Finland Expresses Backs for Ethiopia’s Diplomatic Efforts to Secure Sea Access  

Addis Ababa, May 15, 2026 —Finland has expressed backs for Ethiopia’s efforts to secure access to the sea and its pivotal role in promoting peace and stability in the Horn of Africa.

The remarks were made during discussions between the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs of Ethiopian House of People’s Representatives (HPR) and Finnish Member of Parliament Kimmo Kiljunen, accompanied by Finland’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Sinikka Antila.

 

According to a social media post by the HPR, the talks focused on the geopolitical situation in the Horn of Africa and ways to strengthen the longstanding partnership between Ethiopia and Finland in areas including trade, investment, technology transfer, and other fields of cooperation.

Member of the Standing Committee Dina Mufti recalled the historic relations between the two countries and stressed the need to further deepen bilateral ties.

He noted that Ethiopia, in collaboration with the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, has been working to advance peace and regional development in Eastern Africa, reaffirming the country’s commitment to maintaining peace and security across the region.

 

Ambassador Dina also elaborated on Ethiopia’s position regarding sea access, stating that the country’s growing demand for maritime access is shaped by historical, geographic, demographic, and economic realities.

He emphasized that Ethiopia’s approach is rooted in peaceful negotiations, mutual benefit, diplomatic engagement, and agreements designed to create shared advantages for neighboring countries.

The ambassador further highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing reform agenda, including economic liberalization measures, efforts to expand investment opportunities, and initiatives aimed at consolidating national peace and stability.

For his part, Kiljunen described Ethiopia as a strategic and leading partner for Finland in Africa, noting the longstanding relationship between the two countries.

 

He reaffirmed Finland’s readiness to cooperate with Ethiopia in supporting peace and security initiatives, including efforts to combat terrorism in East Africa and across the continent.

Kiljunen also reiterated Finland’s support for Ethiopia’s pursuit of seaport access through peaceful and diplomatic channels.

Ambassador Antila stated that Finland is currently cooperating with Ethiopia in the fields of digitalization, telecommunications, and solar energy, adding that collaboration in these sectors will continue to expand.