Ethiopia's Strategic Role, Influence Growing: IFS Executive Director

Addis Ababa, October 22, 2026 (ENA) — Ethiopia's strategic role and influence in the Horn of Africa has been steadily consolidated, Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFS) Executive Director Abdiwasa Abdilahi said.

A policy dialogue jointly organized by the Ethiopian National Defense College and the Institute of Foreign Affairs is underway under the theme "Unity or treason? Anti-Ethiopia Coalition: Where to?".

Speaking on the occasion, the Executive Director underscored that Ethiopia is reinforcing its strategic role across the region.

To sustain the momentum, he emphasized the vital need to anchor domestic unity on mutual benefit, mutual respect, and a shared long-term national vision.

He further said internal differences must be resolved strictly through peaceful, political, and democratic avenues.

Relying on external powers or proxy wars to resolve internal issues serves no national interest, Abdiwasa stressed.

With regard to sovereign seaport access, he stated that Ethiopia is actively engaging neighboring countries through dialogue, agreement, and the principle of shared benefit.

He pointed out that milestones achieved in the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam as well as advancements in agriculture, infrastructure, urban development, and technology, are the fruits of collective national effort.

Sustaining these achievements remains crucial to enhance the country's strategic capability, he added.

For his part, Commandant of the Defense University of the National Defense Force Lieutenant General Desalegn Teshome said the forum aims to foster policy discussions on Ethiopia's national interest, sovereignty, regional role, and long-term strategic continuity.

Various initiatives are being pursued to bolster Ethiopia's strategic, geopolitical, and economic standing, thereby amplifying its influence in the region, he added.

He noted the imperative of examining issues stemming from internal historical challenges and external geopolitical pressures through a strategic prism.

In particular, Lieutenant General Desalegn stressed the necessity of thoroughly analyzing the impact of losing sea access and the associated geopolitical constraints exerted on the nation's strategic strength.

National Defense College Commandant Brigadier General Tilahun Demissie, highlighted that collusion between internal elements and external adversaries to fabricate instability poses a direct threat to national unity and regional stability.

He underscored the importance of joint consultations and sustainable solutions to fortify Ethiopia's state building and strategic resilience.

The forum is set to deliberate on regional geopolitical dynamics, Ethiopia's strategic posture, Ethio-Eritrea relations, and security developments.