EASF Member State Concludes Peace Deal.

The leaders of Eritrea and Ethiopia signed a peace agreement on Monday the 9th of July following the closure of the summit between the two countries.

Both countries have now restored diplomatic relations ending 20 years of enmity and following the signing of this peace agreement, many leaders from the East African region and beyond have commended and congratulated both leaders.

(Image Source: Twitter Account of Fitsum Arega, Chief of Staff, Prime Minister Office, Ethiopia)

The Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed aged 42 and the Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki, who is 72 years old, also agreed on the signature of agreements to open embassies in their respective capitals as well as use Eritrean ports and most importantly, restore flight services between the two countries.

Many Ethiopians expressed their exhilaration on social media and in both countries people were dancing in the streets after the news of the signing was aired.

Ethiopia's reformist Prime Minister flew to Eritrea on Sunday where he was welcomed with hugs and laughter by Afwerki, a joyous scene unthinkable just months ago. The two leaders spoke of love between their countries and announced the end of the longstanding border war between the two countries.

Many citizens from both countries are now able to get in touch with their families and friends. Soon, trade and commerce will resume as both countries embrace a new page in their history. For the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF), this historic event is a positive step in enhancing peace and security in the region.

Photogallery: EASF Member State Concludes Peace Deal