Ethiopian PM Abiy Ahmed Asserts Desire for Peace with Eritrea

Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed asserts the nation does not seek war with Eritrea over maritime access, emphasizing diplomacy for resolution. Despite fears of renewed conflict due to tensions in Tigray, discussions regarding sea access should remain open. Eritrea denies involvement in Ethiopia’s internal political issues, while accusations persist regarding its influence in Tigray’s divisions.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has publicly stated that his country does not seek war with Eritrea in its pursuit of maritime access. Despite previous comments regarding the critical nature of a seaport for Ethiopia, which raised fears of a potential conflict, his recent address to Parliament emphasized a commitment to resolving the issue through diplomacy. Abiy articulated a vision rooted in cooperation and mutual development, urging that discussions on seaport access remain open rather than taboo.

Tensions remain due to historical conflicts and fears of resumed hostilities, particularly linked to the recent strife in Ethiopia’s Tigray region. While the civil war that ended in November 2022 inflicted massive losses, political disagreements have surfaced again. The Tigrayan Interim President has accused rivals of collaborating with Eritrea, raising suspicions that Eritrea might exploit the turmoil in Tigray for its own objectives.

Eritrea’s Foreign Minister Osman Saleh has categorically dismissed accusations of involvement in Ethiopia’s internal issues. Meanwhile, Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Gedion Timotewos has insinuated links between one Tigrayan faction and Eritrea, though details remain scarce. Since Eritrea’s secession from Ethiopia in the 1990s and the subsequent border war, relations have fluctuated, with previous normalization in 2018 deteriorating in recent times.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s assertion that Ethiopia does not desire conflict with Eritrea marks a crucial stance as tensions continue to linger between the two nations. Emphasizing diplomacy over military action, Abiy advocates for cooperative solutions regarding access to the sea. However, persistent allegations and historical grievances complicate the dynamics, suggesting that peace and stability in the region require careful navigation and dialogue.

Original Source: www.bbc.com