Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed declared that Ethiopia does not seek war with Eritrea over sea access, emphasizing diplomacy and mutual benefits instead. Amidst fears of renewed conflict due to tensions in Tigray, Abiy reiterated that development, not conflict, is the priority. While regional stability is crucial, both nations’ historical relations complicate the current landscape.
Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has stated that Ethiopia does not intend to initiate a war with Eritrea for access to the sea. Previously, Abiy had referred to seaport access as an “existential issue” for Ethiopia, which raised concerns about potential military action. During a parliamentary session, he emphasized the necessity of resolving sea access through diplomatic means and mutual benefits, stating, “Our intention is to negotiate based on the principle of give and take.” He asserted that the Eritrean people deserve development rather than conflict and aims to foster collaboration instead of hostility.
Despite Abiy’s reassurances, apprehensions remain regarding a potential conflict between the two nations, particularly in light of unrest in Ethiopia’s Tigray region. A civil war that lasted two years ended in November 2022, but political tensions have resurfaced, leading to fears of renewed violence involving Eritrea. Accusations have arisen that Eritrea is meddling in Tigray’s internal affairs, with Tigray’s Interim President alleging collusion between local rivals and Eritrean interests.
Eritrea’s Foreign Minister Osman Saleh has denied these accusations, asserting the government’s non-involvement in Ethiopia’s crises. Conversely, Ethiopian Foreign Minister Gedion Timotewos indicated suspicions of Eritrean ties with one faction in Tigray, although lacking specific evidence. Eritrea gained independence from Ethiopia in 1993; their relationship has seen a tumultuous history marked by a border war from 1998 and subsequent normalization in 2018, which has since deteriorated.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s declarations underline Ethiopia’s desire for peaceful negotiations regarding maritime access with Eritrea. While he emphasizes diplomatic resolutions and economic development, fears of renewed conflict persist, particularly amidst tensions in Tigray. Both nations’ histories remain complex and fraught with political implications that continue to challenge relations, necessitating careful attention to both internal and external pressures that might reignite discord.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
