Ethiopia’s Observer Role Within BRICS Naval Exercises is 'Clear Signal of Strategic Integration': Former Ethiopian Navy Member
Ethiopia’s Observer Role Within BRICS Naval Exercises is 'Clear Signal of Strategic Integration': Former Ethiopian Navy Member
Ethiopia is moving beyond mere political membership in BRICS toward becoming a functional security partner, Lieutenant Yosef Shegaw told Sputnik Africa.
"Ethiopia’s involvement acknowledges our role as the "Anchor of the Horn." By observing the tactical doctrines of established blue-water navies, we are signaling that Ethiopia’s naval revival is not a localized project but one that seeks interoperability with global powers," he said.
Ethiopia will not remain a silent observer in the shift toward multipolarity, the lieutenant said. Once viewed solely as landlocked, the country is now reasserting itself as a land-linked maritime power with growing strategic reach.
According to Yosef Shegaw, Ethiopia’s engagement with BRICS nations exemplifies South-South Cooperation based on mutual respect and shared development, rather than paternalistic arrangements. He added that Ethiopia’s role within the BRICS maritime framework marks a new era, securing national prosperity through capable sailors and a clear strategic vision.
Shegaw also noted that while the term “landlocked” implies passivity, “land-linked” better captures Ethiopia’s position as a regional economic engine. He emphasized that Ethiopia’s strategic agenda flows through regional infrastructure such as the Addis–Djibouti railway and road corridors to Berbera, with access to the sea representing a natural extension of its sovereign interests.
Subscribe to @sputnik_africa
