30 August 2016•Update: 31 August 2016
By Ibrahim Tigli
ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia
The African Union has reiterated its solidarity with the Turkish government and the people of Turkey in its fight against terrorism.
In remarks made at Turkey’s Victory Day celebration at the Turkish Embassy in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa Tuesday, African Union Commissioner for Peace and Security Ismail Chergui said: “I would like to take this opportunity to express on behalf of the African Union our solidarity with the government and the people of Turkey for overcoming an attempt at unconstitutional change of government last month.
“As you all know, since the Algiers Summit in 1999, the AU has raised the red card for any attempt of coup or attempt to take power by force. So it is only natural that we will be on your side.”
Chergui also praised the resilience of the Turkish people and the resolve of all the country’s institutions and political parties. He said Turkey had started “a new era stronger, more united and working hand in hand for the interest of its people and its partners, particularly in Africa.”
Referring to a call for renewed engagement between Turkey and Africa as made on the occasion by the Turkish ambassador to Ethiopia and special envoy to AU, Chergui said: “We welcome the renewed engagement …in combatting terrorism.
“Terrorism is the threat of our time, of this century.” he said.
Chergui noted Turkey enjoys mutual partnership with Africa in the economic field as well as trade, diplomacy and governance. Since the declaration of Turkey as a strategic partner by the African Union in January 2008, the bloc continues to work closely with Turkey to enhance and deepen this cooperation, he said.
Ethiopian State Minister for Foreign Affairs Ambassador Taye Atskeselassie also attended the event as guest of honor.
Atskeselassie said he was in Istanbul and observed the attempted coup close up on July 15.
“On a personal note, I was in the city of Istanbul. I found myself in a very active coup while in front of the airport. Around 3.30 a.m. [0030 GMT] early morning I woke up to thunderous sound of assault bomb coming out of F-16 fighter. I saw hundreds and thousands of people gather at the airport to welcome their president,” he said.
The state minister said he saw first-hand how determined and resilient the Turkish people were in the face of hardships and tragedies. He pledged support to the government and people of Turkey in their endeavors to quell terrorism.
