PM Abiy Vows Ethiopia Will Secure Sea Access and Strengthen Regional Role

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) addressed a joint session of parliament following his appointment by the House of Peoples’ Representatives to lead Ethiopia for the next five years. During his speech, he declared that his administration will actively pursue access to a seaport as part of a broader ambition to establish a new "Ethiopian civilization." Abiy positioned Ethiopia's maritime ambitions within the context of a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape across the Horn of Africa, the Red Sea, the Persian Gulf, and the Middle East. He emphasized that Ethiopia must play a significantly greater role in shaping regional affairs and security dynamics. To support these strategic objectives, the Prime Minister announced plans to strengthen the national defense capabilities. This includes developing advanced military capacities tailored to the changing regional and global environment, specifically aiming to establish "air superiority" in the region.