Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) stated that Ethiopia’s loss of access to the Red Sea was the result of internal negligence and the opportunism of external forces that intervened during periods of domestic strife.
The Prime Minister made these remarks while addressing the opening of the historic Ethiopian National Dialogue, held at the Addis Ababa International Convention Center.
During his address, the Prime Minister explained that Ethiopia became a "geographical prisoner" lacking direct access to the sea largely due to a legacy of unelected and unrepresentative leadership, plagued by political intrigue, conspiracy, internal division, and apathy.
Describing this historical loss as a manifestation of an "evil intent," the Prime Minister emphasized that no force can obstruct Ethiopia's national aspirations or interests. "Our failure was not due to a lack of capacity, but rather a result of our own internal shortcomings," he asserted.
Describing the current gathering as a rare historic moment, Prime Minister Abiy noted that "some opportunities provide you with the pen and parchment to write your own history." He underscored that this national dialogue provides a wide-ranging opportunity to build the nation and craft a legacy that will be remembered for generations.
The Prime Minister stressed that the primary objective of the dialogue is not merely to seek temporary solutions for today, but to secure the fate of future generations. "Do not consult for today; consult for tomorrow.
Consult for the sake of your grandchildren," he urged the participants. He reminded the assembly that Ethiopia has paid a heavy price in the past for failing to engage in such inclusive dialogue, adding that this process is a vital opportunity to heal the wounds of past generations and spare future ones from repeating historical mistakes.
Identifying "mediation, compensation, and forgiveness" as the secrets to Ethiopia's resilience, the Prime Minister called on all participants to ensure that no group is sidelined or harmed during the deliberations. He urged delegates to prioritize national interests over personal agendas.
Using a poignant metaphor, he noted, "A bee that abandons its hive cannot produce honey; to produce honey, one must remain in the hive." He urged the participants to commit their hearts and minds to listening to one another, emphasizing that mutual listening is the only path to a successful outcome.
Highlighting the political, economic, and military reforms achieved over the past few years, the Prime Minister affirmed the government's commitment to building upon these successes to ensure Ethiopia's future prosperity.
Concluding his address, Prime Minister Abiy extended the government's formal gratitude to the Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission which has spent the past four years navigating complex challenges to reach this historic milestone and to all those who played a positive role in the process.
The Ethiopian National Dialogue Commission officially launched the highly anticipated historic dialogue today, July 15, 2026, marking the beginning of a process intended to foster national consensus and lasting stability.
