Press Statement
Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
July 20, 2007

Ethiopia Pardons Opposition Leaders and Journalists

The United States appreciates the efforts of Ethiopian elders and civil society leaders that resulted in today’s pardon by the Ethiopian Government of 38 opposition leaders and journalists detained in the wake of political violence in 2005. We hope they will remain engaged in the promotion of national reconciliation and political reform.

We commend the government of Prime Minister Meles Zenawi for its statesmanship in resolving this issue. The detainees also should be commended for their commitment to advancing democracy in Ethiopia.

The United States calls on all parties to use this breakthrough as the basis to advance dialogue on peace and democratic progress for the benefit of the people of Ethiopia.

2007/619

Released on July 20, 2007

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