Arab News Japan

TOKYO: The Japanese government on Saturday expressed concern at the news that the Ethiopian government planned to expel seven United Nations officials.

A statement issued by the Press Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tomoyuki Yoshida, said: “Japan is concerned that if these officials are expelled, it could make a significant impact on the humanitarian situation in Ethiopia. Japan calls on all parties concerned to avoid any actions for whatever reasons that may have negative impacts on the humanitarian situation in Ethiopia.”

“Japan will continue to hold constructive dialogue with the Ethiopian government and work on the humanitarian crisis with the international community for peace and stability in Ethiopia.”

The world body’s aid chief suggested that blocked aid was leading to famine in the Tigray region, which is in conflict with government forces.

The seven people being expelled include the country heads of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the head of the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

The seven were given 72 hours to leave after being accused of “meddling” in Ethiopia’s internal affairs.