Ethiopia’s Prime Minister, Abiy Ahmed, has firmly stated that his country has no intention of engaging in war with neighbouring Eritrea to secure access to the sea. His comments, made during a parliamentary session on Thursday March 20, come after a previous 2023 statement, which described access to a seaport as an “existential issue” for Ethiopia. Raising concerns that Ethiopia might attempt to seize one by force. Abiy clarified that Ethiopia is committed to resolving the issue diplomatically, seeking a mutually beneficial solution with Eritrea.
“We intend to negotiate based on the principle of give and take,” Abiy said, emphasising that the Eritrean people need development, not conflict. “Our plan is not to fight but to work together and grow together.” He also stressed that discussions around maritime access should not be considered taboo, noting that global norms support the notion that larger nations require sea access. Abiy’s remarks aim to quell growing concerns that tensions between the two countries, which have a history of conflict, might escalate into another war.
The backdrop to Abiy’s comments includes recent fears of renewed conflict following the end of Ethiopia’s two-year civil war in the northern Tigray region in November 2022. The peace deal that ended the conflict has since been undermined by political rifts within Tigray, and there are concerns that Eritrea could become involved again, given its past support for Ethiopia during the war. While Eritrean officials have denied any interference, allegations persist, with Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister suggesting some factions in Tigray may have links to Eritrea. Despite this, Abiy remains focused on diplomacy as the path forward for his country’s sea access.