Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed asserts that the nation seeks diplomatic solutions regarding sea access, distancing from the notion of war with Eritrea. Recent tensions in Tigray have heightened concerns of conflict resurgence. Abiy emphasized development over conflict, advocating for negotiations based on mutual benefit.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia has affirmed that his nation has no desire to instigate a conflict with Eritrea to secure access to the sea. He emphasized that Ethiopia views the matter as one that should be approached through diplomatic channels, asserting that focus should be on mutual development rather than conflict. In his remarks to parliament, Abiy mentioned that negotiations should be grounded in a principle of reciprocity.
Abiy’s comments come in light of heightened concerns regarding renewed conflict between Ethiopia and Eritrea, especially following past hostile relations. His assertion reflected an effort to quell fears that Ethiopia may resort to force, particularly after he previously labeled sea access as an “existential issue” for the landlocked nation. He remarked, “What the Eritrean people need is development, not conflict. Our plan is not to fight but to work together and grow together.”
Despite his calls for dialogue, Abiy noted that discussions around seaport access should not be regarded as controversial, stating that global standards typically support the notion that larger nations require maritime avenues. The backdrop for these statements includes fears of a resurgence of conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, where a civil war that ended in late 2022 has seen tensions re-emerge.
Accusations have surfaced regarding Eritrean interference in Tigray’s internal affairs, particularly following remarks from Tigray’s Interim President, Getachew Reda, who implied that rival factions may have collaborated with Eritrea during the civil strife. In response, Eritrea’s Foreign Minister Osman Saleh rejected these claims of involvement in the region’s tumultuous politics.
Meanwhile, Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Gedion Timotewos expressed concerns about potential links between Tigray factions and Eritrea, although he refrained from disclosing further information. Eritrea’s separation from Ethiopia in the 1990s culminated in the loss of Ethiopia’s sea access, leading to a border conflict that lasted from 1998 to 2000. Although some diplomatic strides were made in 2018 under Abiy’s leadership, numerous changes have since unraveled, casting a shadow over the relationship between the two nations.
In summary, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has clearly stated Ethiopia’s intention to pursue diplomatic solutions regarding access to the sea with Eritrea, distancing his government from any aggressive postures. The delicate balance of peace in the region is threatened by accusations of interference and renewed tensions in Tigray. While calls for collaboration for mutual development are made, the historical complexities and current political dynamics between the two countries remain significant issues to address to maintain stability.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
