MOGADISHU, Somalia – Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said his country is seeking “peaceful access” to the Red Sea to support its growing economy and population of over 120 million.
In his address to Parliament, PM Abiy emphasized that Ethiopia’s approach focuses on dialogue and cooperation rather than confrontation. He aims to secure essential trade routes for the nation’s economic growth and development.
“We do not need war or force to achieve our goals; we prefer to pursue them through reasonable and fair means,” he stated. “If we do not succeed, our children will,” he added.
His remarks came a day after Somalia declared Ethiopian diplomat Ali Mohamed Aden persona non grata, ordering him to leave within 72 hours for allegedly “engaging in acts that are incompatible with his status.”
Aden, known as “Ali Garre,” is a colonel in Ethiopia’s military intelligence. He reportedly traveled to various regions in Somalia under the guise of his diplomatic position, believed to be the reason for his expulsion. Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not yet issued a response.
Tensions between Somalia and Ethiopia emerged earlier this year when Prime Minister Abiy signed a controversial ‘sea-access-for-recognition’ Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Somaliland, a breakaway region of Somalia.
Somalia, viewing Somaliland as part of its territory, sees Ethiopia’s MoU as a violation of its sovereignty. In response, it invited Egypt to join the new AU mission, resulting in a diplomatic rift that includes the expulsion of the Ethiopian ambassador and calls for the withdrawal of all Ethiopian troops from Somalia.
Egypt accepted the invitation and has initiated a military buildup in Somalia, raising security concerns for Ethiopia amid ongoing disputes over Nile water. This development has further escalated tensions in the Horn of Africa.
In late August, Egypt sent a ship carrying weapons, armored vehicles, and other supplies to Mogadishu. Additionally, Egypt plans to deploy at least 10,000 troops to Somalia, raising alarms in Ethiopia, which views Egypt as a longstanding regional rival.
Egypt has also aligned with Somalia in its diplomatic dispute with Ethiopia over the controversial MoU with Somaliland. This deal grants Ethiopia access to a 20-kilometer stretch of Red Sea coastline in exchange for potential recognition of Somaliland as independent, heightening tensions between the neighboring nations.
Ethiopia has firmly denied any links to Somalia’s allegations and rejected claims regarding the MoU signed with Somaliland. This situation carries significant implications for regional stability, as Somalia accuses Ethiopia of attempting annexation, while Ethiopia denies the allegation, leading to ongoing territorial conflicts between the two countries.
