Ethiopia’s Strategic Interests, Historic Ties Bind It to Red Sea: Ambassador Zerihun

Addis Ababa, October 24, 2026 (ENA) —Ethiopia’s strategic importance, historical ties, and geographic realities make its connection to the Red Sea inseparable from its national interests, Director General for African Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Zerihun Abebe said.

Briefing journalists on the sidelines of the 12th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa in Bahir Dar, Ambassador Zerihun underscored that Ethiopia’s pursuit of sea access is rooted in history, geography, and national security.

“We have repeatedly stated that the issue of a sea outlet is a matter of survival for Ethiopia,” he said, adding that the country has developed policy strategies to advance this objective.

He stressed that Ethiopia cannot be excluded from discussions on the Red Sea, given its strategic position, security interests, and role in the wider region.

The evolving regional realities, he added, call for cooperation that takes Ethiopia’s interests into account.

Ambassador Zerihun reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to working with regional countries to advance peace, development, and shared security, describing the Tana Forum as an important platform for strengthening cooperation and addressing common challenges.

He also emphasized the need for a regional anchor capable of contributing to peace, development, and stability, asserting that Ethiopia has historically played—and continues to play—such a role.

The remarks come as regional and international stakeholders gather in Bahir Dar for the Tana Forum’s Special Envoys’ Dialogue, which is examining the evolving geopolitics of the Horn of Africa and mounting security challenges in the Red Sea.

In his welcoming remarks, National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS), Director General Redwan Hussein highlighted the strategic importance of the Red Sea and its maritime trade routes, warning that growing militarization, competition among external powers, and attacks on commercial shipping in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait pose risks to regional stability.

He emphasized that securing the Red Sea requires collective action by regional states and reliable international partners.

He noted that  Ethiopia has significant stake in maritime security as a country dependent on the Red Sea for its international trade.

High-level discussions under the theme: “Regional Security in the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea” brought together African and international envoys to examine the region’s changing security and geopolitical landscape.

The 12th Tana High-Level Forum is being held under the theme “Pathways to Peace in Africa: Economic Sovereignty and Geopolitical Transformation,” bringing together policymakers, diplomats, and other stakeholders to explore African-led responses to the continent’s peace and security challenges.