Ethiopia (Kaab TV) – Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has once again reiterated his call for stronger regional integration in the Horn of Africa and for Ethiopia to secure access to the Red Sea through peaceful means based on dialogue, negotiation, and mutual understanding. He described such access as essential to his country’s long-term survival and development.
The Prime Minister made these remarks while presenting a performance report of his administration to the Ethiopian Parliament, during a question-and-answer session with members of the House of People’s Representatives.
Speaking about regional diplomacy, Abiy noted that countries of the Horn of Africa share deep cultural, linguistic, and historical ties, yet remain divided by foreign interference and competing interests. He emphasized that neighboring states should prioritize cooperation over rivalry and conflict.
“Our region is indivisible,” the Prime Minister said, urging Ethiopia, Somalia, Djibouti, Sudan, and Kenya to give priority to collaboration free from external agendas.
Abiy Ahmed also addressed Ethiopia’s efforts to secure sea access, describing the issue as critical to both national security and economic development. Ethiopia became landlocked in 1993 following Eritrea’s independence.
He acknowledged that sentiments surrounding the port of Assab have existed for a long time, but said that Ethiopia’s formal demand for maritime access only became explicit last year.
The Prime Minister stressed that Ethiopia—home to nearly 130 million people—is seeking a peaceful, negotiated solution based on dialogue and mutual benefit rather than the use of force.
He noted that Ethiopia is open to offering neighboring countries shares in major national assets, such as the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) or Ethiopian Airlines, as well as lease agreements or land swaps.
“We do not want to take anything by force,” he said. “This issue can be resolved through the principles of trade, peace, and dialogue.”