Why can’t Ethiopia and Eritrea look towards the future?

The Ethio-Eritrean impasse has come up yet again, with little in the way of resolving the issue. Both countries continue in their usual manner of accusation and counter- recrimination. Ironically, both countries’ ruling parties were once allies who did away with the Derg military dictatorship, bringing an end to the spate of conflict that had so disastrously affected the region.

So far, both capitals are still calling out a plethora of accusations. But a new era of cooperative relationship has to start at some point. The damage caused by the ongoing spat between the two nations has gone long enough. During the five-year feud that followed the end of outright war, Ethio-Eritrean relations have remained cold over disputed territories and Eritrea’s alleged support of insurgencies in Ethiopia.

The UN has thus far been reduced to the task of a pawn in the ongoing feud - its operations have been severely restricted by impositions and accusations, and its warnings - rather pleas - have fallen on deaf ears. The role of the UN has to be elevated to the task of a full partner for peace. Monitoring the cessation of hostilities for over seven years has thus far not helped.

Much stronger players need to enter into the milieu if we are to see an end to Africa’s Cold War. For new and mature relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea to develop, both parties need to engage with each other on the issue of territorial claims. But in that same vein, other facets of their relations need to normalize. Both nations continue to suffer from the cessation of mutual trade. This is definitely an area in which progress can be made.
The common history of both nations can bridge the gap between them. Despite their recent depressing history, there are historical, cultural and traditional bonds that link both nations - we can use these links to further the reconciliation process.

At the regional level, the issue of Somalia continues to hang in the balance, with both sides supporting different factions. The inter-governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) is in limbo because of the sour relations between the two countries, and neighboring countries are at their wits end over fears of resumption of hostilities. These factor into the looming crisis that has ever so slowly edged towards the state it is in.

It is in both countries’ interests to look towards a future-oriented relationship. One should not forget the adage that while driving, one should only glance in the rear-view mirror once in a while. If one stares in the rear-view too long, he will surely crash. The future should be the fixation. When will prudence reign over bruised egos?

Both nations should look towards conciliatory policies. The most immediate and important challenge is to resume negotiations to conclude all outstanding issues relating to the border conflict. A lot is being written and spoken about the stalemate between the two countries. The media and pundits alike project a gloomy and fateful scenario.

The region is on the brink of abyss. But no one seems to be talking about what can be done to mend relations. Yes, political solutions are often elusive in Africa and more so in situations where one-upsmanship prevails. But surely there are areas of common interest the two countries can explore? Is it really too much to ask that both nations talk and work towards resolving conflicts in the region?