WASHINGTON, March 15 (KUNA) — US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced more than USD 331 million in new humanitarian assistance for Ethiopia in FY 2023 through the Department of State and the US Agency for International Development.

“This funding will provide life-saving support to those displaced and affected by conflict, drought, and food insecurity in Ethiopia,” he said in a press release during his visit to the East African country. “The United States is the largest single-country provider of humanitarian assistance in Ethiopia. “Our assistance provides critical, life-saving support, including food, shelter, safe drinking water, sanitation and hygiene, healthcare efforts, education, and other key services. “This announcement will help deepen the partnership between the United States and Africa,” Secretary Blinken added.

During his meeting with Ethiopian Prime Minister Ahmed discussed a range of issues critical to the US-Ethiopia relationship and “the significant progress in implementing the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement following the silencing of the guns in northern Ethiopia,” according to a statement attributable to State Dept. Spokesperson Ned Price. “This progress includes improved humanitarian access and restoration of basic services. “The Secretary reiterated US support for efforts by the parties to achieve full implementation of the agreement in order to lay the groundwork for a sustainable peace,” Price noted. “The Secretary and Prime Minister also discussed the importance of accountability for the atrocities perpetrated by all parties during the conflict, as well as the need for an inclusive and comprehensive process of transitional justice,” he added. (end) asj.gb

Source: Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)