Ethiopia: Thailand Backs Ethiopia's Push for Sea Access, Calls for Regional Understanding

What the report says

Thailand’s deputy prime minister and foreign minister, Sihasak Phuangketkeow, voiced support for Ethiopia’s push for sea access during an official visit to Addis Ababa, according to Ethiopia’s news agency via AllAfrica. He said Ethiopia’s search for access to a deep-sea port is a legitimate concern and one that should be approached through understanding with neighboring states.

The report places the comments in the context of Ethiopia’s long-running effort to secure a maritime outlet on the Red Sea. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed has repeatedly described the issue as a peaceful national aspiration, while Ethiopian officials argue that the country’s geography, economy and historical links to regional ports make sea access important for trade and investment.

Phuangketkeow suggested that dialogue with leaders and policymakers could produce arrangements giving Ethiopia access to port facilities. He also said countries should move beyond conflict and emphasized cooperation among developing nations and the Global South. Those remarks framed Ethiopia’s port question not only as a bilateral issue, but as part of wider regional diplomacy.

The article highlights why the issue matters: Ethiopia is one of Africa’s most populous landlocked countries, and its maritime access debate remains a significant factor in Horn of Africa politics, regional security and economic integration.