Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) emphasized that Ethiopia’s pursuit of peaceful access to the sea is gaining significant international recognition.
Responding to questions raised from members of parliament at the 21st regular session of the Ethiopian parliament today, Premier Abiy addressed a range of issues, including economic reforms, politics, peace and security, and diplomacy, among others.
On the topic of diplomacy, the Prime Minister explained that Ethiopia’s desire is to engage in dialogue and discussion regarding access to a sea port.
Ethiopia’s pursuit of peaceful access to the sea is gaining significant international recognition, the premier stressed.
He pointed out that Ethiopia’s request for maritime access is justified by the international community, noting that no other landlocked nation surpasses Ethiopia in size.
Abiy reiterated the potential for constructive dialogue regarding the Red Sea and the Abay River, advocating for the principle of give and take approach to these shared resources.
He emphasized that access to the Sea is an existential matter for Ethiopia, but reiterated that the country aims to peacefully resolve the issue.
#Ethiopia’s desire access to the red sea will not drag the country in confrontation with #Somalia, #Djibouti, #Eritrea and #Kenya.
Instead, there is significant potential for collaboration and mutual benefit if we can achieve a shared understanding, the premier elaborated.
If the Red Sea issue is not resolved through dialogue, he warned, it will become a burden for future generations.
However, he reiterated that Ethiopia’s approach is to find a peaceful resolution through negotiations and dialogue.
Speaking on GERD’s current status, Prime Minister Abiy said that the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is a pride for Africa. GERD is where Ethiopia has shown its capability; it is also where we have corrected our mistakes, said the Prime Minister.
He indicated that this significant development project will soon be inaugurated, emphasizing that the dam will also provide substantial advantages to neighboring countries downstream.
Prime Minister Abiy assured that the water levels at the Aswan Dam remain unaffected despite the GERD’s filling.
FBC
