How did the 2018 peace process between Eritrea and Ethiopia begin?

The 2018 peace process between Eritrea and Ethiopia was initiated following significant political changes in Ethiopia. After taking office in April 2018, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed prioritized resolving the long-standing conflict between the two nations.12

On June 5, 2018, Abiy extended a significant diplomatic olive branch by announcing that Ethiopia would fully abide by the terms of the 2000 peace agreement, which had been intended to end the war between the two countries. Crucially, he pledged to accept and implement the 2002 border demarcation ruling, which Ethiopia had previously rejected.132

This commitment triggered a rapid series of diplomatic actions:
* High-level meetings: In early July 2018, Abiy and Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki met in Eritrea to discuss normalizing relations.12
* Restoration of ties: The leaders agreed to reopen borders and resume communication, transportation, and trade links.13
* Formal declaration: On July 9, 2018, the two leaders issued a historic joint statement declaring that the 20-year state of war between their countries had officially ended.12