Ethiopia reaffirms Nile, Red Sea interests, calls for regional dialogue

Ethiopia has reaffirmed what it describes as its legitimate interests in the Nile River and the Red Sea, while calling for peaceful engagement and regional cooperation.

In a press statement issued Monday, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the country’s geographical and historical ties to both the Nile basin and the Red Sea should be taken into account in discussions over the region’s water resources and maritime security.

The ministry said Ethiopia is the source of the Abay River, commonly known as the Blue Nile, which originates in the Ethiopian highlands and contributes about 85 per cent of the Nile River’s total flow.

“Any discussion concerning the utilization and management of the Abay River should be informed by these fundamental realities,” the ministry said.

On the Red Sea, Ethiopia said it remains geographically and historically connected to the maritime body despite changes in political boundaries over time.

The ministry noted that Ethiopia’s nearest border is about 30 miles from the Red Sea coast and argued that regional maritime affairs and security arrangements should take into account what it called Ethiopia’s “legitimate interests” and enduring connection to the Red Sea.

The statement also warned against attempts to alter what Ethiopia considers its established geographical and historical realities through political rhetoric, coercive measures or destabilising actions.

“Actions taken through proxies or acts of aggression will not change the facts on the ground,” the ministry said, adding that such actions would not diminish Ethiopia’s interests, role and responsibilities in the region.

Ethiopia nevertheless said it remains committed to peaceful engagement, mutual respect and regional cooperation.

The ministry urged regional actors to address shared challenges through constructive dialogue, partnership and adherence to the principles of good neighbourliness, rather than confrontation and “zero-sum approaches.”

The statement was issued by Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on October 5, 2026.

Mustaqbal