Addis Ababa:Ethiopia's efforts to secure access to a seaport have reached an irreversible stage, according to experts in the field.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, Yonas Woldeyes, a member of the Nile and Red Sea Strategic Forum Executive Committee and a legal consultant, emphasized that obtaining a sovereign seaport is crucial for Ethiopia. This quest is supported by international law, economic development needs, and geographical factors that promise mutual benefits in the region.
Yonas highlighted the need for Ethiopia to have its own seaport due to ongoing major national projects, such as the construction of the Bishoftu Airport, a large fertilizer factory, oil refinery facilities, and energy infrastructure. He stated that relying solely on the Port of Djibouti causes significant container delays, which negatively impact the business community and the economy. Therefore, securing direct sea access has become a necessity for Ethiopia's development and existence.
The expert warned against certain actors who might distort Ethiopia's legitimate quest and mislead the international community. He stressed the importance of building a shared understanding among Ethiopians, supported by scientific evidence, regarding their sea and water resources access.
Mulugeta Ayele, a Peace and Security researcher at Addis Ababa University, echoed these sentiments. He noted that while other nations travel great distances to secure their interests in the Red Sea, denying Ethiopia—situated just 60 kilometers from the Red Sea—such access is unacceptable. He underscored Ethiopia's right to safeguard its interests in the region as indispensable.
Mulugeta also mentioned that Ethiopia's approach to gaining sea access aligns with principles of give-and-take and international norms, and its acceptance is increasing. He suggested that Ethiopia's return to the Red Sea would contribute significantly to regional peace and stability, particularly in light of piracy and criminal activities in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden.
