Addressing the joint opening session of the two Houses of Parliament, President Taye Atske Selassie firmly asserted that national interest and the dignity of its citizens constitute the fundamental core and anchor of Ethiopia's diplomatic policy.
The President declared that Ethiopia is actively reordering its geostrategic standing, a strategic shift that moves the country from a passive observer role to one that drives the agenda and exerts influence globally. He stressed that while Ethiopia accepts the principle of equitable utilization of its trans-boundary resources, it holds an equal right to secure reliable access to the sea.
President Taye confirmed the government maintains uninterrupted peaceful and diplomatic efforts regarding its major water resources, noting that these efforts successfully navigated challenges facing the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), allowing Ethiopia to wisely complete and inaugurate the project.
Furthermore, he announced that the cause for securing reliable and sustainable sea access has achieved a heightened level of international recognition, attributing this success to Ethiopia's fair and well-presented request. The President also highlighted the government's success in repatriating citizens who endured exploitation abroad.
Regarding domestic stability, President Taye emphasized that "although we possess the capacity to correct and settle conflicts appearing across the country by force, the government holds a firm belief that lasting peace can only be secured through peaceful means." He added that the government "is pursuing a path that benefits future lasting peace with prudence and patience, aiming not to bequeath resentment and bitterness to the next generation."
Looking ahead, the President affirmed the government's responsibility to ensure that the seventh national election (scheduled for next year) is fair, peaceful, democratic, and credible among Ethiopians. He concluded by calling upon all Ethiopian citizens to strengthen their support for the country’s massive transformation initiatives, and urged friends of Ethiopia to stand with the government and people to share in this success.
