Ethiopia’s strategic pursuit of maritime access grounded to principle of mutual respect, regional cooperation

Addis Ababa, May 22, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s strategic pursuit of maritime access is grounded to the principle of mutual respect, transparency and regional cooperation, Lt. General Yimer Mekonnen, Head of Training and Education at the of Defense Forces said.

Lt. General Yimer made the remark speaking at the opening of a high level conference titled “Navigating Gulf-Horn Economic and Security Cooperation: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Directions,” in Addis Ababa today.

He said the cooperation between the Horn of Africa and the Gulf region is not merely diplomatic; it is a matter of regional stability, per POA.

“Our strategic pursuit of maritime access is grounded in mutual respect, transparency, and regional cooperation. We aim to work hand-in-hand with our Gulf and Horn of Africa neighbors for shared prosperity and collective security.

Ethiopia seeks not just assistance but to be a reliable contributor to peace, security, and development across the region. Lt. Gen. Yimer added.

The third regional consultative forum on Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, organized by Institute of Foreign Affairs and Ethiopian Defense Force War College is underway in Addis Ababa.