El Fasher, 6 January 2010 – UNAMID’S Joint Special Representative (JSR) Ibrahim Gambari met with Ethiopian Foreign Minister Seyoum Mesfin on 4 February 2010.

Mr. Gambari expressed his appreciation for the support Ethiopia had extended to UNAMID, as well as pointed out the challenges the Mission has faced in providing security to Darfur, an area equivalent in size to France.

Ethiopia is to send five (5) Tactical Helicopters to UNAMID in mid-February. The assets are expected to make a significant impact in the situation on the ground, as the Mission currently has no helicopters capable of tactical support.

Ethiopia is among the largest troop-contributing countries to UNAMID. The country currently provides two (2) infantry battalions and four (4) companies, consisting of a logistics, transport, technical, and reconnaissance unit, to the Mission.

Both diplomats exchanged ideas on ways in which the peace process could be sped up. The Ethiopian Minister also conveyed his support of Mr. Gambari’s priorities of enhancing the security of civilians and internally displaced people in Darfur; continuing to provide proactive support to the ongoing peace process; and, assisting in the normalization of relations between Chad and the Sudan. Following the meeting, the Foreign Minister hosted a dinner in honor of JSR Gambari.

Mr. Mesfin was accompanied by senior officials from his Ministry, including State Minister Tekeda Alemu. The JSR was joined by UNAMID Deputy Joint Special Representative for Operations and Management, Mr. Mohamed Yonis, and the Head of UNAMID’s Joint Support and Coordination Mechanism, Mr. James Mutiso.