PM Abiy Impels Somalia to Save Funds and Halt Accusations Against Ethiopia

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed informed lawmakers today that it’s unnecessary for Somalia to bad-mouth Ethiopia elsewhere when issues about Ethiopia’s quest for easy Red Sea access can be hammered out with just a quick flight and an hour’s chat.

“It’s straightforward since we aren’t at odds with the Somali government,” PM Abiy stated, adding that instead, Somalia decided to point fingers at us roundabout manner.

“My suggestion is: stop squandering cash. We burn money when we globe-trot to accuse,” he bluntly noted. “No need for detours—it’s possible to approach us directly in Addis Ababa.” He added the funds could instead “build a walkway or a school in Mogadishu—helping the locals.” He emphasizes.

Highlighting a neighborly foreign policy, Abiy reminded that Somali clans live within Ethiopia’s borders. “We’ve strived for peace in Somalia, and our government shows more respect than any other.” According to PM Abiy, Ethiopia has “empowered” Somalia, acknowledging its unity without question.

Regarding the January 1 MoU with North Western of Somalia, Abiy clarified it was signed post a hearty discussion with all neighbors, not doubting Somali unity.

Countering the narrative that Ethiopia aims to break up Somalia, the Premier rebuked, “If we wanted Somalia dismantled, we wouldn’t sacrifice our children for it.”

Reasserting the demand for sea access, Abiy noted it’s a legitimate, peaceful, and discussion-worthy query, akin to any other resource necessity.

Abiy highlighted Horn of Africa nations with Red Sea access, like Somalia and Djibouti, not producing as much as Ethiopia. “We have richer lands, better water, energy…no issue giving avocados or sharing sea access.” That’s commerce, he stated. “Collaboration is beneficial for the region’s and our children’s future.”

Ethiopia’s query for sea access, he maintained, “cannot be silenced by forbidding its ask.”

Addressing Eritrea, Djibouti, Kenya, Sudan, and Somalia, he emphasized, “You’re our brothers. We mean no harm. We seek peaceful coexistence—Ethiopia is a big sibling, a protector in crises, not a destroyer.”

He added, “But Ethiopia too, asks: Landlocked and with an economy this vast, it’s tough. It’s a national interest matter.” Ethiopia seeks to “resolve this without bloodshed, insults, or wasting money on overseas trips. If a win-win solution exists, Ethiopia’s on board. It’s not wrong if it’s Ethiopia’s interest, just like it isn’t for others,” he said.

On July 1, Ethiopia and Somalia’s foreign ministers convened in Türkiye and resolved to continue discussions in Ankara on September 2. Per the joint statement, the talks were “candid and future-oriented,” with Türkiye mediating.

Earlier this January, the ruling Prosperity Party’s Executive and Central Committee members resolved to bring the MoU to practical agreement, stressing mutual concessions to secure more port access options with neighboring states.