ADDIS ABABA – Member of Parliament Mohammed Al-Arousi stated on Sunday that Ethiopia’s pursuit of direct access to a seaport is a “peaceful strategic priority” driven by economic necessity and long-term national security.
In an exclusive interview, Al-Arousi argued that relying on a single maritime gateway—primarily through Djibouti—leaves Ethiopia’s 130 million citizens vulnerable to external political and economic shocks.
He emphasized that the country’s lack of maritime access is a “major strategic challenge” that requires diplomatic solutions.
“Ethiopia’s fate should not remain dependent on external factors,” Al-Arousi said, noting that the government is exploring innovative partnerships and regional integration to lower import costs.
He dismissed claims that Ethiopia’s ambitions pose a military threat to its neighbors, asserting that the strategy is rooted in “mutual benefit” and the desire to strengthen the manufacturing and agricultural sectors through diversified logistics routes.
