Speaking to journalists in New York, António Guterres said that it would allow for effective humanitarian access and relief to all affected populations throughout Ethiopia.

“And these actions will help pave the way to a much-needed inclusive national dialogue involving all Ethiopians”, he added, noting that “the people of Ethiopia continue to suffer greatly from ongoing conflict and bloodshed.”

As the UN chief prepares to leave for the Winter Olympics, he reiterated his appeal to all parties to follow the finest tradition of the Olympic spirit to save lives, overcome differences and find the path to real peace.

“For millennia, the tradition of the Olympic Truce has called on all parties, everywhere, to stop hostilities throughout the course of the Games”, he noted. (ILKHA)

The people of Ethiopia continue to suffer greatly from ongoing conflict and bloodshed.

I make the strongest possible appeal for an immediate cessation of hostilities, following the spirit of the Olympic Truce - to save lives, overcome differences and find the path to real peace. pic.twitter.com/Rqw6l8l50D

— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) February 1, 2022