There are forces plotting to block Ethiopia’s path to the sea: Army Chief.

Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, Chief of Staff of Ethiopian National Defenses Forces (ENDF), told the Foreign Relations and Peace Affairs Standing Committee of the House of People’s Representatives (HoPR) on Wednesday that there are forces plotting to block Ethiopia’s path to the sea.

“There are forces who are working to prevent Ethiopia from getting close to the sea,” Field Marshal Birhanu said.

“Sometimes they form alliances with deliberate plans to ensure that Ethiopia gets nowhere near the sea” he said, adding that such efforts lack “any real justification.

”The Field Marshal assured the MPs that despite these challenges, the National Defense Forces are “diligently working to ensure lasting peace and security in East Africa,” and to ensure Ethiopia’s “unwavering commitment to gaining access to the sea, fostering regional cooperation, and achieving shared prosperity.

”He also noted that “plans to secure sea access and establish a capable navy” are already in motion, alongside efforts to build a military “strong enough to defend the nation against threats both on land and at sea.”