ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia — October 5, 2026: Ethiopia has reaffirmed what it describes as its legitimate interests in the Nile River and the Red Sea, calling for regional disputes to be addressed through dialogue, cooperation and respect for national sovereignty.
In a press statement issued on Sunday, Ethiopia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the Abay River, commonly known as the Blue Nile, originates in the Ethiopian highlands and contributes about 85 percent of the Nile River’s total flow. The ministry said these geographical realities should be taken into account in discussions over the use and management of the river.
The statement also highlighted Ethiopia’s historical and geographical ties to the Red Sea. Addis Ababa said the country’s nearest border is about 30 kilometres from the Red Sea coast and argued that regional discussions on maritime affairs and security should recognize what it called Ethiopia’s “legitimate interests” and enduring connection to the Red Sea.
Ethiopia said such geographical and historical realities cannot be changed through political rhetoric, coercive measures or destabilizing actions. It warned that actions carried out through proxies or acts of aggression would not diminish Ethiopia’s role and responsibilities in the region.
The government said it remains committed to peaceful engagement, mutual respect and regional cooperation, while maintaining that it is prepared to defend its sovereignty, territorial integrity and core national interests.
The statement concluded by urging regional actors to address shared challenges through constructive dialogue and partnership, based on the principles of good neighbourliness rather than confrontation and zero-sum approaches.
Source: Ethiopia Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Press Statement, 5 October 2026.
