerated <strong>for</strong> the past six years by the UN SecurityCouncil, constitute a flagr<strong>an</strong>t breach of the Algiers Peace Agreement; <strong>an</strong>d,Articles 2.4 <strong>an</strong>d 33 of the UN Charter on the "non-use of <strong>for</strong>ce against theterritorial integrity of a Member State" <strong>an</strong>d the commitment of MemberStates to the "pacific settlement of disputes" respectively.And in April this year, Ethiopia has gone a step further to occupy <strong>an</strong>d deployoffensive weapons on the Eritre<strong>an</strong> part of Mount Musa Ali on the Ethiopia-Djibouti <strong>an</strong>d Eritrea junction.In view of these facts, why is the Security Council bracing today to takepunitive action against Eritrea on at best a putative <strong>an</strong>d at worst a


m<strong>an</strong>ufactured border dispute when it has kept mum <strong>for</strong> all these years onEthiopia's repetitive <strong>an</strong>d grave violations of international law that arefraught with plunging the region into <strong>an</strong>other cycle of violent confrontation?Eritrea is not, of course, in a position to explain this overly lopsided st<strong>an</strong>ce.Eritrea c<strong>an</strong> only emphasize that double-st<strong>an</strong>dards will further erode themorale authority of the UN Security Council <strong>an</strong>d contribute to greaterregional destabilisation.Isaias Afwerki2


A NNEX ctEthiopia calls <strong>for</strong> regime ch<strong>an</strong>ge in EritreaAbraham Fisseha, AfricaNews reporter in Addis Ababa, EthiopiaPosted on Wednesday 6 April 2011 - 09:25Ethiopia's Prime Minister, Meles Zenawi, on Tuesday call <strong>for</strong> regime ch<strong>an</strong>ge inEritrea <strong>an</strong>d accused <strong>an</strong> opposition party, Medrek, of pl<strong>an</strong>ning <strong>an</strong>d instigatingviolence in Ethiopia. Zenawi has also accused Egypt of backing Eritrea's ef<strong>for</strong>t todestabilize in that country."Ethiopia would not tolerate Eritre<strong>an</strong> government's destructive policy <strong>an</strong>ymore <strong>an</strong>d thecountry is <strong>for</strong>ced to ch<strong>an</strong>ge its policy from "passive defi<strong>an</strong>ce" to directly help Eritre<strong>an</strong>people topple the regime," Zenawi said while presenting <strong>an</strong> eight-month government'sper<strong>for</strong>m<strong>an</strong>ce report to parliament.According to the prime minister, Eritre<strong>an</strong> government has continued its attempt todestabilize Ethiopia by deploying terrorists <strong>an</strong>d home grown "destructive <strong>for</strong>ces", such asthe Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) <strong>an</strong>d Ogden National Liberation Front (ONLF), as wellas the Somalia extremists group, Al shabab.He further stated, "Until now, our strategy has been defending our sovereignty byspeeding up our development. Now, we found that we could not go <strong>an</strong>y longer withpassive defense. It's not possible to take passive defense as the only alternative.""There<strong>for</strong>e, we have to facilitate ways <strong>for</strong> Eritre<strong>an</strong> people to remove its dictatorialregime. We have no intention to jump into their country but we need to extend ourinfluence there. If Eritre<strong>an</strong> government tries to attack us, we will also respondproportionally," Meles added.The Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> Prime Minster brought to light how the Egypti<strong>an</strong>s are working with Eritrea1


to destabilize Ethiopia in order to hinder its decision to construct dam on the Nile.Meles told Parliament, "Recently, Eritrea is training <strong>an</strong>d deploying, Al shabab <strong>an</strong>d locallygrown destructive <strong>for</strong>ces to terrorize our country. But Egypt is the direct <strong>for</strong>ce behindthese destructive elements that back them.""In order to prevent <strong>an</strong>y development on Blue Nile River, Egypt <strong>an</strong>d Eritrea has createdtheir own front," he added.He, however, confirmed that that Ethiopia has no intention of invading Eritrea or openinga new war.Ethiopia Prime Minster told the country's Parliament that Egypt's a long time strategy isto destabilize Ethiopia <strong>an</strong>d so that c<strong>an</strong>not raise a voice about using the Nile.Meles Further pointed out that the current policy of backing Eritrea <strong>an</strong>d other terroristsgroup is part of it long time strategy that goes back to over 50 years.He stressed that the Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> people are not enemies of the Egypti<strong>an</strong> people <strong>an</strong>d hecalled on the people of Egypt to realize that the building of the dam is also beneficial tothem.Previously the Prime Minster in his speech at launching of the dam construction he toldthe audience that Ethiopia would welcome Egypt <strong>an</strong>d Sud<strong>an</strong> to join in construction at <strong>an</strong>ylevel if they wish to do so.Speaking about opposition <strong>for</strong>ces that are legally recognized, "The Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> governmentis neither blind nor deaf You don't have to think as if we did not know <strong>an</strong>ything," Melessaid adding that the government has refrained from releasing the list of detainees <strong>an</strong>dsuspected OLF members by police until the opposition parties did it."Now that the opposition has made public the list of the detainees, it me<strong>an</strong>s that theopposition is testifying that all OLF members who are detained are their members. Inother words, they proved by themselves that the opposition is the hiding place <strong>for</strong> OLF"."We even know that OLF members have been here with us <strong>for</strong> five years at this house(parliament). We knew everything, but we did not take them to court, as we did not havesubst<strong>an</strong>tial evidence. Now, the opposition parties have proved it those who are in custodyare their members," Meles told parliament.The opposition's party "Medrek, particularly Unity <strong>for</strong> Democracy <strong>an</strong>d Justice," isorchestrating to instigate violence <strong>an</strong>d protest in the country. However, he said I wouldlike the party to know that there is a price to pay."We would like to make it clear that the opposition c<strong>an</strong>not go long by being a cover of<strong>an</strong>ti-peace elements," he added.2


Meles W<strong>an</strong>ts Regime Ch<strong>an</strong>ge in Eritrea; Accuses Egypt, Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> 0... http://www.ezega.com/News/NewsDetails.aspx?Page=<strong>news</strong>&News...Ethiopia NewsEthiopia BreakingNewsEthiopi<strong>an</strong> PoliticsI GovernmentSociety [Education IHealthEthiopi<strong>an</strong> SportNewsEthiopi<strong>an</strong>Economy IBusinessGeneralEthiopi<strong>an</strong> NewsInternationalNewsAfric<strong>an</strong> NewsInternationalEthiopia BusinessNewsBusiness NewsFin<strong>an</strong>ce IInvestingEthiopi<strong>an</strong>TechnologyTechnologyCommunicationsComputersInventionsEthiopi<strong>an</strong> SportEthiopi<strong>an</strong>AthleticsFootballOtherEthiopi<strong>an</strong>EntertainmentEthiopi<strong>an</strong>CelebrityEthiopi<strong>an</strong> MusicEthiopi<strong>an</strong> TV &CinemaEthiopi<strong>an</strong> ArtsEthiopi<strong>an</strong>StatisticsEthiopi<strong>an</strong>InternationalEzega News ICommentaryNationalInternationalAfricaAddis NewsMeles W<strong>an</strong>ts Regime Ch<strong>an</strong>ge in Eritrea; Accuses Egypt, Ethiopi<strong>an</strong>OppositionBy Yonas AbiyeAddis Ababa, April 5, 2011 (Ezega.com) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi on Tuesday accusedMedrek of pl<strong>an</strong>ning <strong>an</strong>d instigating violence in Ethiopia.While presenting <strong>an</strong> eight month government's per<strong>for</strong>m<strong>an</strong>ce reportto parliament, Meles respondedto questions posed by Girma Seyfu, the sole opposition member of parliament, about the massarrest of opposition members."The Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> government is neither blind nor deaf. You don't have to think as if we did not know<strong>an</strong>ything," Meles said adding that the government has refrained from releasing the list ofdetainees<strong>an</strong>d suspected OLF members by police until the opposition parties did it."Now that the opposition have made public the list of the detainees, it me<strong>an</strong>s that the opposition is testifying that allOLF members who are detained are their members. In other words, they proved by themselves that the opposition isthe hiding place <strong>for</strong> OLF"."We even know that OLF members have been here with us <strong>for</strong> five years at this house (parliament). We kneweverything, but we didn't take them to court as we did not have subst<strong>an</strong>tial evidence. Now, the opposition parties haveproved it."Meles said to the country's lawmakers.The opposition's party Medrek, particularly Unity <strong>for</strong> Democracy <strong>an</strong>d Justice, is orchestrating to instigate violence <strong>an</strong>dprotest in the country. However, Meles did not give more details about the matter."We would like to make it clear that the opposition c<strong>an</strong>not go long by being a cover of <strong>an</strong>ti-peace elements," he added.Meles was also speaking about Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> new strategy on Eritrea.He told the parliament that Ethiopia would not tolerate Eritre<strong>an</strong> government's destructive policy <strong>an</strong>ymore <strong>an</strong>d thecountry is <strong>for</strong>ced to ch<strong>an</strong>ge its policy from "passive defi<strong>an</strong>ce" to directly help Eritre<strong>an</strong> people topple the regime.He, however, confirmed that Ethiopia has no intention of invading Eritrea or opening a new war.According to the prime minister, Eritre<strong>an</strong> government has continued its attempt to destabilize Ethiopia by deployingterrorists <strong>an</strong>d home grown "destructive <strong>for</strong>ces", such as the Oromo Liberation Front (OLF) <strong>an</strong>d Ogaden NationalLiberation Front (ONLF), as well as the Somalia extremists group, Al shabab.He underscored that "Until now, our strategy has been defending our sovereignty by speeding up our development.Now, we found that we c<strong>an</strong>not go <strong>an</strong>y longer with passive defense. It' is not possible to take passive defense as theonly alternative.""There<strong>for</strong>e, we have to facilitate ways <strong>for</strong> Eritre<strong>an</strong> people to remove its dictatorial regime. We have no intention tojump into their country but we need to extend our influence there. If Eritre<strong>an</strong> government tries to attack us, we will alsorespond proportionally," Meles added.Meles also criticized the Egypti<strong>an</strong> government's influence of what he said is Egypt'sbacking of Eritre<strong>an</strong> <strong>an</strong>d otherterrorists to encourage them to destabilize Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> as part of its long time strategy to deter Ethiopia's development onthe Nile river."Recently, Eritrea is training <strong>an</strong>d deploying, Al shabab <strong>an</strong>d locally grown destructive <strong>for</strong>ces to terrorize our country. ButEgypt is the direct <strong>for</strong>ce behind these destructive elements that back them," he told lawmakers. He added "In order toprevent <strong>an</strong>y development on Blue Nile River, Egypt <strong>an</strong>d Eritrea have created their own front."He also called on Egypti<strong>an</strong> people to realize that Ethiopia is not their enemy, citing that Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> newly pl<strong>an</strong> to buildthe gr<strong>an</strong>d dam on Nile river will also benefit the downstream countries.onas Abiye is Addis Ababa based reporter <strong>for</strong> Ezega.com . He c<strong>an</strong> be reached by sending emailhrough this <strong>for</strong>m.2 of 3 10/14/2011 8:30 AM


Ethiopia says to work <strong>for</strong> Eritrea regime ch<strong>an</strong>ge 1Reuters http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/04/21/us-ethiopia-eritrea-idU...Ethiopia says to work <strong>for</strong> Eritrea "regimech<strong>an</strong>ge"Recommend 6 recommendations. Sign Up to see what your mends recommend.By Aaron MaashoADDIS ABABA I Thu Apr 21, 2011 9:19am EDTWesttawNexrHear whatSus<strong>an</strong> <strong>an</strong>d others are sayingFull FocusEditor's choiceA selection of our best photos from the past 24 hours.Full ArticleFollow ReutersFacebook Twitter RSS YouTubeREADSoros: not a funder of Wall Street protests13 Oct 2011Problems plague Apple iCloud, i05 launch13 Oct 2011Apple C<strong>an</strong>'t Keep Up With Dem<strong>an</strong>d <strong>for</strong> iPhoneUpdates13 Oct 2011U.S judge says Samsung tablets infringeApple patents13 Oct 2011Senate Republic<strong>an</strong> jobs bill urges tax re<strong>for</strong>m<strong>an</strong>d cuts13 Oct 2011(Reuters) - Ethiopia declared openly Thursday that it Sharewill support Eritre<strong>an</strong> rebel groups fighting toShare thisoverthrow President Isaias Afewerki.EmailThe two countries have often traded harsh rhetoric since a 1998-2000border war killed some 80,000 people, but Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> Prime Minister MelesZenawi has until now ruled out confrontation.However, Addis Ababa warned last month it would take "all measuresnecessary" against its northern neighbor after accusing it of plotting to carryout bomb attacks inside Ethiopia during <strong>an</strong> Afric<strong>an</strong> Union summit inFebruary.Government officials have said the plot targeted a hotel where a number ofheads of state were staying during the summit, as well as other facilities.Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> Foreign Affairs Minister Hailemariam Desalegn accused Asmaraof working to destabilise his country <strong>an</strong>d topple the government in AddisAbaba."We have embarked ourselves on equal reaction, which is regime ch<strong>an</strong>ge(in Eritrea)," he told journalists."This regime ch<strong>an</strong>ge is not by invading Eritrea but by supporting the Eritre<strong>an</strong>people <strong>an</strong>d groups which w<strong>an</strong>t to dism<strong>an</strong>tle the regime. We are fullyengaged in doing so," Hailemariam said.Hailemariam did not disclose the extent of Addis Ababa's support, but a fewEritre<strong>an</strong> groups already operate from northern Ethiopia <strong>an</strong>d have stagedsporadic hit-<strong>an</strong>d-run attacks inside Eritrea in the past.Wednesday, some 1,600 Eritre<strong>an</strong> refugees gathered in Addis Ababa to call<strong>for</strong> democratic rule in their country, which thous<strong>an</strong>ds have fled in recentyears citing rights abuses.Authorities in Asmara were not immediately available <strong>for</strong> comment, butIsaias often dismisses <strong>for</strong>eign-based opponents as "puppets" acting underthe orders of <strong>for</strong>eign governments.Eritrea was part of Ethiopia until 1991 when rebel <strong>for</strong>ces led by Isaiasfought their way to secession following a 30-year liberation war.PrintRelated NewsU.S. sends dronesto Libya, battle rages<strong>for</strong> MisrataThu, Apr 21 2011Sarkozy tells Liby<strong>an</strong>rebels: "We will helpyou"Wed, Apr 20 2011U.N. says 20children killed inMisrataTue, Apr 19 2011Ethiopia keepingEgypt in dark on NiledamMon, Apr 18 2011Liby<strong>an</strong> rebels fearfresh attack onAjciabiyahSun, Apr 17 2011Analysis & OpinionDodd-Fr<strong>an</strong>k <strong>an</strong>d SECblaze new trail <strong>for</strong> creditratingsUS-Pakist<strong>an</strong> tiesbleeding America inAfgh<strong>an</strong>ist<strong>an</strong>Related TopicsWorld >tMeles <strong>an</strong>d Isaias were then allies leading separate rebel groups fighting <strong>for</strong>mer Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> dictatorMengistu Haile Mariam, but they have been foes ever since the border war.Eritrea has since become one of the world's most secretive nations <strong>an</strong>d has frosty relations withmost of the West including the United States, which it accused of siding with Ethiopia during itsborder war.DISCUSSED292Who's behind the Wail St. protests?The border conflict has yet to be resolved, with Ethiopia calling <strong>for</strong> a negotiated implementation of aboundary ruling, <strong>an</strong> approach Eritrea has ruled out.(Editing by George Obulutsa <strong>an</strong>d Paul Taylor)171Cali<strong>for</strong>nia governor signscontroversial "Dream Act"WORLDRecommend 6 recommendations. Sign tip to see what your friends recommend.145Alabama immigration law decried,applauded as some flee stateTweet this Link this Share this Digg this EmailReprints2 of 3 10/14/2011 8:27 AM


A NNEX toPRESS RELEASEStatement of the Government of Eritreaon the Award of the Claims CommissionOn Monday, 17 August 2009, the Eritrea Ethiopia Claims Commission("EECC") delivered its Final Awards regarding violations of internationallaw during the 1998-2000 border war. The EECC was established by Article5 of the Algiers Agreement, the same legal instrument that created theEritrea Ethiopia Boundary Commission ("EEBC") which rendered itsboundary Award in April 2002.Eritrea is well aware of interference that has impaired the administration ofjustice. Nonetheless, <strong>an</strong>d irrespective of the plausibility of the evidence <strong>an</strong>dlegal instruments invoked to arrive at the Award, the Government of Eritreaaccepts the Award of the Claims Commission without <strong>an</strong>y equivocation dueto its final <strong>an</strong>d binding nature under the Algiers Agreement. This is indeedconsistent with Eritrea's track record of respecting arbitration decisions thatem<strong>an</strong>ate from its treaty obligations.The Government of Eritrea expresses its profound gratitude to its legalcounsel who toiled extremely hard to compile the necessary evidence <strong>an</strong>d toadv<strong>an</strong>ce robust legal arguments in order to ensure justice.The legal filings have not yet been made public due to proceduralrequirements of confidentiality during the litigation process. Now that theAward has been <strong>an</strong>nounced, the Government of Eritrea intends to put allthese proceedings in the public domain <strong>for</strong> their judgmental <strong>an</strong>d educationalpurposes to posterity.Asmara18 August 2009


ANNEXEX 11IALGicks A G-REE 11ENT- 3 -In fulfilling their obligations under international hum<strong>an</strong>itari<strong>an</strong>law, including the 1949 Geneva Conventions, <strong>an</strong>d in cooperation with theInternational Committee of the Red Cross, the parties shall without delay,release <strong>an</strong>d repatriate or return to their last place of residence all otherpersons detained as a result of the armed conflict.The parties shall af<strong>for</strong>d hum<strong>an</strong>e treatment to each other'snationals <strong>an</strong>d persons of each other's national origin within theirrespective territories.Article 3In order to determine the origins of the conflict, <strong>an</strong> investigationwill be carried out on the incidents of 6 May 1998 <strong>an</strong>d on <strong>an</strong>y otherincident prior to that date which could have contributed fo amisunderst<strong>an</strong>ding between the parties regarding their common border,including the incidents of July <strong>an</strong>d August 1997.The investigation will be carried out by <strong>an</strong> independent, impartialbody appointed by the Secretary General of the OAU, in consultation withthe Secretary General of the United Nations <strong>an</strong>d the two parties.The independent body will endeavor to submit its report to theSecretary General of the OAU in a timely fashion.The parties shall cooperate fully with the independent body.'1*5. The Secretary General of the OAU will communicate a copy ofthe report to each of the two parties, which shall consider it in accord<strong>an</strong>cewith the letter <strong>an</strong>d spirit of the Framework Agreement <strong>an</strong>d the Modalities.


At Ex 12Expat Americ<strong>an</strong>s Living <strong>an</strong>d Working abroad: On the IRS Radarby Asher Rubinstein, EsqThere are millions of United States citizens who live <strong>an</strong>d work outside theUS. These non-resident citizens are still subject to IRS reportingrequirements, i.e., they must still file tax returns <strong>an</strong>d the Report of ForeignB<strong>an</strong>k <strong>an</strong>d Fin<strong>an</strong>cial Accounts (the "FBAR"), <strong>an</strong>d they are subject topayment of taxes on all income, including income earned abroad. The US,virtually alone among nations, imposes <strong>an</strong> extra-territorial tax regime,me<strong>an</strong>ing that US citizens, even if they live <strong>an</strong>d work overseas, must paytaxes on income earned offshore. The Americ<strong>an</strong> expat may be entitled tocredits <strong>for</strong> living abroad, <strong>an</strong>d may be able to deduct taxes paid to a <strong>for</strong>eigngovernment. Living <strong>an</strong>d working abroad do not mitigate one's US taxobligations.An Americ<strong>an</strong> expat might surmise that living abroad, he or she is farremoved from the IRS. The expat may be tempted to hide <strong>for</strong>eign income,<strong>an</strong>d not disclose <strong>an</strong> account in a <strong>for</strong>eign country, thinking that the the IRSwould never learn about income in a <strong>for</strong>eign country, <strong>an</strong>d a local account ata non-US b<strong>an</strong>k. However, that would be a serious risk. How might the IRSlearn about a <strong>for</strong>eign account, so far away <strong>an</strong>d seemingly off the Americ<strong>an</strong>radar?First, via the Qualified Intermediary (QI) Program, in effect since 2001.Under the Qualified Intermediary Program, <strong>for</strong>eign b<strong>an</strong>ks are obligated toshare in<strong>for</strong>mation with the IRS. Moreover, under IRS Announcement 2008-98, the <strong>for</strong>eign b<strong>an</strong>ks must now actively investigate <strong>an</strong>d report to the IRSwhether US persons (or entities controlled by US persons) are the owners ofthe account. M<strong>an</strong>y thous<strong>an</strong>ds of <strong>for</strong>eign b<strong>an</strong>ks are enrolled in the QIprogram. Not fulfilling their QI obligations would result in a lack of accessto correspondent b<strong>an</strong>ks in the US, effectively severing such b<strong>an</strong>ks frominternational fin<strong>an</strong>cial tr<strong>an</strong>sactions. The IRS also routinely audits r<strong>an</strong>dom<strong>for</strong>eign accounts at QI b<strong>an</strong>ks. And QI b<strong>an</strong>ks must also submit to externalauditors, who might also discover <strong>an</strong>d report non-compli<strong>an</strong>t accounts.Second, via "John Doe" summons issued by the US Department of Justice,approved by a US court <strong>an</strong>d then served upon a <strong>for</strong>eign b<strong>an</strong>k, requestingin<strong>for</strong>mation about US account holders. In 2002, courts approved John Doesummonses issued against credit card service comp<strong>an</strong>ies, <strong>an</strong>d the IRS


learned the identities of US persons accessing unreported <strong>for</strong>eign funds viacredit <strong>an</strong>d debit cards. In 2009, a federal court in Miami approved a JohnDoe summons against UBS, seeking account records of US persons withsupposedly "secret" Swiss b<strong>an</strong>k accounts. In settling the litigation thatensued, UBS agreed to turn over 10,000 names of Americ<strong>an</strong>s with accountsat UBS. Aside from the erosion of Swiss b<strong>an</strong>king secrecy, which itself is amonumental development, equally signific<strong>an</strong>t is that John Doe summonseswork, <strong>an</strong>d will be used against other b<strong>an</strong>ks <strong>an</strong>d fin<strong>an</strong>cial service providers,in other <strong>for</strong>eign countries.Third, via the "Hague Convention on the Service Abroad of Judicial <strong>an</strong>dExtra Judicial Documents in Civil <strong>an</strong>d Commercial Matters", pursu<strong>an</strong>t towhich a summons, inquiry, dem<strong>an</strong>d <strong>for</strong> in<strong>for</strong>mation or documents, from theIRS to <strong>an</strong> Americ<strong>an</strong>expat, c<strong>an</strong> be delivered <strong>an</strong>d served upon that expat in thecountry where he resides. It has recently been reported that the IRS has usedthe Hague Convention in issuing administrative subpoenas upon wealthyAmeric<strong>an</strong>s in Britain <strong>an</strong>d Switzerl<strong>an</strong>d.Fourth, via Tax In<strong>for</strong>mation Exch<strong>an</strong>ge (TIE) Agreements, which obligatethe <strong>for</strong>eign country to assist in both criminal <strong>an</strong>d civil tax investigations.Most countries have already signed a TIE with the US, including tax havenssuch as Liechtenstein <strong>an</strong>d Switzerl<strong>an</strong>d. Countries which have not yet signeda TIE are <strong>an</strong>ticipating being asked by the US to sign one. Not signing onewould, as noted above, ostracize the defi<strong>an</strong>t country from the internationalb<strong>an</strong>king system.Fifth, via a Mutual Legal Assist<strong>an</strong>ce Treaty (MLAT), which requires eachparticipating country to disclose in<strong>for</strong>mation - including b<strong>an</strong>k account data -to the U.S. government in connection with <strong>an</strong> investigation of a seriouscrime, including tax fraud. Treaty loopholes, such as what constitutes "taxfraud" under the laws of the <strong>for</strong>eign treaty country, have been effectivelyclosed by the successful U.S. attack on UBS <strong>an</strong>d Swiss b<strong>an</strong>king secrecy.The MLATs specify that local secrecy laws may not <strong>for</strong>m a basis <strong>for</strong>refusing to provide the requested in<strong>for</strong>mation.Sixth, if the account is at a b<strong>an</strong>k within the Europe<strong>an</strong> Union, or a b<strong>an</strong>koutside the EU that routes via Europe, then the account might already beunder the watch of the CIA pursu<strong>an</strong>t to the "Brussels Agreement", alsoknown as the "Swift Agreement". That agreement gives the CIA direct


access, upon dem<strong>an</strong>d, to b<strong>an</strong>k accounts held in the EU. While perhaps thissounds very "Big Brother" <strong>an</strong>d akin to conspiracy theory, such monitoringdoes exist <strong>an</strong>d was developed after the terrorist attacks on 9/11. The purposeof the Agreement is to investigate terrorism fin<strong>an</strong>ce, yet there is nolimitation to the extent of b<strong>an</strong>king in<strong>for</strong>mation to be shared, including withthe IRS.Finally, even assuming that none of the above are actual threats to a noncompli<strong>an</strong>texpat account (<strong>an</strong> assumption that would indeed be a huge leap offaith), the account is vulnerable to discovery if the expat ever wishes toaccess or use the <strong>for</strong>eign funds in <strong>an</strong>y way connected to the US. Shouldthe expat wish to move back to the US, accessing the account would raisered flags. If the expat wishes to buy real property in the US, or even investin US securities, the source of funds would be revealed. A wire tr<strong>an</strong>sferfrom the <strong>for</strong>eign account to a US b<strong>an</strong>k would likely trigger a SuspiciousActivities Report (SAR) from the recipient b<strong>an</strong>k to the IRS.It should be pointed out that none of these threats to a <strong>for</strong>eign account isdirected specifically against Americ<strong>an</strong> expats living abroad. Indeed, thesame threats apply to US residents with non-compli<strong>an</strong>t <strong>for</strong>eign b<strong>an</strong>kaccounts. It's not the location of the taxpayer which gives rise to the threat;it's the <strong>for</strong>eign account itself. Thus, whether the account holder is <strong>an</strong>Americ<strong>an</strong> living <strong>an</strong>d working overseas, or <strong>an</strong> Americ<strong>an</strong> living in the USwith <strong>an</strong> account offshore, both persons should be concerned about thelikelihood of the IRS discovering the account <strong>an</strong>d prosecuting the accountholder <strong>for</strong> not disclosing the account <strong>an</strong>d paying taxes on <strong>for</strong>eign income.Given these numerous threats to offshore account secrecy, what shouldthe expat (or indeed, the US resident) do to remedy a non-compli<strong>an</strong>t <strong>for</strong>eignaccount? First, the account holder should bring the account into compli<strong>an</strong>ce.This includes the proper disclosure, i.e., "checking the box" as to ownershipof a <strong>for</strong>eign account on IRS <strong>for</strong>m 1040, Schedule B, as well as <strong>an</strong>nualsubmission of the FBAR <strong>for</strong>m mentioned above (Treasury Department FormTD F 90-22.1). It also me<strong>an</strong>s, of course, reporting <strong>an</strong>d paying tax on all<strong>for</strong>eign income, including earnings, as well as interest <strong>an</strong>d gains in or to the<strong>for</strong>eign account. However, it must be noted that simply, <strong>an</strong>d suddenly,declaring a <strong>for</strong>eign account might give rise to the question of whether theaccount existed in prior years, in which case one would be alerting the IRSto past non-compli<strong>an</strong>ce. Thus, one must also address the question of whether


or not to make a voluntary disclosure to the IRS. A voluntary disclosurewould lead to paying past taxes, signific<strong>an</strong>t penalties <strong>an</strong>d interest, but wouldlikely avoid prosecution <strong>for</strong> criminal tax fraud, <strong>an</strong>d would make amends <strong>for</strong>past non-compli<strong>an</strong>ce <strong>an</strong>d allow <strong>for</strong> future compli<strong>an</strong>ce. The account holdermight also consider a legal strategy involving tr<strong>an</strong>sfer of the undeclaredaccount in return <strong>for</strong> a <strong>for</strong>eign <strong>an</strong>nuity <strong>an</strong>d establishment of <strong>an</strong> offshoretrust, which would accomplish asset protection, tax benefits <strong>an</strong>d future taxcompli<strong>an</strong>ce, but would not rectify past non-compli<strong>an</strong>ce <strong>an</strong>d thus thevoluntary disclosure option should again be considered.Foreign b<strong>an</strong>king tax compli<strong>an</strong>ce is crucial irrespective of where one lives,within the US or overseas. Non-compli<strong>an</strong>t <strong>for</strong>eign b<strong>an</strong>k accounts should bebrought into compli<strong>an</strong>ce. The possibilities of discovery of the account, asseen above, are m<strong>an</strong>y. Expat Americ<strong>an</strong>s living <strong>an</strong>d working abroad are asmuch on the radar as Americ<strong>an</strong>s living <strong>an</strong>d working <strong>an</strong>d b<strong>an</strong>king at home.


A NNE X_Viewing cable 06ADDISABABA2708, ETHIOPIA: RECENT BOMBINGSBLAMED ON OROMOSIf you are new to these pages, please read <strong>an</strong> introduction on the structure of a cable as well ashow to discuss them with others. See also the FAQsReference ID Created Released Classification Origin2006-10-06 2011-08-30 Embassy Addis06ADDISABABA2708 SECRET08:53 01:44 AbabaVZCZCXR01900PP RUEHROVDE RUEHDS #2708 2790853ZNY SSSSS ZZHP 060853Z OCT 06FM AMEMBASSY ADDIS ABABATO RUEHC/SECSTATE WASHDC PRIORITY 2771INFO RUCNIAD/IGAD COLLECTIVE PRIORITYRUEAIIA/CIA WASHINGTON DC PRIORITYRHMFISS/CJTF HOA PRIORITYRUEKDIA/DIA WASHINGTON DC PRIORITYRHEHNSC/NSC WASHDC PRIORITYRHMFISS/HQ USCENTCOM MACDILL AFB FL PRIORITYS E C R E T ADDIS ABABA 002708SIPDISSIPDISDEPARTMENT FOR AF/ELONDON, PARIS, ROME FOR AFRICA WATCHERE.O. 12958: DECL: 09/23/2016TAGS: PTER PEEL PGOV ET ERSUBJECT: ETHIOPIA: RECENT BOMBINGS BLAMED ON OROMOSPOSSIBLY THE WORK OF GOEClassified By: CHARGE VICKI HUDDLESTON FOR REASONS 1.4(b)AND(d).1. (S) SUMMARY A series of explosions were reported in AddisAbaba on September 16, killing three individuals. The GoE<strong>an</strong>nounced that the bombs went off while being assembled, <strong>an</strong>dthat the three dead were terrorists from the outlawed OromoLiberation Front (OLF) with links to the Oromo NationalCongress (ONC). An embassy source, as well as cl<strong>an</strong>destinereporting, suggests that the bombing may have in fact beenthe work of GoE security <strong>for</strong>ces. END SUMMARYU. (U) On September 16, three bomb explosions were reportedin the Kara Kore area of Addis Ababa. The explosions wereheard at 4:45 a.m., 7:00 a.m., <strong>an</strong>d 10:00 a.m. The NationalIntelligence <strong>an</strong>d Security Service (NISS), together with theFederal Police Anti-terror Task Force later reported that thebombs were "part of a coordinated terror attack by the OLF<strong>an</strong>d Sha'abiya (Eritrea) aimed at disrupting democratic


development." The NISS said that the intended terror plothad failed <strong>an</strong>d the bombs had mistakenly gone off while thesuspects were preparing them while hiding out at <strong>an</strong> illegallybuilt house. Two of the suspects died immediately, while<strong>an</strong>other died on the way to the hospital. One other is incritical condition. The police task <strong>for</strong>ce reported havingothers in custody related to the plot <strong>an</strong>d that evidence showsthe terrorists had ties to Oromo groups - the Mecha <strong>an</strong>dTulema Association (MTA) <strong>an</strong>d the ONC. They also said thatthe bombs used contained parts sourced from Eritrea <strong>an</strong>d wereconsistent with bombs used in previous terrorist attacks.(S) On September 20, Dr. Merera Gudina (strictly protect),the <strong>for</strong>mer leader of the ONC (<strong>an</strong>d a typically reliablein<strong>for</strong>mation source), contacted Post to report that thedeceased had not died not while constructing a bomb, butrather at the h<strong>an</strong>ds of GoE cadres. Dr. Merera said that themen had been picked up by police a week prior, kept indetention <strong>an</strong>d tortured. He said police then left the men ina house <strong>an</strong>d detonated explosives nearby, killing 3 of them.He did not indicate whether the men were ONC or OLFaffiliated.(S) Cl<strong>an</strong>destine reporting indicates that the bombs did notexplode inside the structure, but rather appear to have beenplaced outside <strong>an</strong>d detonated.HUDDLES TON


A N' I`-i cX ILA AColonel Gemechu Ay<strong>an</strong>aNewsStatement by Firizidier General Irlailu Gonfa <strong>an</strong>d Colonel Gemechu Av<strong>an</strong>aUntil a few days ago. we were officers in the Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> army sworn to protect the country's laws <strong>an</strong>d diversepeople from <strong>an</strong>y threats. To our deepest dismay. we have come to the conclusion that the greatest threat toEthiopia <strong>an</strong>d the people em<strong>an</strong>ates not from elsewhere but from the regime on power. Over the last years, thearmed <strong>for</strong>ces have been systematically reduced to protecting the narrow interest of a small clique determined tocling to power at all costs. Under the circumst<strong>an</strong>ces the choices confronting us are: Either to remain with thesame oppressive machinery or wait <strong>an</strong>d see hoping against hope that things would improve on their own orthrough a miracle. We have waited too long: we c<strong>an</strong>not wait <strong>an</strong>y longer.Despite the calls by opposition groups to peacefully deal with the dire situation. EPRDF is showing noinclination whatsoever to address the country's mounting social, economic <strong>an</strong>d political problems. instead, it isintensifying repression. Even though this repressive machinery did not spare <strong>an</strong>y people in the country, themagnitude <strong>an</strong>d scale of repression. harassment <strong>an</strong>d intimidation committed against Oromo people has nocomparison. Moreover, it is considering new military adventures in the region that would not serve thelegitimate interests of all affected --<strong>an</strong>d could plunge the region into chaos .Throughout the years we served this regime. we were hoping things would improve over time <strong>an</strong>d expected theregime would also resolve political conflicts peacefully <strong>an</strong>d truly democratize the country where political powerem<strong>an</strong>ates from the will of the people not from <strong>for</strong>ce. Now we have found this to be <strong>an</strong> empty promise. We areparticularly elated that the Alli<strong>an</strong>ce <strong>for</strong> Freedom <strong>an</strong>d Democracy (AFD) has offered a hope not only to eliminatethe specter of more mayhem but also chart a better future through a process of dialogue involving allstakeholders in the search <strong>for</strong> comprehensive solutions.We regret that the regime has flagr<strong>an</strong>tly, <strong>an</strong>d without serious consideration, rejected this offer of goodwill <strong>an</strong>dcontinued on its path of destruction. We c<strong>an</strong>not there<strong>for</strong>e continue to defend a minority <strong>an</strong>d overwhelminglyrejected regime, sadly. that is committing untold atrocities against our own people.It is time <strong>for</strong> us to take side in the tight between ty ninny <strong>an</strong>d liberty. Accordingly. we have dissociatedourselves from TPLF/EPRDF <strong>an</strong>d joined the liberation struggle of our people gripped by the claws of tyr<strong>an</strong>ny.We have there<strong>for</strong>e joined the Oromo Liberation Front that is a member of the Alli<strong>an</strong>ce <strong>for</strong> Freedom <strong>an</strong>dDemocracy (AFD) to realize the age-old dream of all peoples <strong>for</strong> freedom <strong>an</strong>d democracy.To the Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> Armed ForcesThe incumbent regime has been fooling us all by falsely extolling its commitment to freedom. democracy <strong>an</strong>dspeedy economic development. This commitment has been put to test over the last 15 years. The tyr<strong>an</strong>nicalbehavior of the regime demonstrates that this pledge runs skin deep <strong>an</strong>d does not show <strong>an</strong>y sign of ch<strong>an</strong>ge,


which makes all our ef<strong>for</strong>ts <strong>an</strong>d sacrifices in vain. We believe as long as the regime continues to defy the will ofthe people. our problems would multiply. That is why it has to be compelled to desist from its destructive pathor be removed. We there<strong>for</strong>e call on you to follow our example <strong>an</strong>d join the just <strong>an</strong>d popular struggle.To the international communityThe minority Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> regime does not have the capacity or the legitimacy to continue to rule the country. Theregime. whose dismal 15 year tenure is more th<strong>an</strong> enough to gauge its goodwill. needs to be pressed rather th<strong>an</strong>appeased to submit to the call <strong>for</strong> dialogue. We strongly urge you to reconsider your support <strong>for</strong> it as it does not<strong>an</strong>y more serve our common strategic interests.Brigadier General Hailu GonfaColonel Gamachu Ay<strong>an</strong>aSeptemher 14. 2006Opinions published on News <strong>an</strong>d Views section of this site are those of the authors <strong>an</strong>d not necessarily that ofOLF.Copyright ©2005 ABO/OLF All Rights Reser\ ed mailto:ollinfodeskikearthlink.netat Friday, September 15. 2006 Posted by GODAANNISA 0 comments Links to this postThursday, September 14. 2006


ANN ex IH BPRESS STATEMENTQuoting obscure Israeli security officials, the Sunday Times published areport on April 19 th claiming that "Israel <strong>an</strong>d Ir<strong>an</strong> are conducting rivalintelligence operations in Eritrea"The Sunday Times report further asserted: "Israel is said to have twoEritre<strong>an</strong> bases, one a 'listening post' <strong>for</strong> signals intelligence, the other asupply base <strong>for</strong> its Germ<strong>an</strong>-built submarines. (while) .. Ir<strong>an</strong> has a naval basein (the Eritre<strong>an</strong> port) of Assab".The invective against Eritrea has intensified in the past two months <strong>for</strong>reasons better known to its authors. It is nonetheless clear that it is driven byulterior motives that tr<strong>an</strong>scend the fabricated, individual, events.The main sources of these relentless vilification campaigns against Eritreaare, invariably, the key western intelligence sources that have refined the artof disin<strong>for</strong>mation. Indeed, while these stories are originally concocted in themurky offices of these agencies, they are often attributed to some obscure"political dissident", "businessm<strong>an</strong>" etc, in order to give them a sembl<strong>an</strong>ceof credibility. Selected "hum<strong>an</strong> rights groups" (Africa Watch, CPJ etc.) <strong>an</strong>dsome NGOs are also being used as convenient conduits. The Sunday Timesreport is not thus a case of sloppy journalism. It is part <strong>an</strong>d parcel of thedisin<strong>for</strong>mation campaign unleashed against Eritrea by these intelligenceagencies with fr<strong>an</strong>tic intensity.The facts are otherwise the following:Israel does not have, <strong>an</strong>d it never had, <strong>an</strong>y base in Eritrea. Butprobably in order to sow discord between Eritrea <strong>an</strong>d some ArabStates, Israeli intelligence sources have been deliberately spreading,<strong>for</strong> the past 17 years, false rumours of a military base in the DahlakIsl<strong>an</strong>ds. When this lie was proven wrong beyond <strong>an</strong>y shred of doubt,they appear to have come up with the new story of "two bases". (Thelistening post is a throw back to the 1950s when the US acquired sucha base at the Kagnew Station in Asmara, Eritrea's capital, in exch<strong>an</strong>ge<strong>for</strong> its support to Ethiopia's impending <strong>an</strong>nexation of Eritrea).Ir<strong>an</strong> does not have a base in Assab or <strong>an</strong>ywhere else in Eritrea. True,Eritrea <strong>an</strong>d Ir<strong>an</strong> have recently cultivated very warm diplomatic ties.But this is not different from the warm diplomatic ties that Eritreaenjoys with all other countries in the Middle East. Furthermore, Ir<strong>an</strong>


has resident embassies <strong>an</strong>d much deeper economic ties with all othercountries in the Horn of Africa: Ethiopia, Djibouti <strong>an</strong>d the Sud<strong>an</strong>.At a more subst<strong>an</strong>tive level <strong>an</strong>d in terms of abstract rights, Eritrea hasevery prerogative <strong>an</strong>d the inalienable right, as a sovereign state, toenter into military <strong>an</strong>d economic alli<strong>an</strong>ces with <strong>an</strong>y other country ofits choice <strong>an</strong>d in accord<strong>an</strong>ce with the exigencies of its nationalinterests. If Eritrea has not provided a military base to <strong>an</strong>y country sofar, this em<strong>an</strong>ates from its own considered choices. No other countryhas otherwise the right to approve or veto Eritrea's sovereign choices.As pointed out above, the signing of bilateral or multilateral pacts <strong>an</strong>dalli<strong>an</strong>ces is a mater of Eritrea's sovereign right. Eritrea does not,however, subscribe to the notion of providing military bases to othercountries. Nor does it need them. Eritrea's sovereign choice hasalways been, <strong>an</strong>d remains, that of aversion to dependency, polarizedalli<strong>an</strong>ces <strong>an</strong>d suzerainty.5. In the context of all these well-known facts, it c<strong>an</strong>not be difficult toimagine the underlying motivation of the incess<strong>an</strong>t smear campaigns.Ministry of Foreign AffairsAsmara21 April 2009


'Paver',42p.- • ,POST CONSPICUOUSLYeg No: ASR00023594"c No: ASL00033860ame: HIMBOL FINANCIAL SERVICES/Name:JN Nc: /1_-'1:00022594glie State Exoticarifiniatxy ef ri'vade <strong>an</strong>d .70'.NOT TItANSFERAIBLE:1-•Code Licensed Activty(ies)160 - B<strong>an</strong>king serviceet2 4:153.1001.Valid Until: 31/12/2011Busness Address:Sahli MeskeremBAHTI MESKEREMEritre<strong>an</strong>rk.1. • ;- 'ding Ar'ciesE120735 EOXIssue Date 14/10/2008 Date 17/08/2011IF Business License. does NOT a uthoriie the: Licensee or <strong>an</strong>y agent or employee thereof to ••conduct ,t4Stisinests, oCcPpation, or to per<strong>for</strong>m <strong>an</strong>y act incidental thereto without strict! tda _ 0 it ;Arxi:-.;


NNEX 1610/10/2011%MA - aNI•A rti 5A913/McD-fl%90 (14n h •ii Y7G-+ coRkt„ 1115 • 14- Ibc+e-m•fl h7Aitt4c--• 1 I9°Y41 9°t) 5A9°tNal-f3 harmiliAtcu-OA ;1740A-1- .e.thi Mo n -HC HC Sgefr vuti YyuflA at-bAh-11)-g° tittm- (Mr/ al-.23 haval tIAq=1: Thvil MI. 'iltiO41Agent NameHead QuarterLocationDateContract Signed1 WESTERN UNION U. S.A 16 November 20062 XPRESS MONEY U. A. E 20 December 20043 ALAmoudi B<strong>an</strong>k Saudi Arabia 25 J<strong>an</strong>uary 19954 TMT U.S.A 24 November 20045 EriCommerce U.K 01 October 20056 RIA FINANCIAL SERVICES U.S.A 17 August 20097 Ez Remit U.A.E 27 December 20058 ARY Forex Ltd. U.A.E 10 May 20079 MONEY EXCH.SA Spain 04 September 200610 LARI EXCHANGEESTABLISHMENTU.A.E 28 December 2006'kn


LIST OF OUR MAJOR CORRESPONDENT BANKSNO NAME OF CORRESPONDENT BANKS ADRESS1 CITIBANK NEW YORK2 CITIBANK LONDON3 FEDERAL RESERVE BANK OF NEW YORK NEW YORK4 COMMERZBANK AG FRUKFURT5 DZBANK FRUNKF URT6 SWISS BANK CORPORATION ZURICH


+WV •••n •( 1 ;)* 51.,`PaDT:1) L.' C.) L'• t-"ki"POST CONSPICUOUSLY'The State of Eritrea.Minis-tty of Trade <strong>an</strong>d IndustryNOT TRANSFERABLEkcci ASR000 -14680Lic ASL00033584Nati,e: RED SEA TR/dDING CORPORATIONTiff. me: RED SEATRAD.CORP.1:1P.EXP: Ho: ASC.00014CF,0Code Licensed Activty(ies)020 - Wholesale nonedibles.notgas,petroleum ()ids.)GH1 - Import & Export H.S. Code Section XVValid Until: 31/05/2011Busness Address:Maekelay keternaSEM.MBR.05 ST.f2ASALULA 29/31N,;1.: Eritre<strong>an</strong>Mailing Address;EM MBR.05 ST.RAr ALULA 29/31I el 12438P BOX 332Issue Date 30/04/2008 Date 08/11/2010 'Thls Business License does NOT authorize the Licensee or <strong>an</strong>y agent or employee thereof toconduct the business, occupation, profession, or to per<strong>for</strong>m <strong>an</strong>y act incidental thereto withoutstrictly complying with Article 21 of Proclamation No. 128/2002.12840_tes• lfrensing Office


ANNEX 18LIST OF HONORARY CONSULS OF ERITREAGreeceHungaryIndiaLeb<strong>an</strong>onNorwayPakist<strong>an</strong>PhilippinesSouth AfricaSwitzerl<strong>an</strong>dT<strong>an</strong>z<strong>an</strong>iaThail<strong>an</strong>dUg<strong>an</strong>daFekadu TewoldemedhinTesfay HaileS<strong>an</strong>jay GoenkaAbdalla Al MatrajiAbrham WolduShakil Aftab KashmirwalaGeorge T. Y<strong>an</strong>gEui-Jae KimToni LocherAlly K. Sykes Sr.Soonthorn KengvibulTesfalem Gherahtu


AiQ ivex (3Arnbasciata dello Statodi EritreaCOMUNICATO STAMPA.00187 Roma, Via Boricompagni, 16/6Tel.(0039) 0642741293Fax (0039) 0642086806E-mail: cricrub.romeemclink.i[Roma. a2/-,1 /-24/questi ultimi tempi PEritrea e state oggetto di particolare acc<strong>an</strong>imento di cronaca mediatica. A lcuni settoridella stampa itali<strong>an</strong>a h<strong>an</strong>no volutamente fare use strumentale, delle vicende giudiziarie dell'assessore alturismo della Regione Lombardia. it Sig. Pier Gi<strong>an</strong>ni Prosperini. In ri guardo l'Ambaseiata dello Stato Eritreadesidera comunicare qu<strong>an</strong>to segue.Net quadro dei buoni rapporti esistenti tra Italia ed Eritrea. it Cioverno eritreo e le Autorita che lorappresent<strong>an</strong>o, intrattengono relazioni di reciproco interesse con le istituzioni centrali e localiitali<strong>an</strong>e. Data la particolarita del rapporto storico — culturale tra i due paesi. Eintreccio delle relazioniche Si sono create negli ultimi <strong>an</strong>ni di indipendenza dell'Eritrea, sonic t<strong>an</strong>ti e tocc<strong>an</strong>o vari settori delcommercio. dell'industria e della cultura itali<strong>an</strong>a nel suo insieme.Le relazioni che si sono instaurate con la Regione Lombardia rientr<strong>an</strong>o nel quadro generale di tameinitiative che it governo eritreo promuove e realizza in stretta collaborazione con delle istituzionipubbliche e private. Ne sono la dirnostrazione it crescente interesse conunerciale ed industriaie degliimprenditori itali<strong>an</strong>i. ll rapporto di fiducia sviluppatosi con be istituzioni lombarde net loro insieme(ma <strong>an</strong>che con altre realt y regional') scaturisce dalla concretezza di rapporti coltivati e maturati neltempo. II coinvolgimento della figura dell'assessore Pier Gi<strong>an</strong>ni Prosperini, non e a ltro che itrisultato di tali rapporti che, in qualit y di rappresent<strong>an</strong>te istituzionale. it nostro governo ha voila()onorare it ruolo promotore degli enti local' e di chi è. chiamato a svolgere tale funzione. L'AssessoreProsperini, ha collaborato in qu<strong>an</strong>ta di promotore istituzionale per facilitare rapporti di siennacredibilita con il mond° della produzione. II contralto firmato tra it govern() eritreo e Fimpres<strong>an</strong>avale <strong>for</strong>nitrice, Cautieri navali Vittoria, ha avuto esito finale nella trasparenza e regolarita previstodal contratto stesso,Le notizie giudiziarie the sono state ampiamente divulgate dalla stampa, sono vicende cheriguard<strong>an</strong>o la persona del Sig. Prosperini Pert<strong>an</strong>to, it tentativo di creare collegamenti con l'acquistodei'pescherecci, a solt<strong>an</strong>to strumentale ai fini politici locali.Pent<strong>an</strong>tp, EAmbasciata d'Eritrea coglie l'oecasione, per rivolgere <strong>an</strong> sincero invito all y stampaitali<strong>an</strong>a i to generale ed alle testate giornalistiche che in coincidenza di momenti particolari si sottoprodigate oer denigrare it paese. ad impegnarsi seriamente per approfondire le ricerche sulFEritrea.inquadrare it suo profile attuale, nel contesto degli eventi che st<strong>an</strong>no segn<strong>an</strong>do it Corno d'Africa. Atale proposito EAmbasciata rim<strong>an</strong>e disponibile a collaborare con i giornalisti che abbi<strong>an</strong>o intenzionedi visitare it paese e raceogliere le intOrmazioni sul campo.


ANNE XThe Government of Eritrea is appalled to learn that some quarters arecurrently engaged in arr<strong>an</strong>ging what they call "the resettlement in somethird country or countries" of Kunama families who presently findthemselves under <strong>for</strong>ced custody in a so-called refugee camp in Tigray,Ethiopia.The illegal <strong>an</strong>d unacceptable campaign by these self-appointed externalparties has, apparently, been underway <strong>for</strong> m<strong>an</strong>y months now. Thecampaign appears to have been conducted in a flagr<strong>an</strong>tly surreptitiousm<strong>an</strong>ner; without first appraising the underlying <strong>an</strong>d complex circumst<strong>an</strong>cesthat gave rise to the situation; ascertaining the wishes of the peopleconcerned <strong>an</strong>d/or in<strong>for</strong>ming the government of Eritrea. There is credibleevidence that these groups are employing unscrupulous methods to enticethe destitute families to opt <strong>for</strong> resettlement in some western country orcountries rather th<strong>an</strong> returning home.It must be underlined at the outset that there is nothing like "a Kunamaproblem" in Eritrea. The Kunamas have fought with the same degree ofcommitment <strong>an</strong>d heroism, <strong>an</strong>d, paid the same high sacrifices as otherEritre<strong>an</strong> l<strong>an</strong>guage <strong>an</strong>d ethnic groups <strong>for</strong> the liberation of their country in thethirty years of armed struggle against Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> colonial rule. And in <strong>an</strong>independent Eritrea that respects <strong>an</strong>d safeguards, both through explicitConstitutional provisions <strong>an</strong>d concrete policies <strong>an</strong>d programmes, theequality of all l<strong>an</strong>guage <strong>an</strong>d ethnic groups, the Kunamas enjoy the samepolitical, social <strong>an</strong>d economic rights, opportunities <strong>an</strong>d privileges as theircompatriots. No body in their right mind c<strong>an</strong> thus misconstrue reality toportray the Kunamas as a "persecuted minority or end<strong>an</strong>gered species". Ifsome zealous groups in the West are indeed engaged in <strong>an</strong> elusive search ofa sensational hum<strong>an</strong>itari<strong>an</strong> cause that would in some subliminal way atone<strong>for</strong> past crimes of slavery, we advise them to look elsewhere.In as far as the 3,000 or so Kunama refugees in Tigray (Adi Goshu) areconcerned, these are mostly innocent civili<strong>an</strong>s, including women <strong>an</strong>dchildren, who were taken to that location by TPLF troops when theywithdrew from the Gash Barka region (western Eritrea) after occupying thearea <strong>for</strong> some weeks in the invasion that Ethiopia unleashed against Eritreain May 2000. Ever since, the TPLF regime has literally kept them there ashostages through <strong>for</strong>ce <strong>an</strong>d coercion; preventing their free return to theirhomel<strong>an</strong>d. Those who have m<strong>an</strong>aged to escape from the camp <strong>an</strong>d returnhome in a roundabout way through the Sud<strong>an</strong> attest this.The 3000 or so Kunama families in the Adi Goshu camp represent a veryminute fraction of the Kunama ethnic group in Eritrea. The fact that theKunama citizens in the country enjoy the same rights, privileges <strong>an</strong>dobligations as other Eritre<strong>an</strong>s proves that there is no ground <strong>for</strong> the


esettlement scheme. Claims that there could be reprisals when they returnto Eritrea are totally unfounded. Those who have returned have beenwelcomed with open arms by the government <strong>an</strong>d society <strong>an</strong>d assisted topick up their lives again. Indeed, similar insinuations were voiced in regardto the repatriation of Eritre<strong>an</strong> refugees from the Sud<strong>an</strong>, m<strong>an</strong>y of whom werealleged to have had ties with subversive groups <strong>an</strong>d to be opposed to theEritre<strong>an</strong> government. The m<strong>an</strong>ner in which these refugees, whose numberexceeds 100,000, were integrated without <strong>an</strong>y discrimination or retributionbelies the current groundless accusations.It must be borne in mind that the present Ethiopi<strong>an</strong> regime is pursuing thesame policy of its predecessors of dividing the Eritre<strong>an</strong> people along ethnic<strong>an</strong>d religious lines. Mengistu's regime had institutionalized a policy ofregionalisation to drive a wedge between highl<strong>an</strong>d <strong>an</strong>d lowl<strong>an</strong>d Eritrea,between Christi<strong>an</strong> <strong>an</strong>d Moslem Eritre<strong>an</strong>s etc. Within this divisive policyframework, the Kunamas, <strong>an</strong>d some other minority groups, were singledout <strong>for</strong> special treatment so that they would oppose the liberation struggle.But the endeavour failed miserably. And, as it happened, the Kunamasparticipated in the liberation struggle <strong>an</strong>d on the side of the EPLF in full<strong>for</strong>ce <strong>an</strong>d with high commitment <strong>an</strong>d determination.Since launching its war of aggression in 1998, the TPLF regime hasresorted to similar practices. To this end, it has created subversive groupsthat include the "Kunama liberation front". These h<strong>an</strong>dful terrorist groupshave no base or constituency in the country. This is indeed the primaryreason why the TPLF regime continues to keep the Kunama families in theAdi Goshu camp, virtually as hostages, to use them as a recruitment pool<strong>for</strong> the subversive groups.The Government of Eritrea strongly deplores the illegal <strong>an</strong>d hostile acts ofthe TPLF regime that contravenes international law. The Government ofEritrea stresses that these Kunama families abducted by the regime inEthiopia have a fundamental hum<strong>an</strong> right to return to their homel<strong>an</strong>d <strong>an</strong>drejoin the families from whom they were <strong>for</strong>cibly separated. TheGovernment of Eritrea accordingly dem<strong>an</strong>ds that those groups engaged in aviolation of this fundamental right desist from their illegal acts. It furthercalls on the UNHCR <strong>an</strong>d the international community to facilitate theirearly return home.Government of Eritrea3 March 20032


ANNEX 21C O N F I D E N T I A L ASMARA 000146SENSITIVE SIPDISDEPARTMENT FOR CA/EX, CA/VO/F/P, CA/VO/L/AE.O. 12958: DECL: 05/05/2019 TAGS: CVIS, CMGT, PREL, PGOV, SOCI,PREF, ERSUBJECT: PROMOTING EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY FOR ANTI-REGIME ERITREAN YOUTHREF: A. ASMARA 142 B. DYBDAHL-HACK EMAILS 20APR09 AND SUBSEQUENTClassified By: Ambassador Ronald K. McMullen <strong>for</strong> reason 1.4(d)(C) SUMMARY: In Eritrea, only the elderly <strong>an</strong>d pro-regimeindividuals are allowed passports <strong>an</strong>d exit visas to travelabroad. The regime closed the University of Asmara in 2005 <strong>an</strong>dconscripts almost all young adults into open-ended nationalservice, which borders on indefinite <strong>for</strong>ced labor. Perhaps215,000 young Eritre<strong>an</strong>s have fled the country <strong>an</strong>d molder inrefugee camps in Sud<strong>an</strong>, Ethiopia, <strong>an</strong>d elsewhere. Posts pl<strong>an</strong>s torestart visa services (completely suspended in 2007) <strong>for</strong> studentvisa applic<strong>an</strong>ts; we intend to give opportunities to study in theUnited States to those who oppose the regime, as well as others.Thus, Post requests that CA seek to establish a limitedcategory-specific exemption to the passport requirement <strong>for</strong>Eritre<strong>an</strong>s found eligible <strong>for</strong> student visas. Embassy Asmaraemployees eligible <strong>for</strong> Special Immigr<strong>an</strong>t Visas should also beincluded in this narrow category. End Summary.(SBU) FLEEING IN DROVES, BUT THEN STUCKM<strong>an</strong>y young Eritre<strong>an</strong>s long to study in the United States (ref A),apply to Americ<strong>an</strong> universities, get accepted, <strong>an</strong>d even getscholarships, but c<strong>an</strong>'t leave Eritrea legally unless they arerelatives of regime insiders. For tens of thous<strong>an</strong>ds of youngEritre<strong>an</strong>s, hope <strong>for</strong> a better future has been extinguished.Thous<strong>an</strong>ds cross illegally into Sud<strong>an</strong>; even those who acquireofficial refugee status find there is almost no ch<strong>an</strong>ce <strong>for</strong>


esettlement. M<strong>an</strong>y spend years in hardscrabble refugee camps ineastern Sud<strong>an</strong>, subject to abuse, exploitation, <strong>an</strong>d despair. Yet,tens of thous<strong>an</strong>ds find that preferable to living under one ofthe world's harshest dictatorships.(C) HOW THIS WOULD WORKPost intends to begin adjudicating student visa applications,regardless of whether the regime is willing to issue theapplic<strong>an</strong>t <strong>an</strong> Eritre<strong>an</strong> passport <strong>an</strong>d exit visa. If <strong>an</strong> applic<strong>an</strong>t isotherwise found eligible <strong>for</strong> a student visa, Post will issue itin a Form DS-232. If the visa recipient c<strong>an</strong> later convince theauthorities in Asmara to issue a passport <strong>an</strong>d exit visa, fine.Other visa recipients will undoubtedly make their way toKhartoum, where the Eritre<strong>an</strong> embassy is widely known to sellEritre<strong>an</strong> passports to nearly all comers; with <strong>an</strong> Eritre<strong>an</strong>passport <strong>an</strong>d <strong>an</strong> Fl visa in a Form DS-232, the lucky young personis off to America. For those visa recipients who m<strong>an</strong>age to leavethe country <strong>an</strong>d receive UNHCR refugee status, a UN-authorizedtravel document might allow the young person to travel toAmerica with his or her Fl in the DS-232.(C) SPECIAL IMMIGRANT VISASAs Eritrea became independent only in 1993, m<strong>an</strong>y of our initialbatch of FSNs are becoming eligible <strong>for</strong> 15-year SpecialImmigr<strong>an</strong>t Visas (SIV). Normally SIVs require 20 years of USGemployment, but Embassy Asmara's SIV applic<strong>an</strong>ts are frequentlyfound eligible after 15 years due to the d<strong>an</strong>gerous conditions inwhich they work. For example, since 2001 the regime has arrested<strong>an</strong>d imprisoned 43 of our local employees; others have fledillegally to escape persecution. Several have returned to workafter having been arrested, tortured, <strong>an</strong>d eventually released.One was held in <strong>an</strong> underground cell <strong>for</strong> <strong>an</strong> entire year. Anotherlost 80% of his hearing after repeated beatings. Once they apply<strong>for</strong> <strong>an</strong>d are found eligible <strong>for</strong> SIVs, our FSNs still must getEritre<strong>an</strong> passports <strong>an</strong>d exit permits. Currently four SIV-eligibleFSNs are waiting to be issued Eritre<strong>an</strong> passports; they may neverget them. Post has not stopped adjudicating SIVs, but we maystart issuing them in DS-232s as events warr<strong>an</strong>t.5. (C) REQUEST: LIMITED CATEGORY-SPECIFIC EXEMPTIONTh<strong>an</strong>ks to helpful background in<strong>for</strong>mation from CA/V0 (ref B) <strong>an</strong>dother research, Post is familiar with INA 212 (d)(4)(A)


egarding waiver procedures <strong>for</strong> travelers without passports.While we don't expect a massive number of Eritre<strong>an</strong>s withoutpassports to receive student visas or Special Immigr<strong>an</strong>t Visas,processing these cases individually would be quite costly interms of time <strong>an</strong>d USG hum<strong>an</strong> resources.--Thus, Post requests that CA work with DHS to establish alimited category-specific exemption as per 22 CFR 41.3(g) thatwould encompass Eritre<strong>an</strong>s who fully qualify <strong>for</strong> a student (Fl)visa or SIV, except <strong>for</strong> the passport requirement. Please advise.Embassy point of contact is Consul Pam Hack. Post pl<strong>an</strong>s to beginaccepting student visa applications from those with <strong>an</strong>d withoutpassports soon.6. (C) COMMENTDue to the Isaias regime's ongoing restrictions on EmbassyAsmara, Post does not contemplate a resumption of full visaservices in the near future. However, giving young Eritre<strong>an</strong>shope, the ch<strong>an</strong>ce <strong>for</strong> <strong>an</strong> education, <strong>an</strong>d the skills with which torebuild their impoverished country in the post-Isaias period isone of the strongest signals we c<strong>an</strong> send to the Eritre<strong>an</strong> peoplethat the United States has not ab<strong>an</strong>doned them. Were we to beginprocessing student visa applications <strong>an</strong>d require a regime-issuedpassport, we would be seen as strengthening the dictatorship'sh<strong>an</strong>d. Thus, the limited category-specific exemption outlinedabove is key.MCMULLEN

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