Ethiopia’s Historical Maritime Connections and Naval Capacity Offer Path to Greater Red Sea Security

Addis Ababa, October 19, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia’s historical maritime experience and naval capabilities can contribute to addressing security challenges in the Red Sea, while the country pursues its maritime interests through legal and diplomatic channels, Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) Project Coordination Office CEO Aregawi Berhe has said.

Aregawi said Ethiopia had maintained maritime connections for centuries, using Red Sea ports and shipping routes for trade, national defense and the development of naval capabilities.

He cited Zeila, Massawa and Assab as ports historically connected to Ethiopia, stressing that the loss of direct sea access had not erased the country’s historical ties or legal interests in maritime affairs.

Aregawi underscored the importance of presenting Ethiopia’s legal, historical and operational experience to the international community while pursuing its maritime interests through lawful and diplomatic means.

He said Ethiopia’s commitment to safeguarding its national interests had gained renewed attention following the country’s political reforms, sharply criticizing the previous EPRDF-led government for failing to advance Ethiopia’s maritime interests.

“During the EPRDF regime, no meaningful diplomatic work was done. Work that was outright contradictory was done. Work that opposed Ethiopia’s interests were carried out,” he said.

Aregawi said the current government had genuinely taken up the responsibility of safeguarding Ethiopia’s national interests. He added that public support for the country’s maritime aspirations was growing, strengthening alignment between the government and the people.

“The Ethiopian people are also grasping this understanding and supporting it. Therefore, if there is alignment between the government and the people, there is no reason why we cannot secure our rights,” he said.

He also argued that Ethiopia’s long-standing state institutions and governance experience could contribute to stability in the Red Sea region and beyond.

“Ethiopia is a country with a long history that has established governmental system since ancient times. This ancient governmental system has made Ethiopia subject to law and order,” Aregawi said.

He maintained that strengthening Ethiopia’s institutional capacity and developing naval capabilities could help protect national interests while contributing to maritime security across the region.

According to Aregawi, the GERD demonstrates Ethiopia’s ability to undertake major national projects through domestic expertise and collective effort, as reported by ENA.

He expressed confidence that similar determination and cooperation could advance the country’s maritime ambitions and contribute to regional peace and security.