Annan Expresses Concern about Border

A new report by the United Nations says the border stalemate between Eritrea and Ethiopia continues to pose a threat to the region’s stability. The report issued by Secretary-General Kofi Annan’s office says there have been improvements in the ability of UN monitors to move around Eritrea and Ethiopia. But it also notes that Eritrea continues to block the movement of UN peacekeepers on an the road from Asmara to Barentu, despite past requests to open the road. The mandate of the United Nations Mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea, or UNMEE, expires in September, but is likely to be renewed for six months.