AU urges "maximum restraint" amid rising tensions in Ethiopia's Tigray

Addis Ababa: African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has called for maximum restraint in Ethiopia s Tigray region. The AU, i...

Addis Ababa: African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has called for maximum restraint in Ethiopia's Tigray region.

The AU, in a statement issued Friday, said the AUC chief is closely monitoring the situation in parts of the East African country's northernmost Tigray region, and expressed "deep concern over recent developments" there.

Youssouf "re-emphasizes the paramount and continued importance of the preservation of the hard-won gains achieved under the AU-led Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement between the federal government of Ethiopia and the Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF)."

He called on all parties to exercise "maximum restraint, refrain from actions that could undermine confidence, and resolve all outstanding issues through constructive dialogue," in full adherence to the obligations and spirit of the peace agreement, the statement said.

Youssouf reaffirmed the 55-member bloc's "unwavering commitment to the full and effective implementation" of the peace accord, reiterating the AU's continued support for the parties throughout the peace-building and reconciliation process.