Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of reports that (1) South Sudan diplomats have been expelled from Addis Ababa, and (2) Ethiopian diplomats have been expelled from Juba; what assessment they have made of how those expulsions relate to military action in Tigray; and what discussions they have had with the government (a) of South Sudan, and (b) of Ethiopia, following those expulsions.

Reports of diplomatic expulsions by Ethiopia and South Sudan have been categorically denied by both governments. We are not aware of any such actions being taken by either country.

We are in touch with a range of partners to encourage Ethiopia to de-escalate and engage in a political process. We will continue to do so alongside South Sudan who have a shared interest in stability in Ethiopia.