Addis Ababa — Ethiopia's quest for sea port is based on the principle of mutual benefits and partnership that provide amicable opportunity to strengthening shared development.

In his presentation entitled " from a drop of water to the sea, prime Minister Abiy Ahmed stressed that the issue of access to the sea and ports is not a matter of luxury but a vital prerequisite for the survival of the nation.

Accessing sea port is a legitimate question and is based on the peaceful development of these sea ports.

Instructor and researcher on Political Science and International Relations at Dire Dawa University, Surafel Getahun, told ENA that Ethiopia's quest on alternative port facilities in not only a matter of international relations but is also a basic precondition for the security and development of the country.

He added that in terms of population, geopolitical location, economic development, Ethiopia is a country that can impart greater influence in the region.

He noted that as Ethiopia is a landlocked country, the nation is subjected to exorbitant payments for port services in her export and import transactions.

In order to fill the gaps in her economic status, the issue of acquiring and expanding port facilities or having access to alternative port options is of crucial importance, he remarked.

The researcher indicated that the proposal forwarded by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed is based on the principle of give and take and shared development of ports for mutual benefits.

He further noted that Ethiopia's quest for sea ports will create an enabling environment for strong relationship with countries and fulfilment of mutual goals.

The researcher concluded that the government should exhaustively utilize all possibilities including diplomatic and peaceful means to be able to obtain sea ports