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Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed recently addressed lawmakers about the ongoing tensions with neighboring Somalia regarding Ethiopia’s efforts to secure direct access to the Red Sea. PM Abiy emphasized that the issues between the two countries could be easily resolved through direct communication, rather than Somalia accusing Ethiopia by going around other countries.
Abiy stressed that Ethiopia has no intention of causing any harm to the Somali government and suggested that the money spent on such accusations could be better utilized for the benefit of the people in Mogadishu. He reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to a neighbor-centered foreign policy approach and highlighted the country’s support for Somalia’s unity and empowerment.
The Prime Minister also addressed concerns about the Memorandum of Understanding signed with Somaliland, clarifying that it was done out of necessity due to a lack of response from neighboring countries. Abiy firmly denied accusations of Ethiopia working towards the disintegration of Somalia, emphasizing Ethiopia’s interest in gaining sea access as a legitimate national concern.
Abiy reiterated that Ethiopia is willing to engage in peaceful discussions to address the issue of sea access and emphasized the importance of cooperation for the prosperity of the region. He called for a win-win approach for mutual benefit and expressed Ethiopia’s readiness to work together with its neighbors towards a peaceful resolution.
Recent talks between the foreign ministers of Ethiopia and Somalia in Türkiye aimed at addressing their differences with Türkiye acting as a mediator. The ruling Prosperity Party also expressed its commitment towards practical agreements while seeking additional options for port access with neighboring countries.
Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s statements reflect the country’s desire for peaceful resolutions and cooperation with its neighbors, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in addressing regional concerns.
