April 9, 2025
By: Getahun Tsegaye
Staff Reporter
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The Ethiopian federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to securing access to the sea through diplomatic, legal, and peaceful means, following a high-level National Security Council meeting held today in Addis Ababa.
Chaired by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the session brought together top federal and military officials, including Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, Chief of General Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces. The meeting focused on national priorities and evolving regional and global dynamics affecting Ethiopia’s strategic direction.
In a statement issued after the meeting, the Council stressed that Ethiopia’s pursuit of sea access is a matter of rightful interest and national dignity, aligning with global norms where large countries maintain access to maritime routes.
“The work initiated to ensure Ethiopia’s right to sea access through diplomacy, law, and peaceful avenues will continue with greater clarity and focus,” the statement read.
The Council also underscored Ethiopia’s intention to maintain policy independence, safeguard national interests, and play a constructive role in international affairs. It called on the global community to support Ethiopia’s efforts in promoting peace and regional stability.
At the same time, the Council warned against domestic and foreign entities attempting to impose their interests by force, including through misinformation, cyberattacks, and illegal networks. Though no countries were named, the statement pointed to the involvement of both legacy and emerging global alliances in destabilizing efforts.
On internal matters, the Council noted progress in resolving conflicts through peaceful political dialogue and traditional mechanisms. However, it vowed firm action against any groups resorting to violence.
“The journey toward national dialogue and stability is bearing fruit,” the statement said, “but we must also be prepared to respond firmly to those who reject peace and seek to impose their will through violence.”
Background:
The statement comes in the wake of the Ankara Declaration, signed December last year by leaders of Ethiopia, Somalia, and Turkey, reaffirming mutual respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity. The agreement laid the groundwork for technical negotiations on Ethiopia’s sea access, set to begin in February 2025.
This diplomatic breakthrough followed heightened tensions in 2024 after Ethiopia signed an MoU with Somaliland to lease coastline in exchange for recognizing its independence—a move Somalia condemned. Relations improved in January 2025 after Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud visited Ethiopia, leading to the restoration of full diplomatic ties and agreement on enhanced regional cooperation.
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