Ethiopia’s Leadership Emphasizes Diplomacy Over Warfare with Eritrea

Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated that the nation does not intend to engage in warfare with Eritrea over sea access, emphasizing the importance of diplomacy. He advocated for negotiations based on mutual benefits and dismissed fears of imminent conflict, particularly concerning allegations of Eritrean interference in Tigray’s politics. The historical backdrop highlights the longstanding tension between the two countries since Eritrea gained independence in the 1990s.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia has affirmed that his country does not seek to engage in war with neighboring Eritrea for access to maritime routes. In light of previous assertions made in 2023 concerning the necessity of a seaport, his remarks aimed to alleviate concerns regarding potential military conflict over this issue. Abiy’s statement to parliament emphasized diplomacy and cooperation as vital in addressing Ethiopia’s needs as a landlocked nation.

During his address, Abiy articulated that the resolution regarding sea access should be pursued through diplomatic negotiations prioritizing mutual benefit. “Our intention is to negotiate based on the principle of give and take. What the Eritrean people need is development, not conflict,” he stated, expressing a desire for collaborative growth rather than hostilities. He further noted that discussions regarding access to a seaport should not be considered taboo, stressing the importance of maritime access for large nations.

Recent apprehensions about renewed conflict between Ethiopia and Eritrea stem from the ongoing tensions in Ethiopia’s Tigray region, where fears have arisen of the previous civil war resuming. Despite the two-year civil conflict ending in November 2022, cracks in the peace agreement have begun to surface, notably with accusations directed at Eritrea regarding interference in Tigray’s internal politics.

Getachew Reda, Tigray’s Interim President, has alleged that opposition figures are collaborating with Eritrea, which had previously supported the Ethiopian federal government during the civil unrest. He stated, “We have reason to believe external actors are involved,” suggesting that Eritrea perceives benefits from instability in Tigray. However, Eritrea’s Foreign Minister Osman Saleh has categorically denied any involvement in the tensions erupting within northern Ethiopia, countering allegations presented by Ethiopian officials.

The lengthy historical backdrop includes Eritrea’s secession from Ethiopia in the 1990s, which deprived Ethiopia of direct access to the sea, culminating in a two-year border war from 1998. Although relations began to normalize in 2018 with Abiy’s ascent to leadership, many of the subsequent advancements have faltered in recent times.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has reassured that Ethiopia aims to avoid conflict with Eritrea over maritime access, advocating for diplomacy as the path forward. While tensions remain high, particularly relating to the situation in Tigray and alleged Eritrean involvement, both nations appear to recognize the necessity for cooperative dialogue. The historical context surrounding their relationship underscores the complexities involved as Ethiopia seeks to navigate its landlocked status without conflict.

Original Source: www.capitalfm.co.ke