PM Says Ethiopia’s Policy Towards Neighboring Countries Anchored on Collaboration, Mutual Dev’t

Addis Ababa: Ethiopia's diplomatic policy towards neighboring countries is based on collaboration and mutual development, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed reiterated.Highlighting Ethiopia's diplomatic priorities to the 36th regular session of the House of People's Representatives today, he noted the government's determination to resolve disputes with Sudan and bring internal peace to Sudan through negotiations.The Sudanese people are peace-loving and they have strong social bonds with the Ethiopians, the premier said.He also cited the strong relations with Ethiopia's neighbors, mentioning their shared history, cultural ties and longstanding diplomatic relations.According to him, the Ethiopian people and government are non-partisan to the parties involved in the ongoing conflict in Sudan."We are desirous that the conflict be resolved peacefully," the PM said.Also, Ethiopia could have reclaimed the Al-Fashqa area during this time of conflict in Sudan, but we are waiting patiently until the rivals in Sudan resolve their differences and the country becomes peaceful, he elaborated.In addition, Ethiopia has continued to export electricity to Sudan throughout the conflict without making a request for immediate payment, Abiy added.With respect to relations with Somalia, he recalled the brotherly relations and cooperation with Somalia.Ethiopia has paid dearly to peace and development of the neighboring state Somalia.The PM recalled the sacrifices paid by Ethiopian soldiers in Somalia to ensure the peace and stability of the country.Ethiopia not only respects Somalia's sovereignty and territorial integrity but also strongly desires its peace, Abiy reiterated.With regarding to the MoU signed with Somaliland, he underscored that the deal has been part of Ethiopia's effort to get access to sea and should not be considered as violation of territorial integrity.The premier stressed that Ethiopia's quest for access to sea is legitimate and in line with its national interest.Given its big economy, the country should not be deprived of access to the sea, the PM underlined.Furthermore, Ethiopia is ready to deal with Somalia on pertinent issues based on win-win approach and through negotiation.The premier summed up that Ethiopia's interest is to work together with neighboring countries Djibouti, Eritrea, Kenya, Sudan, Somalia for regional cooperation, peace and mutual development.Source: Ethiopian News Agency