Ethiopia Hosts 2nd Red Sea Dialogue Conference in Addis Ababa Amid Geopolitical Shifts

On May 30, 2024, the Institute of Foreign Affairs (IFA) hosted the 2nd Regional Consultative Forum on Red Sea Security Dynamics in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The event aimed to enhance dialogue and cooperation among regional partners against the backdrop of global geopolitical changes.

The Red Sea region is a critical global commercial route, and ensuring maritime security and cooperation among regional partners is vital for international trade and economic stability. Failure to address the security challenges in the region could lead to disruptions in global supply chains and have far-reaching economic consequences.

The forum gathered geopolitical experts from East Africa and the Middle East, alongside diplomats, to discuss the maritime security situation in the Red Sea. The discussions focused on issues such as conflicts and emerging challenges in the region.

In his keynote address, Jafar Bedru, Executive Director of the Institute of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the historical significance of the Red Sea to Ethiopia and its critical role as a global commercial route. Bedru stated, "Ethiopia is the largest country in this Red Sea region. And our contribution in this part of the region is extremely important."

Bedru emphasized Ethiopia's commitment to promoting dialogue and cooperation to ensure lasting peace and development across the Red Sea region. He noted that Ethiopia has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Somaliland as part of its efforts to strengthen regional cooperation.

The 2nd Regional Consultative Forum follows the first forum held last year, which focused on the theme "Red Sea Security Dynamics: The Need for Regional Cooperation in a Time of Complexity." These forums are part of Ethiopia's broader strategy to address the complex security dynamics of the Red Sea region.

With Ethiopia being the largest country in the Red Sea region, its role in maintaining maritime security is vital. The country aims to reinforce its cooperation with neighboring countries and relevant institutions to tackle the ongoing challenges effectively.

The Red Sea remains a vital commercial route with continuous security challenges. Ethiopia's initiative to host such forums highlights its commitment to regional stability and development.

The 2nd Regional Consultative Forum on Red Sea Security Dynamics in Addis Ababa underscored Ethiopia's proactive role in promoting dialogue and cooperation for peace and development in the region.

Key Takeaways

• The Institute of Foreign Affairs hosted the 2nd Regional Consultative Forum on Red Sea Security Dynamics in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
• The Red Sea region is a critical global commercial route, requiring maritime security and cooperation among regional partners.
• The forum gathered experts and diplomats to discuss maritime security challenges and emerging conflicts in the region.
• Ethiopia is committed to promoting dialogue and cooperation to ensure lasting peace and development across the Red Sea region.
• The country aims to reinforce cooperation with neighboring countries and institutions to tackle ongoing security challenges.