ADDIS ABABA: Any dialogue initiative on Red Sea security that excludes Ethiopia cannot succeed, stated the Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA) during the Second Red Sea Dialogue held in Addis Ababa.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, governance related to the Red Sea must include Ethiopia to be effective. The Red Sea offers critical opportunities for trade, economic growth, and access to natural resources, making its security vital. Jafar emphasized that recent geopolitical shifts necessitate serious engagement from all stakeholders to ensure shared security. He highlighted Ethiopia’s proximity, economic and demographic significance, and historical ties to the Red Sea as reasons for its essential role in regional governance. Eshete Tilahun from the Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs added that inclusive cooperation is crucial for maritime security and sustainable development. Idd Bedel Mohammed, Chairman of the US-Somalia Business Council, underscored the need for collaboration among Red Sea nations, particularly Ethiopia, Somalia, Eritrea, and Djibouti, for mutual development. The dialogue, themed “Regional Consultative Forum on Red Sea Security Dynamics,” brought together think tanks, diplomats
, and geopolitical experts from the Middle East, Horn of Africa, and beyond.

The forum aimed to produce policy recommendations for the Red Sea region’s future governance and cooperation.