Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has stated that Ethiopia does not seek war with Eritrea regarding maritime access. He emphasizes negotiations and mutual benefits instead of conflict. Rising tensions in Tigray have raised concerns of external interference, particularly from Eritrea, despite denial from Eritrean officials. Abiy’s vision focuses on development and cooperation rather than warfare.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has asserted that Ethiopia does not desire war with Eritrea, despite concerns regarding maritime access. In a recent statement, he emphasized that discussions surrounding access to a seaport should be conducted through diplomacy rather than conflict. Abiy noted that Ethiopia’s challenge as the world’s most populous landlocked nation must be viewed as an opportunity for mutual benefit and development rather than warfare.
Amid rising tensions, Abiy highlighted that the principle of negotiation based on mutual gain is essential. He expressed his intent to steer the focus away from hostilities, stating, “What the Eritrean people need is development, not conflict.” While advocating for diplomatic discussions, he acknowledged the necessity for larger nations to consider maritime access as an inherent right.
Recent fears have arisen regarding the potential resurgence of conflict in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, with the possibility of Eritrean involvement. Although a civil war that claimed countless lives concluded in November 2022, political disagreements have emerged, leading to accusations of Eritrea meddling in Tigray’s political landscape. Tigray’s Interim President, Getachew Reda, claimed that external actors, particularly Eritrea, might exploit the turmoil for their gain.
Eritrean Foreign Minister Osman Saleh refuted these allegations, categorically denying any involvement in the regional tensions. In contrast, Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Gedion Timotewos indicated suspicions of connections between a Tigray faction and Eritrea, though specifics were not disclosed. Ethiopia lost direct access to the sea following Eritrea’s secession in the 1990s, and relations have fluctuated since the reconciliation efforts in 2018 under Abiy’s leadership.
In summary, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed articulated Ethiopia’s commitment to resolving issues regarding maritime access to Eritrea through diplomatic avenues, rejecting the notion of conflict. The current regional tensions, especially involving Tigray, call for careful navigation to prevent the resurgence of hostilities. While accusations have arisen regarding Eritrea’s involvement in internal strife, both nations must prioritize dialogue for the sake of development and stability.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
