Addis Ababa, July 8, 2026 (FMC) — The United Kingdom has recognized Ethiopia’s ambition to expand commercial access to the sea as a natural requirement driven by its large population, growing economy and increasing trade needs, UK Deputy Ambassador to Ethiopia Luke Bullock said.
Speaking to FMC recently following a tree-planting activity held as part of Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative, Bullock said Ethiopia, a country of about 130 million people with a rapidly growing economy, requires expanded maritime access to facilitate the export of its products and import the materials needed for economic development.
He said it was not surprising that Ethiopia seeks greater access to the sea given its economic trajectory and development requirements.
Bullock noted that Ethiopia currently relies heavily on the Port of Djibouti but has opportunities to enhance its commercial connectivity through other ports in the region, including Berbera Port, through agreements with neighboring countries.
He said the UK recognizes Ethiopia’s desire to strengthen its economic opportunities and supports peaceful arrangements achieved through dialogue and mutual respect that help expand commercial access to the sea.
The Deputy Ambassador stressed that such arrangements should contribute to Ethiopia’s economic growth while promoting cooperation and stability in the region.
Regarding Ethiopia’s national dialogue process, Bullock said the UK wishes Ethiopia success and hopes the process will produce outcomes that strengthen peace, stability and prosperity for all Ethiopians.
Bullock made the remarks after joining members of the diplomatic community in planting trees under Ethiopia’s Green Legacy Initiative.