Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has affirmed that Ethiopia will not pursue conflict with Eritrea over access to the Red Sea, emphasizing dialogue as the preferred approach. This came amid rising tensions following Eritrea’s military mobilization and Ethiopia’s troop deployment. The situation surrounding Tigray further complicates regional dynamics, stressing the need for peaceful resolutions and internal stability.
Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has committed to a peaceful resolution regarding access to the Red Sea, dismissing concerns of potential conflict with Eritrea. He emphasized that Ethiopia has no intention of engaging in warfare to secure maritime access, preferring dialogue as a means of addressing these vital issues.
This assertion follows increased tensions in the region, as Eritrea recently initiated military mobilization and Ethiopia positioned troops near the border. Diplomatic resources indicate that these developments have heightened fears of a potential conflict between the two nations over territorial disputes.
Eritrea’s Information Minister, Yemane Gebremeskel, criticized Ethiopia’s aspirations for Red Sea access and insisted on the importance of respecting regional sovereignty. He characterized accusations of war preparations by Eritrea against Ethiopia as unfounded and called on the international community to intervene to uphold territorial integrity.
In the context of regional stability, potential renewed hostilities could undermine the peace agreement established in 2022 following the Tigray conflict, which involved Eritrean forces on Ethiopia’s side against the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). This escalated tension risks igniting broader military engagement between the nations.
Abiy Ahmed also addressed the situation within Tigray, stating the extension of the interim administration by a year based on the Pretoria agreement, which has led to internal disputes over leadership among Tigray factions. Negotiations for maintaining order and ensuring representation in the administration remain imperative as Ethiopia approaches its next general election in 2026.
In summary, Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has advocated for a peaceful resolution to disputes with Eritrea regarding Red Sea access, prioritizing dialogue over conflict. Amidst rising tensions, both nations possess grievances that complicate regional stability. Fostering diplomatic relations and addressing internal Tigrayan conflicts are critical to avoiding further escalation and ensuring peace.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
