05/10/2026
Press Statement from The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia
Ethiopia is the source of the Abay River, commonly known as the Blue Nile. Virtually all of the Blue Nile originates in the Ethiopian highlands, and the Abay contributes about 85 percent of the Nile River's total flow. Any discussion concerning the utilization and management of the Abay River should be informed by these fundamental realities.
Similarly, the Red Sea is a maritime body to which Ethiopia is both geographically and historically connected. Despite changes in political boundaries over time, Ethiopia remains closely connected to the Red Sea, with its nearest border lying barely 30 miles from the coast. Accordingly, any serious discussion of regional maritime affairs and security architecture must account for Ethiopia's legitimate interests and its enduring connection to the Red Sea.
These geographic and historical realities cannot be altered by political rhetoric, coercive measures, or acts of destabilization. Actions taken through proxies or acts of aggression will not change the facts on the ground, nor will they diminish Ethiopia's legitimate interests, role, and responsibilities in the region.
Ethiopia continues to pursue peaceful engagement, mutual respect, and regional cooperation. Ethiopia stands ready to defend its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and core national interests, while urging all regional actors to address shared challenges through constructive dialogue, partnership, and adherence to the principles of good neighborliness rather than confrontation and zero-sum approaches.
