Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Affirms Desire for Peaceful Relations with Eritrea
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia has declared that the country does not seek war with Eritrea over maritime access. He emphasized diplomacy over conflict and the need for negotiations that benefit both nations. Despite ongoing tensions related to the Tigray region, Abiy stressed the importance of working collaboratively to achieve development and stability, while addressing historical complexities in the relationship between the two countries.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has asserted that Ethiopia does not wish to engage in conflict with Eritrea concerning access to maritime resources. While addressing parliament, he clarified that although the country views possession of a seaport as vital, intentions to acquire one through force are absent. Ahmed emphasized that issues regarding sea access should be tackled through diplomatic discussions aimed at mutual benefit.
The Prime Minister stated, “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 acknowledged that discussions about a seaport should be approached candidly, highlighting the global understanding that larger nations typically require maritime access.
Currently, fears persist that tensions might reignite between Ethiopia and Eritrea, particularly in light of the ongoing unrest in Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region, which previously experienced a devastating civil war. The peace established in November 2022 appears to be deteriorating as political divisions resurface, with accusations of Eritrean interference in Tigrayan affairs being made.
Tigray’s Interim President, Getachew Reda, has accused rivals of collaborating with Eritrea, suggesting that Eritrean interests may be influencing the instability in Tigray. Conversely, Eritrea’s Foreign Minister Osman Saleh has refuted these allegations, categorically denying involvement in the region’s disputes. Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister Gedion Timotewos, however, expressed concerns regarding potential ties between a Tigrayan faction and Eritrea.
The historical context is crucial, as Eritrea gained independence from Ethiopia in the 1990s, leading to Ethiopia losing its seacoast. Following a border war in 1998, relations improved in 2018 under Abiy’s leadership, yet many of the advancements have faced challenges since then.
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In conclusion, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s statements affirm Ethiopia’s commitment to resolving maritime access issues with Eritrea through peaceful negotiation rather than military action. Amid rising tensions linked to the Tigray conflict, allegations of external interference highlight the potential fragility of the regional peace. Both countries must navigate historical grievances while prioritizing development and collaboration for a stable future. The necessity of constructive dialogue remains paramount as the nations work towards mutual understanding.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
