Addis Ababa, July 3, 2025 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) stressed the deep interconnectedness between Ethiopia and its neighbouring countries, emphasizing that none can exist in isolation.
Speaking during the 42nd regular session of the House of People’s Representatives today, the Prime Minister highlighted Ethiopia’s commitment to peaceful cooperation and mutual benefit despite unresolved issues with some neighbours.
Premier Abiy noted that Ethiopia’s pursuit of access to seaports is based on peaceful negotiation and respect for the sovereignty of neighbouring countries. “Ethiopia is a sovereign nation with a large economy, a growing population, and a capable, modern army,” he said, underlining that the country has not engaged in conflict with any neighbour in the past seven years and remains dedicated to peace.
Regarding relations with Eritrea and other neighbours, the Prime Minister affirmed, “We do not seek confrontation and expect the same in return. Our vision is one of shared progress and stability.” However, he cautioned that Ethiopia is prepared to defend itself if its peace is threatened.
On the issue of port access, Abiy stated that Ethiopia cannot fully be a sovereign country without legitimate access to seaports. He underscored the importance of resolving the Red Sea issue through dialogue, respecting the sovereignty of Eritrea and other neighbouring states. “Living together is a matter of give and take,” he remarked, calling for constructive dialogue based on mutual respect.
Turning to regional security, the Prime Minister highlighted Ethiopia’s strong stance against conflict within its borders. He acknowledged the peace brought to the Tigray region through the Pretoria Agreement, which ended daily loss of life and resumed essential services such as telecommunications, banking, and air travel. While displaced residents have begun returning to some areas, efforts continue to ensure all displaced people return home safely.
PM Abiy urged communities, including religious leaders and elders, to promote peace and dialogue rather than conflict, emphasizing that “what Tigray needs is peace and dialogue—not war.” He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to national unity and to resolving differences without violence.
The Prime Minister also praised the Amhara community’s recent public call for peace and development, describing it as a “strong and commendable message.” He encouraged citizens to hold their leaders accountable and stressed that peace requires collective effort. “Peace is something we build together,” Abiy said, highlighting how relative peace has enabled growth in agriculture, mining, and tourism in Ethiopia.
Addressing the root causes of instability, the Prime Minister identified misguided political thinking, power struggles, poverty, unemployment, and racism as key challenges fueling division and conflict. He called on Ethiopians to reject divisive ideologies, confront extremists, and commit to work, education, and unity to achieve lasting peace.
In response to questions on ongoing conflicts, Abiy pointed to lazy politicians and forces attempting to impose their will through violence as the main causes of unrest in some regions, especially Amhara and Oromia.
He emphasized that political ideas cannot be achieved through force or gunfighting, but through elections and peaceful engagement. The Prime Minister urged armed groups to prioritize peace and called on society to reject violence and support stability.
Reiterating Ethiopia’s commitment to peace with its neighbours, Abiy affirmed, “We want to live in peace with all our brothers and sisters. If peace is threatened, we will defend ourselves.” He cautioned those who raise the threat of war that Ethiopia is prepared and has the capacity to prevail while continuing to seek cooperation and mutual growth.
Ethiopia’s Prime Minister concluded by reiterating that Ethiopia’s future is one of prosperity and resilience despite historical challenges. “Ethiopia will prevail; it has enough capacity to prevail. We will prosper in the eyes of our enemies,” he said confidently.