Thailand Backs Ethiopia’s Bid For Sea Access

By Mintesinot Nigussie  |  August 31, 2026

Thailand has backed Ethiopia’s efforts to secure access to the sea, with Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow describing the pursuit as legitimate and calling for regional dialogue to address the issue.

Sihasak said Thailand supports Ethiopia’s efforts to obtain maritime access and stressed the need for understanding among countries in the region.

“Ethiopia’s effort to secure access to the sea is legitimate, and countries in the region should take this into consideration,” Sihasak said, according to Ahadu Radio.

The Thai foreign minister said access to the sea is important for trade and investment, linking Ethiopia’s efforts to the country’s economic interests.

He also described the issue as one that requires understanding and agreement with neighbouring countries, signalling support for a negotiated regional approach.

Ethiopia has made securing reliable access to the sea a key foreign-policy priority since Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said in 2023 that the country’s landlocked status should be addressed. Abiy has said Ethiopia’s pursuit of sea access is peaceful and should be pursued through dialogue and mutually beneficial arrangements with neighbouring countries.

Source: FSX Business News