Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed emphasized that Ethiopia does not intend to engage in war with Eritrea for maritime access, advocating for diplomatic negotiations. Despite ongoing political tensions and accusations of Eritrean interference in Tigray’s affairs, the Prime Minister stresses collaboration over conflict as both nations seek development and stability.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has declared that Ethiopia has no intention of instigating a war with Eritrea to secure access to the sea. His remarks follow a previous assertion made in 2023, in which he highlighted the importance of a seaport for Ethiopia’s survival, leading to concerns of potential military action. In a recent parliamentary address, he emphasized the need for peaceful resolutions to the longstanding issues between the two nations, which have experienced a tumultuous history.
Prime Minister Abiy stated that the solution to Ethiopia’s maritime challenges should be founded on diplomatic engagement and mutual benefits. He articulated, “Our intention is to negotiate based on the principle of give and take. What the Eritrean people need is development, not conflict. Our plan is not to fight but to work together and grow together.” He further asserted that discussions on procuring a seaport should not be considered taboo as larger nations typically require maritime access according to global norms.
Recent developments have heightened fears of potential conflict due to ongoing tensions in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region, where a civil war that lasted two years ended in November 2022. Concerns have arisen regarding Eritrea’s involvement in internal disputes within Tigray, as accusations emerge implicating Eritrea’s interference. Getachew Reda, Tigray’s Interim President, accused rival factions of conspiring with Eritrea during a recent address.
Contradicting these accusations, Eritrea’s Foreign Minister Osman Saleh refuted claims of Eritrean involvement in Tigray’s unrest during diplomatic engagements in Asmara. Nevertheless, Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timotewos indicated suspicions of one Tigrayan faction having connections to Eritrea, although specifics were not disclosed. Since Eritrea’s secession from Ethiopia in the 1990s, Ethiopia has lost direct access to the sea, culminating in a two-year border conflict beginning in 1998. Relations between the two nations were normalized in 2018 under Abiy’s leadership, but several positive changes have since deteriorated.
In summary, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has reassured that Ethiopia does not seek military conflict with Eritrea regarding access to maritime routes. He advocates for diplomatic means to resolve such issues, emphasizing the necessity for collaborative growth. However, tensions remain high due to accusations of Eritrea’s covert involvement in Tigray’s political affairs and the legacy of historical animosities. The future of Ethiopia-Eritrea relations hinges on effective dialogue and cooperation.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
