Dehai News

Somalia Rebuffs Ethiopia’s Bid to Gain Direct Access to Red Sea Port

Posted by: Semere Asmelash

Date: Wednesday, 18 October 2023

Somalia Rebuffs Ethiopia’s Bid to Gain Direct Access to Red Sea Port

  • -Ethiopia has called for talks with neighbors on harbor access
  • -Somalia to retain control of strategic assets, minister says
A tanker ship anchored in the Red Sea. 

A tanker ship anchored in the Red Sea. 

Photographer: Mohammed Huwais/AFP/Getty Images

Somalia rejected an appeal from Ethiopia to enter into negotiations with a view to granting it access to a Red Sea port.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed last week warned that his country’s lack of access to a harbor is a potential source of future conflict and called for efforts to address the issue in order to safeguard regional stability. Ethiopia lost its direct access to the sea in 1993 when Eritrea gained independence after a three-decade war.
Access to a Red Sea port is a crucial issue for Ethiopia. Without direct access to the sea, the country faces challenges in terms of trade and transportation. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has highlighted the potential risks and conflicts that could arise from this lack of access. Efforts to find a solution and ensure regional stability are necessary to address this issue.

In 1993, Ethiopia lost its direct access to the sea when Eritrea gained independence after a long and devastating war. This historical event has had significant implications for Ethiopia’s trade and transportation capabilities. The loss of access to a Red Sea port has been a longstanding issue, and the recent rejection of Ethiopia’s appeal by Somalia further complicates the situation.

It is crucial for regional stability and cooperation that efforts are made to find a resolution to this issue. The lack of access to a Red Sea port not only affects Ethiopia but also has broader implications for the region. Negotiations and diplomatic efforts will be key in addressing this complex and sensitive matter.

Somalia Rejects Ethiopia's Appeal for Red Sea Access ...