Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed advocates for direct dialogue with Somalia over Red Sea access, emphasizing regional cooperation and efficient use of resources.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia addressed lawmakers today, emphasizing the need for direct dialogue with Somalia to resolve disputes concerning Ethiopia’s pursuit of direct access to the Red Sea. Abiy criticized the Somali government for seeking international support to accuse Ethiopia instead of engaging in straightforward discussions, which he believes could be settled with a brief meeting in Addis Ababa.
“My advice is don’t waste money; we spend money when we go around countries,” Abiy said, suggesting that resources would be better spent on local development projects such as building schools or infrastructure in Mogadishu. He reiterated that Ethiopia has no conflicts with the Somali government and expressed readiness for open discussions.
Abiy highlighted Ethiopia’s neighbor-centered and friendly foreign policy, noting the sacrifices Ethiopia has made for peace in Somalia. He affirmed Ethiopia’s respect for Somalia’s unity and dismissed accusations that Ethiopia seeks to dismantle Somalia, citing Ethiopia’s historical support and empowerment of the Somali nation.
Addressing a recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Somaliland, Abiy clarified that the agreement was pursued after receiving no responses from neighboring countries. He emphasized that Ethiopia’s request for sea access is a legitimate and peaceful question, intended to be resolved through dialogue and mutual benefit.
Abiy also pointed out that despite having better resources, Ethiopia is landlocked, while neighboring countries with sea access do not produce as much. He stressed the potential for regional cooperation, trade, and shared prosperity. “It is good to cooperate and march together, both for the region and the future of our children,” Abiy stated.
Reiterating Ethiopia’s commitment to peace, Abiy addressed the people of Eritrea, Djibouti, Kenya, Sudan, and Somalia, underscoring Ethiopia’s role as a protector rather than a destructive force. He emphasized the national interest in securing sea access and called for a win-win approach that avoids conflict and maximizes regional cooperation.
The Prime Minister also referenced ongoing discussions facilitated by Türkiye, with foreign ministers of Ethiopia and Somalia holding talks in Ankara to address their differences. This dialogue reflects Ethiopia’s willingness to explore practical agreements and secure port access through mutual understanding and negotiation.
In January, the ruling Prosperity Party (PP) resolved to bring the MoU to a practical agreement, while seeking additional port access options with neighboring countries. This resolution underscores Ethiopia’s strategic and diplomatic efforts to address its landlocked status and enhance regional connectivity.
Abiy concluded by reaffirming Ethiopia’s readiness for collaboration and peaceful resolution of disputes, advocating for direct engagement over international accusations to achieve common regional benefits.
