Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has stated that the country does not intend to start a war with Eritrea for sea access, advocating for diplomatic resolution. Recent tensions within Tigray and accusations of Eritrean interference complicate the relationship; however, Abiy emphasizes collaboration over conflict.
Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has firmly stated that his nation does not intend to commence a war with Eritrea to secure coastal access. His declaration follows a previous remark made in 2023, wherein he described a seaport as an “existential issue” for Ethiopia, raising concerns about potential military aggression. Abiy emphasized the need for resolving sea access issues through diplomacy and mutual benefits during recent parliamentary discussions, amid apprehensions of renewed conflict between the historically contentious neighbors.
The Prime Minister declared, “Our intention is to negotiate based on the principle of give and take. What the Eritrean people need is development, not conflict.” He highlighted that collaboration and shared growth are preferable to hostilities while maintaining that discussions around the need for maritime access should not be considered off-limits. Abiy’s remarks came in the context of rising worries that renewed violence in northeastern Ethiopia, particularly surrounding Tigray, may draw Eritrea into the situation.
The Ethiopian civil war, which concluded in November 2022 with a fragile peace deal yielding significant casualties, has seen tensions resurface among Tigrayan political factions. Getachew Reda, Tigray’s Interim President, accused rival politicians of collaborating with Eritrea, claiming the latter aims to exploit instability for its benefit. Despite these allegations, Eritrea’s Foreign Minister Osman Saleh has denied any involvement, stating that Eritrea “categorically rejects” claims of interference.
Furthermore, Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Gedion Timotewos hinted at potential Eritrean connections to one faction in Tigray without disclosing specifics. Eritrea’s relationship with Ethiopia soured after its secession in the 1990s, followed by a border conflict from 1998 to 2000. Although normalized relations emerged in 2018, following Abiy’s ascension, many progressive changes have since regressed.
In summary, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has asserted that Ethiopia seeks to avoid military conflict with Eritrea over access to the sea, emphasizing diplomacy as a solution. Recent tensions indicate complex political dynamics within Tigray, with allegations of Eritrean involvement. Despite past hostilities, both nations seem to be navigating a delicate path toward potential collaboration. Abiy’s comments reflect the importance of development over conflict, highlighting the necessity for constructive dialogue in addressing regional disputes.
Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke
