The leaders of Ethiopia and Eritrea have reopened crossing points on their shared border for the first time in 20 years, clearing the way for trade between the former foes after a stunning reconciliation. Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki opened the frontier at Bure, a region that saw some of the fiercest fighting during their 1998-2000 war. The leaders also celebrated Ethiopian new year together at border with their troops, Fitsum Arega, Abiy's Chief of Staff, said on Twitter. Since signing an agreement in Asmara on July 9 to restore ties, the Eritrean and Ethiopian leaders have moved swiftly to end two decades of hostility. Residents on another part of the border said Eritrean and Ethiopian soldiers started clearing landmines.

Source: Ethiopian News September 11, 2018 09:51 UTC