Bereket had harsh words for Ethiopia's Horn of Africa rival Eritrea, which the United States accuses of backing al-Shabab in Somalia.

VOA: standard.2009.08.20

Bereket says Ethiopia's military support mostly involves training forces loyal to the U.N.-backed transitional government.

VOA: standard.2009.08.20

Bereket categorically denied persistent reports that Ethiopian troops are actively engaged in Somalia's civil war.

VOA: standard.2009.08.20

But on Wednesday, Information Minister Bereket Simon said the ceremony had been postponed because people wanted more time to mourn Mr Meles' death, AP news agency reports.

BBC: Ethiopia funeral held for church patriarch Abune Paulos