Arab League Accession of Ethiopia Serves Common Interests: Ethiopian MP

Addis Ababa, September 4, 2025 (ENA) -- Ethiopian Member of Parliament, Ustaz Kamil Shamsu, has stressed the significance of Ethiopia joining the Arab League, citing shared interests in geography, history, trade, and security.

Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed recently stated that his country is working to become a member of various multilateral institutions, including the Arab League, with a view to fostering shared development and prosperity.

In an interview with the Ethiopian News Agency, Ethiopian Member of Parliament, Ustaz Kamil Shamsu, emphasized the need for closer relations and cooperation with Arab countries, arguing that a unified front could help address the complex challenges facing the region.

Ethiopia has strong historical connections, geographical closeness to the Arabian Peninsula, and its strategic location within the Red Sea basin, all of which render its relationship with the bloc a vital element for regional stability, trade, and investment cooperation, he indicated.  

Ethiopia is also a crucial partner in the fight against terrorism in the Horn of Africa. This could be a great asset to the Arab League in its efforts to combat extremist groups on the Arabian Peninsula. Working together, they could also improve maritime security in the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, protecting important shipping routes from threats like piracy.

Ustaz Kamil pointed out that Ethiopia's long-standing historical and geographic ties with the Arab world make its accession to the Arab League a natural progression.

He believes that strengthening these relationships will facilitate partnerships and enhance cooperation for mutual benefit. The MP noted that some Arab League member states have already shown support for Ethiopia's endeavor.

The lawmaker also suggested that Ethiopia could consider joining other forums that bring together Ethiopians and Arabs, such as the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), which has extended an invitation to Ethiopia.

According to the MP, Ethiopia's extensive experience in international organizations, including its leadership role in the African Union (AU) and IGAD, would be an asset to the Arab League.

He underscored that Ethiopia's political and diplomatic weight, combined with the fact that its capital, Addis Ababa, hosts the AU headquarters, would facilitate better communication and cooperation within the League.

Ustaz Kamil concluded that Ethiopia's accession to these organizations and its cooperation with member states would be beneficial in finding solutions to the region's raging issues and complex problems, especially given the current geopolitical landscape.