Addis Ababa Diplomats from Norway and Bangladesh have confirmed that Ethiopia’s quest for sea access is a legitimate and fundamental step towards achieving the country’s economic progress.

In exclusive statements, the envoys highlighted the importance of cooperation and shared prosperity.

Their remarks align with the position of the Prime Minister, who believes the pursuit of sea access should follow a legal, peaceful, and mutually beneficial path.

The Norwegian Ambassador acknowledged Ethiopia’s significant demographic weight and its growing economy.

The Ambassador stated: “This is a national priority. We fully understand the importance of sea access for a nation of this size.”

He expressed confidence that Ethiopia would find sustainable solutions, saying: “I am confident that Ethiopia will find its way… through Djibouti, and perhaps through other channels to reach the sea.”

For his part, the Bangladeshi Ambassador emphasized the strong link between sea access and global trade.

He said: “Sea access is vital for any landlocked country, as it is the most effective gateway for trade and investment. From this perspective, this is a legitimate demand for Ethiopia. This issue should be resolved through mutual agreement and an approach that yields gains for all.”

It was previously reported that the Prime Minister, in his address to the House of Peoples’ Representatives, clarified that Ethiopia’s regional ambitions do not stem from a militaristic tendency, but from a desire to achieve equitable growth and long-term stability in the Horn of Africa.

Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa is the capital and largest city of Ethiopia, founded in 1886 by Emperor Menelik II. It serves as the political and diplomatic heart of Africa, hosting the headquarters of the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. The city’s history is reflected in sites like the National Museum, home to the fossil “Lucy,” and St. George’s Cathedral, symbolizing its resistance against colonial occupation.

Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a historically rich nation in the Horn of Africa, widely considered one of the oldest sites of human existence and home to the ancient Aksumite Kingdom. It is unique in Africa for largely maintaining its sovereignty during the colonial era and is renowned for its rock-hewn churches of Lalibela, its role in early Christianity, and its ancient Orthodox Christian traditions.

Norway

Norway is a Scandinavian nation known for its dramatic fjords, Viking heritage, and deep connection to the sea. Historically, it was unified into a single kingdom around the 9th century and later formed unions with Denmark and Sweden before gaining full independence in 1905. Today, it is celebrated for its prosperous society, stunning natural landscapes, and cultural traditions like “koselig” (coziness).

Bangladesh

Bangladesh is a South Asian country with a rich cultural heritage shaped by its ancient Buddhist and Hindu kingdoms, followed by centuries of Islamic influence during the Mughal period. It gained independence from Pakistan in 1971 after a liberation war, and its history is deeply intertwined with the mighty Ganges-Brahmaputra river delta that defines its landscape. Notable cultural sites include the historic Mosque City of Bagerhat and the ruins of the Buddhist Vihara at Paharpur, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Djibouti

Djibouti is a small but strategically located country in the Horn of Africa, known for its harsh desert landscapes and its capital city of the same name. Historically, it was part of the French Somaliland colony from the late 19th century until it gained independence in 1977. Today, it is culturally diverse, home to the Afar and Somali peoples, and is internationally significant for hosting major foreign military bases and serving as a critical shipping gateway via the Port of Djibouti.

Horn of Africa

The Horn of Africa is a major peninsula in Northeast Africa, comprising the countries of Somalia, Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Djibouti. It is one of the world’s oldest known inhabited regions, with ancient civilizations like the Land of Punt and the Aksumite Empire shaping its early history. The region has long been a critical crossroads for trade and culture, but in the modern era, it has faced significant challenges including political instability, conflict, and recurring droughts.