The United States has reiterated its strong support for Ethiopia’s pursuit of maritime access, affirming a shared commitment to peaceful and diplomatic avenues that promote regional cooperation and economic integration.
In an exclusive interview with the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia Ervin Massinga recognised Ethiopia’s legitimate aspiration to secure access to the sea—an essential factor for a country of its size, economic ambition, and growing regional role.
“For a nation of Ethiopia’s scale—with a rapidly expanding economy and ambitious growth projections—access to maritime trade is of vital importance,” said Ambassador Massinga. He underscored that the U.S. government and the U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa are fully committed to supporting Ethiopia’s maritime objectives through commercial and diplomatic means.
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Ethiopia’s approach to maritime access—guided by principles of give-and-take, peaceful engagement, and regional economic collaboration—has garnered broad international acknowledgment. The country’s vision of positioning itself as a global economic force requires enhanced infrastructure and connectivity, a goal the U.S. stands ready to support.
The ambassador also highlighted Ethiopia’s strategic role in the Horn of Africa, noting its size, capacity, and influence as central to efforts in stabilising the region. “Working with a country of Ethiopia’s influence and capacity is at the core of the United States’ approach in the Horn of Africa,” he stated.
Ambassador Massinga confirmed that the U.S. is deepening its cooperation with Ethiopia, especially in counterterrorism efforts, to ensure peace and security across the region. The partnership reflects a long-term vision to support prosperity and stability for the peoples of the Horn of Africa.
