Senior Ethiopian military officials have described on March 10, the country’s quest for access to the Red Sea as a matter of national survival, sovereignty and long-term development.
Speaking at a national Symposium organised by the National Ethiopian Army Association, General Yimer Mekonnen, Head of Education and Training Main Department, said Ethiopia’s demand for maritime access is rooted in history rather than recent political ambition.
He noted that during the Axumite civilisation, ports such as Adulis and Zeila served as major trade gateways for Ethiopia. According to him, recognising Ethiopia’s right to utilise Red Sea Ports would strengthen the country’s economy and enhance trade linkages with global markets.
Also addressing the gathering, Major General Teshome Gemechu, Director-General for External Relations and Cooperation at the Ethiopian National Defence Force, said Ethiopia’s loss of direct sea access resulted from historical circumstances that detached the country from its natural maritime outlet.
Despite this, he stressed that Ethiopia remains committed to regaining access through peaceful and diplomatic means.
President of the National Ethiopian Army Association, Sergeant Birhanu Amare, emphasised that the pursuit of maritime access is a national interest that transcends political divisions.
He reaffirmed the association’s support for the Government and the leadership of Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, pledging that veterans would continue to stand behind efforts to secure Ethiopia’s strategic interests.
The symposium brought together members of the National Ethiopian Army Association from across the country to deliberate on Ethiopia’s long-standing aspiration for access to the Red Sea.