Eritrea’s Foreign Minister Osman Saleh criticized Ethiopia’s maritime ambitions, labeling them misguided. He urged international intervention to uphold regional sovereignty and rejected accusations of Eritrea’s engagement in Ethiopia’s internal conflicts. Tensions are mounting as various leaders express concern over the potential for renewed warfare. U.S. Senator McCaul called for immediate de-escalation between the countries.
Eritrea’s Foreign Minister Osman Saleh criticized Ethiopia’s ambitions for maritime access, describing them as “misguided and outdated.” He expressed confusion at Ethiopia’s desire for a naval base, urging international pressure for Ethiopia to uphold the sovereignty and territorial integrity of its neighbors during a briefing at the Foreign Ministry in Asmara.
During the briefing, Osman addressed accusations regarding Eritrea’s alleged war preparations against Ethiopia, reaffirming the withdrawal of the Eritrean Defense Forces to recognized borders after the Tigray conflict. He emphasized that claims suggesting Eritrea instigates Ethiopia’s internal issues are unfounded and stem from those opposing Eritrea’s territorial integrity.
On the Pretoria Agreement, Osman maintained it is an internal matter for Ethiopia with no desire for Eritrea to intervene. He dismissed allegations linking Eritrea’s involvement in Tigray’s conflict. The comments come amid rising tensions, with Ethiopia’s former President accusing Eritrea of exploiting divisions within the TPLF, and Tigray officials warning that war could re-emerge.
U.S. Senator Michael McCaul raised alarms about the potential consequences of renewed conflict, urging immediate de-escalation between Ethiopia and Eritrea. Osman reiterated Eritrea’s confusion over Ethiopia’s maritime ambitions, urging the international community to respond to actions that jeopardize regional sovereignty and integrity.
Eritrea continues to express strong opposition to Ethiopia’s maritime ambitions, urging respect for regional sovereignty. The remarks highlight rising tensions between the two nations amid accusations of involvement in internal conflicts. Urgent calls for de-escalation from international figures underscore the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the need for both nations to seek peaceful resolutions.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
