On Thursday, March 20, 2025, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed addressed questions from members of parliament, emphasizing that Ethiopia has no intention of attacking Eritrea over access to the Red Sea. This statement comes amidst heightened tensions between the two nations following Abiy’s remarks in October last year, where he described securing a sea gateway for Ethiopia as a matter of existential importance.

During yesterday’s parliamentary session, Prime Minister Abiy emphasized the importance of dialogue rooted in mutual benefit and cooperation. ‘Let us discuss Ethiopia’s needs on the principles of give-and-take, mutual benefit, and market-driven solutions. There is no need for conflict,’ he stated.

The Prime Minister emphasized that Eritrean people’s foremost need is development, highlighting the significance of collaboration. ‘It is not our desire to harm one another. We must focus on development and working together,’ he stated. Abiy also stressed that the Red Sea is a shared resource, not a source of conflict. ‘Our interest in the Red Sea should not lead to disputes with Somalia, Djibouti, Eritrea, or Kenya,’ the Prime Minister remarked, pointing out that the region’s 5,000 beaches are sufficient for all.

He also stated that the Ethiopian government’s stance on the Red Sea and the Nile has been clearly communicated to neighboring countries. ‘Recently, there have been rumors of a potential conflict with the Eritrean government,’ the Prime Minister noted. He reiterated, ‘Ethiopia has no intention of invading Eritrea for the sake of the Red Sea.

Abiy stressed the necessity of a sea gateway for Ethiopia, a nation of over 120 million people. “We have no fear of any country invading Ethiopia or halting the progress we have initiated,” he declared. He assured parliament that Ethiopia is well-prepared to defend its interests and emphasized the international community’s recognition of Ethiopia’s right to access the sea. “No major country in the world remains landlocked. This should be addressed through principles of give-and-take,” he explained.

The Prime Minister also highlighted Ethiopia’s peaceful relations with neighboring countries during his tenure. “There should be no Provocation from any side. If Provocation occurs, the response will be severe,” he warned, while assuring that Ethiopia would not instigate any aggression.

Reiterating the importance of the Red Sea for Ethiopia’s survival, Abiy called on international powers to support Ethiopia’s quest for a sea gateway. “Any government, individual, or group that claims to advocate peace should engage with our neighbors to address Ethiopia’s concerns through legal and business frameworks, creating solutions that benefit all parties,” he urged.

It is recalled that last year, Ethiopia and Somaliland signed a 50-year lease agreement, reportedly granting Ethiopia the right to establish military and commercial bases in Somaliland. Following this agreement, Ethiopia and Somalia, previously under tension, which recently reconciled through the mediation of the Turkish government.

Currently, Ethiopia relies on Djibouti’s 31-kilometer port for 95% of its exports. In October last year, Abiy described the pursuit of a sea gateway as “a matter of existence” during a parliamentary session.