Ethiopia Asserts Commitment to Diplomacy with Eritrea Amid Tensions

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed declared that his country desires diplomatic solutions rather than conflict with Eritrea regarding sea access. His remarks counter previous fears of possible aggression, emphasizing the need for cooperation instead of warfare. Meanwhile, recent tensions related to Tigray’s political landscape have raised concerns about Eritrea’s involvement, which Eritrean authorities denied.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia has emphasized that his nation does not intend to instigate a war with Eritrea in pursuit of achieving sea access. He addressed the parliament, responding to concerns raised by a previous statement made in 2023, which described access to a seaport as an “existential issue” for Ethiopia. Such remarks had prompted fears that Ethiopia might resort to military action, given the historically tumultuous relationship between the two nations.

Abiy articulated that the matter of sea access must be addressed through diplomatic channels and mutual cooperation, stating, “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 underscored that discussions about seaport access should not be considered off-limits, as global standards advocate for maritime access for significant landlocked nations.

Concerns have mounted over the potential resurgence of conflict in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region, which could involve Eritrea. The Tigray Civil War, which concluded in November 2022, resulted in a devastating loss of life and has seen recent tensions arise, particularly among Tigrayan politics. Allegations have circulated that Eritrea is meddling in these internal affairs, with Tigray’s Interim President, Getachew Reda, claiming collusion with Eritrean forces.

In response, Eritrea’s Foreign Minister Osman Saleh categorically denied any involvement in the internal conflicts of northern Ethiopia during a diplomatic meeting in Asmara. Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timotewos echoed similar suspicions, asserting that one of the factions in Tigray appears to have ties to Eritrea, although he did not specify further details.

The relationship between Eritrea and Ethiopia has been fraught since Eritrea gained independence from Ethiopia in the 1990s, leading to Ethiopia losing its coastline. Following a two-year border war in the late 1990s, relations initially improved in 2018 under Prime Minister Abiy’s leadership, but subsequent political developments have led to a deterioration of these relations.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed confirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to resolving its maritime access concerns with Eritrea through diplomatic means rather than warfare. While tensions remain following historical conflicts and recent allegations of Eritrean involvement in Tigray’s political struggles, both nations must seek productive dialogue to ensure stability and mutual development. The focus on negotiation is essential for fostering peace as Ethiopia navigates its complex regional relationships.

Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke