Ethiopia's Quest for Sea Access Need to be Resolved Through Mutual Agreements: Russia's Ambassador

Addis Ababa, November 1, 2025 (ENA) – Ethiopia's quest for sea access should be primarily negotiated by the parties directly involved, mutual agreements, and open dialogue, Russia's Ambassador Evgeny Terekhin told ENA.

Russia's Ambassador to Ethiopia, Evgeny Terekhin recognized the importance of sea access for every nation.

Nearly one-third of the UN's member states lack coastal access due to various challenges, however, many of these issues are being addressed and viable solutions are emerging, he noted.

"We understand the need for sea access for any country and solutions are emerging for addressing the challenges.”

The Ambassador stated that the resolution of Ethiopia's quest for sea access should be primarily negotiated by the parties directly involved, grounded in international law, mutual agreements, and open dialogue.

"This issue should be decided first of all between the parties involved in the issue on the basis of international law, agreements and conversations," he stressed.

Therefore, constructive dialogue and cooperation remain vital in addressing this issue of securing sea access for Ethiopia.

Recall that Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed recently told members of the parliament: "We have spoken to the US, China, Russia, Europe, and Africa. AEthiopia's quest for Red Sea access is inevitable, we give priority for peace and dialogue; plead with them to mediate us and offer us solution.”

The manner in which Ethiopia lost its access to the Red Sea lacked legal background without the involvement cabinet decision, parliament approval or referendum of the Ethiopian people, the Prime Minister emphasized.

Underscoring the urgency of regaining access to the Red Sea, the Prime Minister reaffirmed the government's position of pursue the issue through legal and peaceful dialogue.