Addis Ababa, February 9, 2025 (ENA) – Ambassador Dina Mufti, a member of the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs of the House of People’s Representatives, reaffirmed Ethiopia’s strong commitment to securing maritime access, which could serve as a regional catalyst for growth and cooperation.
Ambassador Dina emphasized that Ethiopia’s pursuit of a maritime outlet is not only critical for national development but also plays a significant role in promoting regional growth and integration.
He explained that Ethiopia’s search for maritime access is firmly rooted in international law and driven by a vision of shared prosperity within the Horn of Africa.
Ambassador Dina, who is also the president of the parliamentary friendship group between Western Europe, the European Union, and Ethiopia, highlighted the considerable benefits that maritime access would bring to Ethiopia, including increased trade, improved logistics and connectivity, which would contribute to economic growth and benefit neighboring countries as well.
He also noted that Ethiopia’s efforts align with the principles of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which affirms the right of landlocked countries to access the sea.
He underscored that Ethiopia’s pursuit of maritime access is a legitimate right protected by international law, aimed at fostering regional cooperation and shared prosperity.
The ambassador’s remarks come at a time when Ethiopia is actively engaged in diplomatic discussions with neighboring countries to identify mutually beneficial solutions for maritime access. The Ethiopian government remains determined to achieve this goal through peaceful and diplomatic means.
Ambassador Dina emphasized that access to a seaport would have a transformative effect on Ethiopia’s economy while fostering regional integration, peace, stability, and competitiveness, thereby enhancing the region’s global economic standing.
He also pointed out that more than 32 landlocked countries worldwide, including 16 in Africa, 14 in Asia, and 2 in Latin America, currently depend on neighboring ports, a right universally recognized by United Nations conventions.
Ethiopia, he asserted, is simply seeking to exercise this legitimate right despite the challenges it faces.
Landlocked countries often face higher transportation costs, inefficiencies due to long transit times and fees, as well as potential disputes with their coastal neighbors.
Thus, Ethiopia’s pursuit of maritime access is not only in its own national interest but also takes into account the broader regional context.
The search for a port by Ethiopia is rooted in a spirit of cooperation, he said, adding that granting Ethiopia maritime access would not only elevate its economy but also bring substantial benefits to the neighboring countries controlling access to the port.
Source: ENA
