Abay River and Red Sea Inseparable Components of Regional Cooperation, Says GERD Coordination Office Chief

Addis Ababa, October 17, 2026 (ENA) —The Abay River and the Red Sea are inseparable components that strategically foster cooperation in the region, according to Aregawi Berhe, CEO of the Office of the National Council for the Coordination of Public Participation in the Construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).

Speaking at the Nile and Strategic Forum held at the GERD national coordination office, Aregawi emphasized the interconnectedness of the Abay River and the Red Sea. 

He pointed out that Ethiopia has a historical and natural connection to the Red Sea, having maintained international relations through this vital waterway for centuries.

 He recalled that Ethiopia has developed and utilized ports along the Red Sea since ancient times, including Adulis, Zeila, and Assab, highlighting these as examples of economic collaboration.

The CEO stated that the Red Sea has long served as a security guarantee for Ethiopia, underscoring that history supports this assertion. 

He explained that Ethiopia's separation from the Red Sea was the result of conspiracy and stressed that respecting Ethiopia's sovereignty and interests requires collective participation.

Aregawi emphasized the importance of developing a common understanding and urged that Ethiopians must strive for the respect of their sovereignty and national interests.