Addis Ababa: Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s recent remarks regarding Ethiopia’s aim to secure access to a seaport have been highlighted by American Political-Economic analyst Lawrence Freeman as a definitive end to the war mongering propaganda about annexation and confrontation in the region.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the Prime Minister addressed parliament on Thursday, emphasizing that Ethiopia’s quest for Red Sea access will not lead to conflicts with neighboring countries. He underscored the country’s commitment to peaceful negotiations and highlighted the growing international support for Ethiopia’s peaceful pursuits.
Freeman, in a Zoom interview with Ethiopian News Agency, praised PM Abiy’s clear intention to pursue peaceful dialogue with neighboring countries to establish a port on the Red Sea. He criticized the recent surge in war mongering rhetoric, which falsely suggested Ethiopia intended to annex territory from Eritrea or Somalia.
Freeman pointed out the strategic importance of having a seaport for Ethiopia, describing it as fundamental to the region’s economic growth. He noted that an additional port would not only benefit Ethiopia but also generate revenue and jobs across East Africa.
He urged for an end to the misleading rhetoric that heightens conflict in the Horn of Africa and called for a realistic discussion on Ethiopia’s legitimate need for sea access. Freeman emphasized that PM Abiy’s comments should quell any propaganda about annexation, paving the way for discussions on regional economic integration.
Addressing the specific propaganda concerning Eritrea, PM Abiy reiterated Ethiopia’s commitment to dialogue rather than conflict over sea access. He stressed that access to the sea is essential for Ethiopia’s future development.
Freeman remarked that the escalation of such propaganda stems from those fixated on past conflicts between Ethiopia and Eritrea, urging a shift in focus towards future potential. He supported PM Abiy’s vision for a future where Ethiopia’s access to the Red Sea is realized, benefiting the entire region.