Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has refuted claims of an impending invasion of Eritrea related to maritime access. He emphasized the need for peaceful negotiations despite rising tensions between the nations since Eritrea’s independence in 1993. Additionally, he addressed unrest in Tigray, expressing confidence in a resolution and possible leadership changes in the region.
On Thursday, Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed firmly stated that Ethiopia will not pursue an invasion of Eritrea, despite ongoing aspirations for access to the sea and heightened border tensions. Relations between the two nations have been precarious since Eritrea’s independence in 1993, and although a peace agreement was established in 2018, new hostilities have emerged concerning Ethiopia’s quest for maritime access, which Eritrea views with suspicion, particularly regarding its Assab port.
During a parliamentary address, Prime Minister Abiy acknowledged the prevailing fears of potential conflict, asserting, “I want to assure you that Ethiopia will not invade Eritrea to get access to the Red Sea.” He emphasized Ethiopia’s urgent need for coastal access while advocating for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
Earlier in the week, Eritrean officials called on the international community to encourage Ethiopia to respect their sovereignty, reflecting anxieties surrounding Ethiopia’s maritime ambitions. Past support from Eritrea during Ethiopia’s Tigray war (2020-2022) has complicated the dynamics, with rising tensions due to recent unrest in Tigray that may allow Eritrea to capitalize on the situation.
Prime Minister Abiy expressed his belief that the turmoil in Tigray, which has erupted from a leadership power struggle between Getachew Reda and Debretsion Gebremichael, “will be resolved shortly.” He assured that the Ethiopian government is engaged in discussions with significant regional stakeholders and intends to make an announcement soon regarding the situation.
Abiy expressed support for Reda while suggesting possible alterations in the region’s governance, stating, “There may be changes in the administrators and structures.” Recent conflicts have resulted in Debretsion’s armed faction gaining control of municipal areas, increasing concerns about renewed violence among communities still reeling from the previous Tigray conflict.
Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has reiterated that the country will not initiate an invasion of Eritrea, amid existing aspirations for sea access. His assurances come in response to rising tensions and concerns from Eritrea regarding sovereignty. The region is currently navigating instability in Tigray, which Abiy is confident will soon be managed, although the implications for leadership changes remain uncertain. Amid these developments, both nations seek a path towards peaceful resolutions.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
