EEC emphasizes unified effort for sea access

ADDIS ABABA-Ongoing and effective diplomatic efforts, supported by global backing, are essential to securing Ethiopia’s quest for sea access, with active participation from all Ethiopians, stated the Ethiopian Employers Confederation (EEC).

In an interview with the Ethiopian Press Agency (EPA), Ethiopian Employers’ Confederation President Eng. Getahun Hussein emphasized that the demand for sea access is vital for national survival and requires robust diplomatic engagement to ensure international understanding and support.

He highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to achieve sea access while underscoring the need to reflect on historical contexts and the importance of this access, given Ethiopia’s large population and growing economy.

Getahun stressed that diplomatic responsibility should not rest solely with the government. Similar to the Abbay Dam initiative, he called for a collective effort involving all Ethiopians, including those  abroad and Ethiopia’s allies, to address this critical national issue.

He noted that being landlocked renders a nation vulnerable to external pressures, complicating development efforts, while dependence on foreign ports is unlikely to yield meaningful progress.

He further stressed the importance of peacefully communicating Ethiopia’s reality to the international community.

Getahun also highlighted the need for neighboring countries to recognize and support Ethiopia’s requirements. Regarding Eritrea’s secession, the President described it as an injustice imposed without the Ethiopian people’s consent, limiting mutual economic and social integration since then.

He criticized efforts to divide the culturally and linguistically unified peoples of Ethiopia and Eritrea, advocating for a vision of shared prosperity. Despite past divisions, he expressed confidence in the desire for closer collaboration between the two nations.

The President reiterated the importance of continuous public diplomacy to enhance economic ties and stated that many Eritrean intellectuals recognize the shared aspirations of their people for cooperation with Ethiopians.

BY FIKADU BELAY

THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD WEDNESDAY 30 APRIL 2025

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