The United States has officially expressed full support for Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to secure access to the sea through peaceful and diplomatic channels, according to an announcement by the Ethiopian government.
In an interview with the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia, Ervin Massinga, affirmed Washington’s strong backing of Ethiopia’s ambition to obtain port access—an aspiration he described as critical for the country’s economic development and regional stability.
“For a country like Ethiopia, with a growing economy and a large population, access to maritime trade is not just important—it is essential,” said Ambassador Massinga.
He emphasized that the United States is committed to supporting Ethiopia’s goals through trade, diplomacy, and peaceful engagement. This, he noted, reflects the deep alignment between U.S. interests and Ethiopia’s broader regional integration strategy.
Ethiopia has been intensifying its search for a reliable route to the sea, especially in the wake of a controversial 2024 memorandum of understanding signed with Somaliland. That deal triggered a diplomatic row between Ethiopia and Somalia, reigniting longstanding tensions in the region.
Although Ambassador Massinga did not specify which port or route Ethiopia is targeting, his remarks come as Ethiopia strengthens ties with Red Sea coastal nations including Djibouti, Kenya, and the United Arab Emirates—countries seen as key players in its maritime strategy.
