I never said that. In fact, nothing can be further from the truth. I strongly suggest to Ato Paulos to read what I have been writing on the theme over the last twenty-five years, including my book: The Five Dimensions of the Eritrean Conflict [1941-2004]: Deciphering the Geo-Political Puzzle [2004]. The speech that I made at San Jose will also be published soon.
Eritrea has everything to contribute to the peace, security and development of the entire Horn of Africa. It has an energetic and talented population, along with natural resources that are potentially abundant.
The future of Ethiopia and Eritrea is intertwined. One without the other, is only half of the necessity. It is like clapping with the right hand, in the absence of the left hand, or having the upper jaw without the lower jaw. The current strained relationship between the two countries has to be mended through people-to people dialogue of the type we are having, but on a larger scale. Many, including myself, have suggested that we begin with the task of bridge-building before tackling the issue of a confederation or a federation.
For the record, my own preference is to see a federation between Eritrea and Ethiopia. Given my specialty on the history, geo-politics and economies of the countries of the Horn of Africa, I have come to the conclusion that neither Eritrea nor Ethiopia will benefit from confederation. In fact, such an arrangement will only complicate existing problems. The proposed federation will lay down the foundations for the integration of the entire Horn of Africa. As the relationship between Eritrea and Ethiopia improves, we will address every pressing issue in order to create a solid foundation which the next generation can build upon. We have everything, except imaginative leadership.
I hope I will have the opportunity to have a frank dialogue with Paulos Assefa in order to clarify any possible misunderstandings. In the mean time, let us continue discussing our common problems.
