During the 3rd regular meeting of the 4th year of the House of Representatives held yesterday, the Prime Minister stated the importance of Ethiopia’s access to the Red Sea. “Ethiopia has an unshakable national interest; the world should hear today that Ethiopia needs access to the Red Sea in a peaceful way,” he said.

The Prime Minister expressed that there is no need to be hesitant about Ethiopia’s Red Sea interests, saying, “We don’t want war or force, but we will pursue this through legal means and negotiations with other countries.”

He also clarified the agreement Ethiopia signed with Somaliland, dismissing rumors that suggested Ethiopia was taking over Somali territories. “We have signed a 50-year lease, not a confiscation of territory,” he stated.

Addressing concerns about Ethiopia’s relationship with Somalia, the Prime Minister explained that Ethiopia has no hostile intentions towards its neighboring country. He emphasized the need for a sea gateway for Ethiopia in the Red Sea.

Prime Minister Abiy also addressed fears of potential invasions, stating that no country could invade Ethiopia by force.

meanwhile, tensions with Somalia have increased following Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland. Somalia recently signed a tripartite agreement with Egypt and Eritrea, causing further strain in the region.

Additionally, Egypt has deployed weapons and soldiers in Somalia following a defense agreement between the two countries, which has contributed to a reduction in tensions in the region.