ADDIS ABABA – Ethiopia’s diplomatic efforts to secure alternative sea access routes are gaining international momentum, with Pakistan becoming one of the latest countries to express strong support for the initiative, highlighting its broader implications for regional peace, trade, and integration.
Speaking exclusively to The Ethiopian Herald, Pakistan’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Atif Sharif Mian hailed Ethiopia as a driving economic force in East Africa. Citing the country’s large population and impressive economic trajectory, he referred to Ethiopia as an “economic powerhouse” whose prosperity is pivotal to the entire region.
“The destiny of East Africa is closely linked to Ethiopia’s future,” Ambassador Atif stated. He emphasized that equitable port access for Ethiopia is not just a national concern but a regional priority that can accelerate economic integration and stability.
The ambassador underscored the role of continental frameworks such as the African Union and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in facilitating dialogue and cooperation on trade logistics and maritime access. He called for collaborative regional solutions to eliminate barriers to trade and support landlocked nations like Ethiopia.
On Ethiopia’s side, Ambassador Jemal Beker, the country’s envoy to Pakistan, highlighted a paradigm shift in the national discourse surrounding sea access. What was once a sensitive and politically avoided issue has now emerged as a key component of Ethiopia’s foreign policy agenda.
“The topic of sea access is no longer taboo. We are openly engaging the international community to build consensus and understanding around Ethiopia’s rightful need for maritime access,” said Ambassador Jemal. He stressed that these efforts are being pursued diplomatically and peacefully.
He noted that discussions are already underway with various nations, including Pakistan, to build diplomatic alliances that can support Ethiopia’s strategic objectives. “Pakistan has shown a clear interest in supporting Ethiopia’s peaceful efforts in this area,” he affirmed.
Ambassador Jemal also pointed to the Ankara Agreement as a potential breakthrough in fostering improved relations between Ethiopia and Somalia—an essential factor in the sea access dialogue. “The international community must understand Ethiopia’s strategic and economic imperatives. We are committed to engaging constructively and transparently with our neighbors and partners,” he said.
BY EYUEL KIFLU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SUNDAY EDITION 13, July 2025
