Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Affirms Commitment to Peaceful Resolution with Eritrea
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stated that Ethiopia does not intend to invade Eritrea for Red Sea access, which he deems essential. He encouraged negotiations to benefit both countries and warned against ignoring tensions. External parties were urged to avoid provocations, with Abiy emphasizing peace and mutual growth as priorities.
On Thursday, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed addressed the Ethiopian parliament, asserting that the nation does not intend to invade Eritrea for access to the Red Sea, labeling this access as “existential” for Ethiopia. He emphasized the importance of negotiating solutions based on mutual benefit and warned of the long-term consequences of avoiding discussions. “If we ignore this today, it will create problems in the future,” he stated, stressing the importance of dialogue over conflict.
Tensions between Ethiopia and Eritrea have recently escalated, with Eritrean Foreign Minister Osman Saleh expressing confusion over Ethiopia’s ambitions for maritime access. He cautioned against any efforts, whether diplomatic or military, to achieve this goal. Meanwhile, leaders from the Tigray Interim Administration indicated that conflict appears likely, with Tigray being a potential battleground.
U.S. Senator James Risch raised concerns about the rising tensions and their potential for catastrophic outcomes, urging both Ethiopia and Eritrea to de-escalate. In his remarks, Abiy rejected the notion of Ethiopian hostility towards Eritrea, describing the Eritrean people as kindred spirits. “What is needed is economic progress, not war,” he remarked, emphasizing a cooperative approach toward development.
While Abiy reassured that Ethiopia is prepared to regard itself, he clarified that this readiness is defensive. “We do not have any fear—this must be underlined,” he indicated, adding that Ethiopia aims to prevent rather than initiate conflict. He highlighted the country’s commitment to peace and development, citing Ethiopia’s previous non-military engagements in the region.
Additionally, Abiy cautioned against external provocations, insisting on the need for no instigation from any party. He outlined that Ethiopia’s pursuit of Red Sea access reflects a national priority, one that he asserts cannot be impeded by its population of 130 million nd current economic aspirations. He called for a peaceful resolution, urging the international community to consider Ethiopia’s needs while ensuring mutual benefits for neighboring nations.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s statements reflect Ethiopia’s commitment to peaceful dialogue regarding maritime access while rejecting any notion of military conquest. Balancing regional tensions, he advocates for understanding and cooperation. As fears of conflict loom, he insists on national priorities, urging both internal and external parties to prioritize peace for the collective benefit of the region.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
