The Red Sea, through which over 10% of the world's trade passes, and where 11 countries have established military bases and global powers engage in geopolitical maneuvering, is at the heart of Ethiopia's historical claim to a seaport.
Ethiopia's loss of access to the sea due to past mistakes is now a central focus of national reform. This issue, previously neglected, is now being addressed with renewed determination, from shifting mindsets to securing access, according to Dr. Abdi Zenbe, Deputy Director General of the Ethiopian Foreign Affairs Institute.
Historically, Ethiopia was strategically denied access to a seaport and excluded from relevant forums. The Red Sea Forum, established by Saudi Arabia and comprising eight countries, exemplifies this exclusion.
Since the reform, Ethiopia has focused intensely on this issue. Dr. Abdi recalls significant pressure following an agreement with Somaliland, an agreement achieved through skillful diplomacy that frustrated those seeking to destabilize the region.
The Ankara Agreement, he notes, solidified Somalia's recognition and legal support for Ethiopia's claim.
Dr. Abdi emphasizes the strategic, not just economic, importance of a seaport. He argues that landlocked countries face internal instability and stifled innovation, a phenomenon known diplomatically as "Strategic Suffocation."
Currently, Ethiopia relies on Djibouti for over 95% of its sea access, allocating 25% of its national budget to port fees. Lack of a seaport also leaves Ethiopia's imports and exports vulnerable, making them subject to the will of other nations.
Ethiopia is pursuing its claim using the diplomatic principle of "breaking the Anaconda," employing international law and a measured approach to resolve this historical issue.
The United Nations recognizes the right of landlocked countries to equitable access to natural resources in their vicinity, including the right to use and transit adjacent seas, subject to agreements with the coastal state and regional accords.
Dr. Abdi concludes that Ethiopia will continue to strengthen its efforts to secure a seaport, based on these and other legal frameworks.