Ethiopia’s peaceful diplomacy on seaport access earns int’l backing: Foreign Minister

Addis Ababa, April 14, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s Foreign Minister, Mr. Gedion Timothewos (PhD), claimed that his country’s pursuit of direct access to a seaport through peaceful diplomatic channels is receiving increasing international support.

The Minister made these remarks during a briefing on Ethiopia’s diplomatic activities over the first 100 days of the third quarter, alongside a review of the overall macroeconomic progress achieved over the past nine months.

The briefing, officiated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD), highlighted the progress made in implementing the country’s comprehensive macroeconomic reforms during the 2017 E.C. (2024/25) fiscal year.

Foreign Minister Gedion pointed to several diplomatic milestones, including Ethiopia’s active engagement in the BRICS platform, its successful hosting of the 38th African Union Summit, and its election to the Peace and Security Council of the African Union.

He emphasized that Ethiopia’s engagement in these forums has strengthened the country’s global standing and provided new opportunities to promote its national interests.

One of the key issues discussed by the Minister was Ethiopia’s continued pursuit of direct access to the sea.

The Foreign Minister noted that Ethiopia has resolved key differences with its neighboring countries concerning maritime access through peaceful diplomatic negotiations. This, he said, has laid the groundwork for growing international backing for Ethiopia’s cause.

“The strides we’ve made in our diplomatic efforts are not only securing regional peace but also bolstering international support for our legitimate quest on direct access to the sea,” Gedion explained.

He also pointed out that these successes are further reinforced by Ethiopia’s ongoing macroeconomic reforms, which are enhancing the country’s regional influence, particularly in the energy sector.

As Ethiopia continues to strengthen its economic ties within the East African region, the Foreign Minister emphasized that the country’s growth is creating broader regional opportunities.

The Foreign Minister reiterated that Ethiopia’s diplomatic efforts have advanced the country’s national interests, securing stronger international recognition and positioning the nation as a key player on both regional and global platforms.