Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and senior Ethiopian military leaders held talks on Tuesday with General Dagvin R.M. Anderson of the U.S. Africa Command, with both sides highlighting Ethiopia’s bid for sea access and broader regional security cooperation.
Abiy said on his social media accounts that he had welcomed General Anderson in the morning for “a constructive exchange on regional security and opportunities for enhanced cooperation.” He did not provide further details on the discussions.
According to a statement from Ethiopia’s Ministry of Defense, General Anderson later met Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, Chief of General Staff of the Ethiopian Armed Forces, for talks focused on peace and stability in the Horn of Africa and the future of Ethiopia–U.S. military cooperation.
Field Marshal Birhanu was quoted as telling the U.S. delegation that “Ethiopia’s desire for a sea outlet is for peaceful purposes and to build its economy.” The ministry said he also underlined that Ethiopia seeks to advance its maritime interests through dialogue and cooperation, not confrontation.
The Defense Ministry added that General Anderson expressed support for Ethiopia’s efforts to secure access to the sea through peaceful means. He reportedly stated that “if Ethiopia gains access to the Red Sea, it will contribute more significantly to the peace of the region.” The statement also said that the General indicated he would speak with officials in Washington, D.C., regarding Ethiopia’s interests and the plans it has adopted to ensure peace in the region.
The discussions further covered counterterrorism cooperation, with both sides reaffirming the importance of joint efforts against terrorist groups operating in the region, according to the ministry.
Addis Standard
