Ethiopia has secured a pivotal agreement at the 3rd United Nations Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, paving the way for unrestricted access to maritime routes.

Fathe Mahdi (PhD), Deputy Chairman of the Standing Committee on Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs, with the FDRE House of People's Representatives, emphasised the significance, stating, "This is where we reclaimed our maritime rights; where we made our voices heard."

The agreement, effective from 2024 to 2034, aims to alleviate economic constraints faced by landlocked nations by granting them unconditional access to neighbouring countries' transit routes without fees.

This milestone follows Ethiopia's persistent advocacy for secure and reliable transit corridors through diplomatic channels, a position articulated at the UN General Assembly.

Beyond the landmark deal, the conference facilitated crucial discussions on bolstering international collaboration, forging financial partnerships, and enhancing infrastructure development. Ethiopia has championed a ten-year plan designed to revolutionise transport and logistics, urging the global community to provide essential support.

Fathe underscored that Ethiopia is revisiting and raising the question of maritime access at international forums, demonstrating a renewed commitment to resolving the long-standing issue.

The nation's proactive engagement signifies a turning point in its quest for secure and accessible trade routes.