Addis Ababa – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed expressed Ethiopia’s pursuit of peaceful access to the Red Sea, citing the necessity for a sea outlet to support the nation’s growing economy and expanding population of over 120 million.
Speaking before Parliament, PM Abiy emphasized Ethiopia’s commitment to a non-aggressive approach to realizing these strategic goals.
“We seek access to the Red Sea in a peaceful manner, as is fitting for a nation of our size and growing economy,” PM Abiy stated. “Our agenda is not about confrontation, but about ensuring economic growth and benefiting the Ethiopian people.”
The region has ample resource of sea access, he said, noting the Horn of Africa region has more than 5,000 kilometers of sea access stretching from Massawa to Mogadishu.
He went on to outline that Ethiopia’s interest in access to the Red Sea is a logical move for economic growth, and with the presence of such a long coastline within reach, the country remains committed to pursuing agreements that promote mutual benefit.
“Our approach is one of shared prosperity and respect for our neighbors,” PM Abiy remarked, pointing to Ethiopia’s ambitions for regional development.
He highlighted this vast region as a potential resource, stating, “With this extensive coastline within our neighborhood, we see a wealth of opportunities for trade and cooperation that can uplift not only Ethiopia but the entire region.”
The Prime Minister reiterated that Ethiopia’s commitment to peaceful engagement remains steadfast, seeking to create a strong foundation for trade routes that could transform the Horn of Africa into a hub of growth and connectivity.
Regarding international standing, highlighting Ethiopia’s foreign policy principles, PM Abiy underscored the country’s willingness to work cooperatively with global powers from both the East and West.
He noted that Ethiopia’s relationship-building efforts with countries such as China, the United States, and various European states aim to further its development without favoritism or alignment conflicts.
“Our partnerships are based on mutual respect and national interest, not partisanship with west or east” he remarked, adding that Ethiopia’s economic reform has been substantially aided by both Eastern and Western allies.
Addressing regional ties, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to peaceful coexistence with neighboring countries, including Somalia, Eritrea, and Kenya.
He noted Ethiopia’s significant Somali community and affirmed that the country has no territorial ambitions or hidden agendas toward Somalia.
Next to Somalia itself we have the biggest Somali community in the world ,he said, adding “Somalia is a brotherly nation with whom we share historical and cultural ties,” he affirmed, while also stressing Ethiopia’s intention to ensure stability and prosperity across the region.
PM Abiy expressed optimism about Ethiopia’s recent entry into the BRICS bloc, positioning it as a strategic step towards strengthening the nation’s global economic influence.
Source: ENA
