Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has held talks with Europe’s Development and Humanitarian Aid Commissioner, Louis Michel. During the meeting in Addis Ababa on Friday 17^th February, they discussed the current internal political situation in Ethiopia and future plans for economic and development cooperation with the European Union. Commissioner Michel also met with Ethiopian officials, the Parliament, representatives of civil society and members of the opposition.

Prime Minister Meles confirmed that international legal observers would be welcome at the trial against members of the opposition and that he was confident that this would be speedy and fair. Commissioner Michel welcomed the decision to grant him access to those members of the opposition held in Kalte prison.

“This is a positive sign, a sign of confidence, and I consider it a significant step in the direction of constructive political dialogue”, the Commissioner said.

He stressed the importance of ensuring a proper and effective functioning of the Parliament, in which the opposition plays its democratic role.

The Commissioner was also updated on the implementation and results of recent studies on parliamentary procedures and the media.

ENDS