Macron backs Ethiopia's sea access plans

French President Emmanuel Macron visited Ethiopia, meeting with Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Addis Ababa for significant diplomatic discussions. The visit centered on Ethiopia's aspirations for Red Sea access and regional stability.

During their talks, Ahmed sought French support for Ethiopia's maritime ambitions amid ongoing negotiations with Somalia, currently mediated by Turkey. Macron endorsed Ethiopia's quest for sea access as "legitimate" while emphasizing the importance of diplomatic dialogue and respect for international law.

The meeting addressed the recent controversy surrounding Ethiopia's deal with Somaliland, where Ethiopia had agreed to recognize Somaliland's independence in exchange for port access. This agreement, signed in January, had sparked tensions with Somalia, which considers Somaliland part of its territory.

A breakthrough emerged through the Ankara Declaration on December 11, where Somalia and Ethiopia, under Turkish mediation, agreed to technical negotiations about sea access, scheduled to begin in February and conclude within four months. Both nations committed to respecting each other's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Macron also discussed Ethiopia's internal affairs, particularly the implementation of the Pretoria agreement that ended the Tigray conflict. He pledged French support for conflict-affected populations and emphasized the importance of transitional justice.

The visit included a tour of the renovated National Palace, a project supported by French funding and expertise. France's commitment to Ethiopian cultural heritage extends to the restoration of the Rock-Hewn Churches at Lalibela, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This marks Macron's second Ethiopian visit in six years, reinforcing Franco-Ethiopian diplomatic ties and cooperation.