ADDIS ABABA: The second-round regional consultative forum on Red Sea security dynamics is underway in Addis Ababa, aiming to foster dialogue and cooperation.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, the forum, hosted under the theme “Regional Consultative Forum on Red Sea Security Dynamics: The Need for Dialogue and Cooperation at a Time of Global Geopolitical Shifts,” has brought together geopolitical experts from East Africa and the Middle East, as well as diplomats. The forum is deliberating on the Red Sea maritime security situation, particularly war and unprecedented challenges in the region. In his keynote address, IFA Executive Director Jafar Bedru emphasized that the Red Sea is an integral part of Ethiopia’s history and a vital global commercial route with continuous security dynamics.

Jafar noted that Ethiopia seeks dialogue and cooperation to ensure durable peace and development across the Red Sea region. “Ethiopia is the largest country in this Red Sea region, and our contribution in this part of the region is extremely important,” he said. Highlighting Ethiopia’s role in the Red Sea region and its historical significance, he mentioned the Memorandum of Understanding the country signed with Somaliland. Jafar affirmed that Ethiopia will reinforce its cooperation with countries across the Red Sea region and relevant institutions.

The First Annual Regional Consultative Forum was held last year under the theme “Red Sea Security Dynamics: The Need for Regional Cooperation in a Time of Entanglement.”