Ethiopia stands firm on peace, stability, and economic integration in the horn – Foreign Minister

Addis Ababa, November 13, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, addressed the Foreign Policy Forum co-hosted by Horn Review and Addis Ababa University today, engaging members of the international community, civil society organizations, and the media in a detailed discussion on Ethiopia’s foreign policy and the evolving dynamics in the Horn of Africa.

A central focus of the forum was the state of relations between Ethiopia and Eritrea.

In his address, Minister Gedion outlined Ethiopia’s foreign policy priorities, emphasizing the country’s steadfast commitment to promoting peace, stability, and regional cooperation. He highlighted Ethiopia’s vision for regional economic integration, rooted in the shared development potential and common destiny of the peoples of the Horn, stressing that dialogue and mutual understanding among neighboring nations are essential to addressing shared challenges and advancing sustainable growth.

Addressing Ethiopia’s relations with Eritrea, Minister Gedion acknowledged provocations and violations of Ethiopia’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, noting that the country has exercised maximum restraint. He emphasized that this restraint reflects Ethiopia’s deliberate pursuit of peace but cautioned that it “should not and cannot be taken as indefinite or unconditional.”

The Minister called on the international community to urge Eritrea to refrain from destabilizing activities and adopt a constructive approach aligned with regional peace and integration. He appealed to international partners “to disabuse the Eritrean government of its misguided policy towards Ethiopia and the region, and to encourage it to take small, tangible steps toward a brighter, cooperative future.”

Minister Gedion also stressed Ethiopia’s critical need for access to the sea, stating, “A vibrant economy that can provide livelihoods for a population of more than 130 million people requires durable and secure access to the sea. Without it, Ethiopia cannot achieve the economic progress needed for sustainable development.” He described this access as an existential matter for the country.

Following his address, a panel discussion allowed participants to raise questions on various policy issues concerning the Horn of Africa. Minister Gedion provided detailed responses, further clarifying Ethiopia’s positions on peace, security, and regional integration.

The forum provided a key platform for Ethiopia to communicate its approach to the complex dynamics in the Horn of Africa, reaffirming the country’s commitment to constructive engagement, sustainable development, and lasting regional stability.