Ambassador Zerihun: Sea Access Vital for Ethiopia's Survival

Speaking at the 12th Tana High-Level Forum on Security in Africa in Bahir Dar, Ambassador Zerihun stated that Ethiopia's pursuit of sea access is a matter of national survival. He emphasized that Ethiopia cannot be excluded from discussions regarding the Red Sea due to its strategic position and regional security interests. During the event, National Intelligence and Security Service (NISS) Director General Redwan Hussein also highlighted the economic importance of the Red Sea for Ethiopia, warning that increased militarization and attacks on commercial shipping in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait threaten regional stability. He called for collective action from regional states to ensure security. The forum continues with policymakers and diplomats examining the evolving geopolitical landscape of the Horn of Africa.