Ethiopia’s Naval Experience Contributes to Red Sea Security: Aregawi Berhe

Addis Ababa, October 19, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia’s historical experience in naval operations and maritime engagement can significantly contribute to addressing security challenges in the Red Sea region, CEO of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) Project Coordination Office, Aregawi Berhe, said.

Speaking to ENA, Aregawi emphasized that Ethiopia had maintained maritime connections for centuries, using Red Sea ports and shipping routes for trade, national defense and the development of naval capabilities.

He cited Zeila, Massawa and Assab as ports historically connected to Ethiopia, noting that the country’s loss of direct access to the sea had not erased its legal rights and historical ties in maritime affairs.

Aregawi further emphasized the importance of presenting Ethiopia’s legal, historical and operational experience to the international community while pursuing access through legal and diplomatic channels.

He said the country’s approach to safeguarding its national interests had gained renewed attention following the political reforms. 

“During the EPRDF regime, no meaningful diplomatic work was done. Work that was outright contradictory was done. Work that opposed Ethiopia's interests were carried out,” Aregawi said.

Aregawi also clarified that the Ethiopian government has genuinely taken up the belief of safeguarding Ethiopia's national interests. 

The CEO noted the public support for Ethiopia’s maritime interests, saying that alignment between the government and the public has been strengthening the country’s efforts to pursue its objectives.

“The Ethiopian people are also grasping this understanding and supporting it. Therefore, if there is alignment between the government and the people, there is no reason why we cannot secure our rights,” he noted.

Aregawi further argued that Ethiopia’s long-standing state institutions and experience in governance could contribute to stability in the Red Sea region and beyond.

He also stressed that the development of naval capabilities could help Ethiopia protect its national interests while contributing to maritime security in the wider region.

“Ethiopia is a country with a long history that has established governmental system since ancient times. This ancient governmental system has made Ethiopia subject to law and order,” he said.

According to the CEO, this capacity, when strengthened and deployed, can serve not only as an anchor for the immediate Red Sea region but also as a foundation for the entire continent. 

Aregawi further elaborated that the GERD has demonstrated Ethiopia’s capacity to undertake similar major national initiatives through domestic expertise and collective effort, while expressing confidence that similar determination and cooperation could support the country’s maritime ambitions and efforts to contribute to regional peace and security.