Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia stated that the country does not seek war with Eritrea over access to the sea. He emphasized diplomatic solutions for mutual benefit, addressing rising tensions surrounding the Tigray region and allegations of Eritrean involvement. Despite historic tensions, Abiy advocates for cooperation and development over conflict.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia has asserted that his nation does not intend to initiate conflict with neighboring Eritrea over access to the sea. Earlier in 2023, his remarks regarding seaport access being an “existential issue” raised alarm about a potential military confrontation. During a parliamentary session, Abiy emphasized the necessity of resolving the sea access dilemma through diplomatic means, advocating for mutual benefit.
Abiy articulated, “Our intention is to negotiate based on the principle of give and take. What the Eritrean people need is development, not conflict. Our plan is not to fight but to work together and grow together.” He acknowledged that discussions regarding seaports should not be considered prohibited, highlighting that international norms support maritime access for large countries.
Amidst rising tensions, anxieties have emerged regarding the potential resumption of conflict in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region, possibly involving Eritrea. The civil war, which resulted in numerous casualties, concluded in November 2022, yet the peace accord’s integrity is increasingly at risk due to political disputes in Tigray. Allegations of Eritrean involvement in Tigray’s internal discord were made by Tigray’s Interim President Getachew Reda, who claimed that external actors are exploiting the chaos.
Eritrea’s Foreign Minister Osman Saleh refuted these claims, stating that Eritrea “categorically rejects” any suggestions of its involvement in Ethiopia’s internal conflicts. Furthermore, Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Gedion Timotewos expressed concerns that one faction in Tigray may have ties to Eritrea. This situation mirrors a historical backdrop, as Eritrea gained independence from Ethiopia in the 1990s, which ended Ethiopia’s direct access to the sea, further complicating bilateral relations that had normalized in 2018 under Abiy’s leadership.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has clarified Ethiopia’s position against initiating military conflict with Eritrea over sea access. His focus on diplomacy and mutual growth aims to alleviate fears of renewed hostilities. However, escalating tensions in the Tigray region, coupled with allegations of Eritrean involvement, necessitate cautious navigation of the geopolitical landscape between the two nations.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
