Geopolitical expert says Ethiopia needs to capitalize on diplomatic leverage for regional stability

Addis Ababa, November 25, 2024 (FBC) – Ethiopia must capitalize on its geostrategic advantages and diplomatic leverage to ensure stability and prosperity across the Horn of Africa region, Senior Researcher at the Institute of Foreign Affairs, Anteneh Getachew underscored.

In an exclusive interview with the Ethiopian News Agency, Anteneh highlighted the strategic significance of the Red Sea region.

The Horn of Africa connects Europe and Asia via a short route along the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, facilitating over 12 percent of global trade, Anteneh stated.

A shift in Ethiopia’s diplomatic strategy to prioritize economic, trade, and commercial diplomacy is imperative, he emphasized

Explaining this diplomatic shift following the regional dynamics, the research said: “We need to rethink our approach and focus on leveraging our strategic position to advance our national interests.”

Ethiopia, as a landlocked country, has been calling for leaders of member states of the Horn region, regional actors and international community to recognize its legitimate right for sea outlets along the Red Sea region based on peaceful means, mutual respect and shared interests with coastal countries.

The country cannot hold itself aloof from emerging regional issues that could significantly affect its vital interest.

Given its close proximity to the Red Sea and other adjacent states, as well as its growing economic demands and regional security concerns, Ethiopia must secure sea outlets in the Red Sea peacefully based on the principle of mutual benefit and expedition of regional integration.

Describing the region plagued by “vicious conflicts, extremism, piracy, and rivalries among regional players, Anteneh emphasized Ethiopia’s unwavering position for pursuing common regional destiny of stability and development.

Stating that Ethiopia is a stable country in the most turbulent region, Anteneh recalled the country’s historical role as a peace broker, including mediating conflicts in Sudan and South Sudan, underscoring its capacity to lead the region to this effect.

Furthermore, its rich diplomatic history has been a strong foundation to advocate for Africa’s common position in multilateral diplomacy such as in global climate finance discussions, he recalled.

The researcher also mentioned Ethiopia’s diplomatic leverage and work together with regional actors for the destiny of the region.

“So we can work with regional players, because the driver of Ethiopian foreign policy is based on our national interest. You know, Ethiopia is the most stable country in the most unstable region of the Horn of Africa. And Ethiopia is regarded as an anchor state in the Horn of Africa, because Ethiopia has better stability, more population, and rapid economic growth.”

Further, Ethiopia’s investments in regional infrastructure and energy projects are key components of its leadership strategy, the researcher recalled.

Through the Belt and Road Initiative, Ethiopia has developed vital connectivity projects like the Trans-African Highway and energy exports to neighboring countries, positioning itself as a regional power hub, he said.

Ethiopia’s leadership in green initiatives, such as the Green Legacy program launched in 2019, further bolsters its standing. “This program has positioned Ethiopia as a leader in Africa’s green transition and a key player in global climate discussions,” he remarked.

Ethiopia’s foreign policy to neighboring countries is firmly rooted in serving national interests on a win-win approach and mutual respect, he added.

The researcher stressed Ethiopia’s need to reinforce navigating proactive and strategic engagement in the region as transforming challenges into opportunities are critical for the region.