This archive report was first published on 10 May 2020.
On May 10, 2020, Eritrea's President Isaias Afeworki made an unexpected official visit to Ethiopia, becoming the first head of state to travel abroad during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Accompanied by Foreign Minister Osman Saleh and Presidential Advisor Yemane Ghebreab, President Afeworki arrived at Addis Ababa's Bole International Airport and was cordially received by Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed.
The visit has sparked controversy, with critics questioning the need for in-person meetings when virtual discussions are possible.
According to Eritrean human rights activist Desbele Mehari, the visit was 'a historical mistake.' He criticized President Afeworki's decision to travel to Ethiopia, saying, 'It is said that they met to discuss Covid-19 but Eritrea has already refused to even receive medical supplies donated by Chinese philanthropist Jack Ma. So how are they expected to discuss this issue? This relationship is unsettling to me.'
President Afeworki's critics argue that leaders should focus on preventing the spread of the virus rather than engaging in regional diplomacy.
During his two-day visit, President Afeworki and Prime Minister Ahmed inaugurated an irrigation project located outside the capital in Oromia regional state.
However, critics argue that the visit was unnecessary, especially given the pressing health issues in both countries.
