Red Sea Ambitions: Ethiopia’s “Medemer Government” Targets Compromise-Based Maritime Deal
ADDIS ABABA – Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has reiterated that the Ethiopian government remains committed to securing direct access to the Red Sea, emphasizing a willingness to negotiate through the “principle of give and take”.
Speaking shortly after being sworn in for a second term during the inauguration of the 7th parliamentary term of the House of Peoples’ Representatives in Addis Ababa, Prime Minister Abiy stated that access to a maritime outlet is essential for Ethiopia’s long-term economic prosperity and national development.
“Based on the principle of give and take, we will work diligently to ensure that Ethiopia has an outlet to the sea,” Abiy addressed lawmakers, signaling that his administration is open to mutually beneficial compromises with neighboring coastal nations.
The statements come during a period of heightened geopolitical activity surrounding the Red Sea maritime corridor. A day prior to the parliamentary address, neighboring coastal states issued a joint statement asserting that responsibility and governance over the Red Sea rest solely with littoral states bordering its shores.
In response, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs reaffirmed that Addis Ababa prioritizes peaceful dialogue, economic integration, and cooperative engagement across the Horn of Africa while defending its national strategic interests.
