Ethiopia Seeks Sea Access Amidst Regional Tensions with Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia

Ethiopia is determined to secure sea access despite opposition from Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia. Field Marshal Birhanu Jula claims the quest for such access is just and globally acknowledged. Recent discussions between Ethiopia and Somalia may signal progress, although neighboring nations have formed an alliance to counter Ethiopia’s aspirations. International mediation efforts are underway amidst rising tensions in the region.

Ethiopia is resolutely pursuing access to the sea amid ongoing tensions with neighboring countries, as stated by Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, head of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF). He labeled the absence of sea access as ‘unjust’ and emphasized the importance of this issue, which he claims is increasingly recognized as valid within the global community. His remarks were made during the commemoration of the 129th anniversary of the Adowa Victory.

The Ethiopian army chief expressed confidence in their potential to join the Red Sea community soon, following recent technical discussions between Ethiopia and Somalia in Ankara regarding Ethiopia’s sea access request. He indicated that Ethiopia is preparing to defend itself against external threats and is building a military capable of both deterrence and defense.

This statement comes as Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel-Atty and Eritrean President Isaias Afwerki reaffirmed their opposition to any non-coastal nations’ involvement in Red Sea security and governance, a stance directed against Ethiopia. This announcement followed recent talks that covered regional developments.

In early 2024, Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia formed a Tripartite alliance, with the intention of preventing military presence from any non-littoral states in the Red Sea. The alliance was solidified during a ministerial committee meeting in Cairo, where Abdel-Atty stressed the necessity of respecting Somalia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Ethiopia had also entered into an agreement with Somaliland for the use of 20 kilometers of the Red Sea in return for recognition of Somaliland’s sovereignty. This arrangement drew protests from Somalia, which called for international intervention, leading to Turkey’s mediation and the establishment of dialogue.

Ethiopia is actively pursuing access to the sea while facing opposition from Egypt, Eritrea, and Somalia. The situation highlights geopolitical tensions in the Horn of Africa, particularly regarding territorial sovereignty and national interests. The formation of the Tripartite alliance reflects a unified stance against Ethiopia’s ambitions, emphasizing the region’s complex interplay of diplomacy and conflict.

Original Source: www.garoweonline.com