Addis Ababa | Tahsas 21, 2018 E.C.
Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Gedion Timothewos, has reaffirmed that the country’s demand for access to the sea is not the agenda of a single government or political party, but rather a strategic, generational national question that transcends administrations and political interests.
Speaking today during the 6th regular session of the 6th House of Peoples’ Representatives, the Foreign Minister responded to questions raised by members of parliament regarding Ethiopia’s foreign policy priorities and regional diplomacy. In his briefing, Dr. Gedion emphasized that Ethiopia’s quest for maritime access is a long-term national objective rooted in the country’s fundamental interests and future development.
“The issue of securing access to the sea is a generational responsibility and a cross-generational national goal,” the Minister stated, underscoring that it reflects Ethiopia’s broader economic, security, and geopolitical imperatives rather than short-term political calculations.
Dr. Gedion further noted that numerous Ethiopians and Ethiopians by origin, both at home and abroad, are actively contributing to efforts aimed at safeguarding Ethiopia’s maritime interests. He highlighted that these contributions extend beyond government institutions, demonstrating a broad-based national engagement on the issue.
In this regard, the Foreign Minister expressed special appreciation to citizens who have been advocating for Ethiopia’s maritime rights through various media platforms, often without any form of government support. He described their efforts as a powerful expression of civic responsibility and national commitment.
Additionally, Dr. Gedion commended the role of Ethiopian embassies across different countries, stating that their ongoing diplomatic initiatives to articulate and advance Ethiopia’s maritime interests are both encouraging and impactful.
Concluding his remarks, the Minister stressed that the responsibility of defending Ethiopia’s national interests through diplomacy does not rest solely on the government. He called on all citizens to play their part, emphasizing that collective national engagement is essential in advancing Ethiopia’s strategic objectives on the international stage.
— HornCurrent News
