Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed emphasized the country’s desire for peaceful negotiations with Eritrea regarding access to the sea, rejecting war. Although he noted that seaport access is crucial, the focus remains on mutual development. Tensions in Tigray and allegations of Eritrean interference complicate the situation, underscoring the need for diplomacy.
Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed of Ethiopia has firmly stated that the nation seeks to avoid war with Eritrea, emphasizing that the objective is not to engage in conflict for maritime access. His remarks were made during a parliamentary session amid rising apprehensions regarding potential renewed hostilities between the two countries, which share a complex historical relationship.
Abiy Ahmed had previously noted that having a seaport is an “existential issue” for Ethiopia, which is currently landlocked; however, he clarified that this matter should be negotiated diplomatically. He asserted, “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.”
Despite his peaceful overtures, the Prime Minister indicated that discussions regarding access to a seaport should not be considered off-limits, recognizing that maritime access is a necessity for large nations. The recent backdrop includes fears of renewed conflict stemming from Ethiopia’s northern Tigray region, where previous clashes resulted in significant loss of life.
Abiy’s comments come as tensions within Tigray intensify, with accusations of external interference, particularly from Eritrea. The Interim President of Tigray, Getachew Reda, accused rivals of aligning with Eritrea, alleging that this neighboring country exploits the turmoil for its own gain. Eritrea’s Foreign Minister Osman Saleh, however, rejected these claims, asserting that his country is not involved in Tigray’s internal disputes.
In a similar vein, Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister, Gedion Timotewos, suggested that there are factions within Tigray with potential links to Eritrea, although he refrained from providing specifics. Following Eritrea’s secession from Ethiopia in the 1990s, both nations experienced conflict, including a border war from 1998 to 2000. Although relations were normalized in 2018 under Abiy’s leadership, recent events hint at a deterioration of the previously established peace.
In summary, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has expressed his intent to pursue diplomatic solutions rather than military conflict with Eritrea over access to the sea. While recognizing this is a vital issue for Ethiopia, he underscores the importance of collaboration and mutual development. Nonetheless, rising tensions in the Tigray region and accusations of external involvement highlight ongoing complexities in the relationship between Ethiopia and Eritrea, necessitating continued dialogue and caution.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
