Addis Ababa:Honorary members of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) have publicly endorsed Ethiopia's ambition for sovereign access to the Red Sea. Their advocacy emphasizes the need for peaceful diplomacy and dialogue with neighboring nations, alongside a strengthened national resolve.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, these honorary members, including Biniyam Getachew and Afewerk Bedewi, received recognition from Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, Chief of General Staff of the ENDF, during the 119th anniversary celebration of the FDRE Defense Forces Day. Their contributions to the defense force through media platforms were acknowledged with honorary membership.
The members highlighted the importance of public awareness and collective effort in supporting Ethiopia's maritime goals. Biniyam Getachew, president of the Ethiopian Global Youth Group, stressed the necessity of negotiations and constructive engagement with neighboring countries, particularly Eritrea, to achieve Red Sea access peacefully. He called for mutual respect and cooperation, underlining that the people of Ethiopia and Eritrea share a brotherly relationship.
Afewerk Bedewi, a political analyst, emphasized national resolve, military discipline, and collective commitment in pursuing Ethiopia's strategic interests. He urged young Ethiopians to understand the significance of maritime access and the implications of Ethiopia's landlocked status. Afewerk argued that Ethiopia's historical loss of sea access was unjust and that understanding this history is key to determining a path forward.
Both members reiterated the importance of informed public engagement and diplomatic efforts to maintain peaceful relations with neighboring countries while pursuing Ethiopia's maritime interests.
