Addis Ababa — The European Union (EU) has expressed Monday its concern over the recently reported military build-up near the Ethio-Eritrea border.

"EU is particularly concerned about the recent military build-up on both sides of the border. Sustainable peace between the two countries is fundamental for national development and for the enhancement of peace and security in the region," EU said

EU, in its statement that was presented at the Annual Progress Report of Ethiopia's development also urged the two countries to refrain from any action that could lead to a resumption of hostilities.

"EU would like to reiterate its firm commitment to assist Ethiopia and Eritrea in finding a way forward to implementing the decision of the Boundary Commission. The EU acknowledges Ethiopia's government commitment to hold federal elections in May in a free and fair manner and in accordance with international standards," Rob Vermass, the Netherlands Ambassador to Ethiopia, representing the EU said.

"We expect the international observers to have full access to all relevant elements of the electoral process. For fair and transparent elections, the ensuring of transparency and building of confidence in the National Electoral Board is crucial, as well as ensuring a level playing field, including full access to media, for all political parties concerned."

EU has welcomed Ethiopia's five point peace proposal presented by the Prime Minister Meles Zenawi in November last year to end border row with Eritrea.

This week United Nations Mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea denied a report of troop's movement between the two countries.

EU also appreciated the quality of the political dialogue with the Ethiopian government under Article 8 of the Cotonou Agreement where these and other important issues, such as the protection and promotion of human rights and strengthening of the rule of law and the judiciary, have been discussed. EU is looking forward to a continuation and further intensification of this dialogue, it added.