Ethiopia is in a push to translate its diplomatic quest of accessing the rest of the world via sea access, which the nation lost due to a grave historic error committed by the then leadership.
The nation turned landlocked three decades ago when Eritrea gained its independence, forcing Ethiopia to invest billions of dollars annually on its export and import trade.
Its request to reclaim access to the sea, according to experts of diverse disciplines, will shape not only the future of the nation, but also the entire East Africa.
Given its large size of population and its strategic importance, failure to accept its fair request of directly reaching out to the rest of the world will cost the globe, say political scientists and economists.
And that’s why the call for sea access earned support with no differences- a request that is now being backed by both international business and water laws.
The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea signed in 1982 in Jamaica allows landlocked countries to use ports located in other countries and to utilize resources on and beneath the sea.
The request raised last year by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed regarding access to the sea has a legal ground and should be taken as an enabling platform for collective interests of the horn and beyond.
Ethiopia has accordingly the right to negotiate in partnership with the neighboring countries to secure access to the sea based on shared benefits.
The country's strategy would help to expedite regional integration as it ensures diplomacy of mutual benefits, according to analysis further detailed by experts.
Ethiopia’s initiative is vital not only for the country but also the other countries in the region, forging strong continental partnership.
The latest move will help to transit from the psychology of selfish ownership and would promote a rightful spirit of cooperation among the countries. It is useful to understand, know and recognize the advantage with irrespective of differences of any sorts
In sum, Ethiopia’s bid for port and sea access needs to be addressed in accordance with Resolution No. 390/5 passed by the United Nations in 1952.