AMN PLUS-March 05/ 2026
Beyond advancing national interests, Ethiopia’s aspiration to secure seaport ownership is crucial for strengthening trade ties at both regional and continental levels, Ambassador Dina Mufti said.
The Ambassador made the remarks during a panel discussion held at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University (AASTU) under the theme “Ethiopia’s Sea and Port Access Quest: Historical Rights and Legal Claims.”
Ambassador Dina Mufti, who serves as a member of the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs of Ethiopia’s House of Peoples’ Representatives, emphasized that securing seaport ownership would lay the foundation for establishing a free and robust trade zone in the region.
Dina noted that Ethiopia’s access to a seaport would not only benefit the country but also contribute to broader economic integration across Africa.
The Ambassador further called on African nations to recognize Ethiopia’s continued contribution to regional peace and stability, underscoring that the success of its seaport quest would ensure mutual benefits.
President of AASTU, Dereje Engida (PhD), stated that the university remains committed to fulfilling the responsibility of the current generation by organizing academic forums that address critical national interests and safeguard the country’s long-term aspirations.
During the discussion, economist and political scholar Dugasa Mulugeta (PhD) presented a paper highlighting that the circumstances under which Ethiopia lost its seaport lack clear historical and legal foundation.
The president explained that Ethiopia’s current approach is grounded in cooperation and a principle of “give and take,” aimed at achieving peaceful and mutually beneficial access to a seaport.
The panel discussion also highlighted the significant social and economic challenges Ethiopia faces due to the absence of direct sea access.
The gathering underscored the importance of fostering a unified national understanding of the issue and standing together in pursuit of a common objective.
It was concluded that achieving Ethiopia’s seaport access requires coordinated diplomatic engagement, strengthened internal capacity, and enhanced public unity to realize the country’s long-standing aspiration.
By Leta Teresa
