The United States has expressed support for Ethiopia’s efforts to secure seaport access via commercial, peaceful, and diplomatic agreements.

US Ambassador to Ethiopia Ervin Masinga stated that Ethiopia should explore commercial and diplomatic options to expand its seaport access, emphasizing that the issue is crucial to the country’s economic trajectory.

Speaking to the Ethiopian News Agency, Ambassador Masinga highlighted Ethiopia’s rapid economic growth and projections indicating its continued expansion. He underscored that enhancing access to a seaport is essential to sustaining this progress.

“Supporting such efforts is something that the US government and my embassy will continue to work on,” Masinga said, noting that the United States recognizes the importance of this issue.

Regarding the US-Ethiopia relationship, Masinga explained that Washington’s approach is shaped by Ethiopia’s strategic significance in the region. He emphasized that while Ethiopia’s size is notable, its influence and ability to re-stabilize the region are even more critical.

“This is the fundamental approach of the United States,” he stated, adding, “What the United States does in the Horn of Africa will remain a central point.”