Leaders from Africa and Europe ended their summit with a strong message: sovereignty and territorial integrity are not open for negotiation.
In their joint declaration, they clearly stated they will continue to follow the UN Charter and protect the political independence of every state. They wrote that these principles “cannot be negotiated or compromised,” which is very rare to see in such high-level meetings.
This language comes at a sensitive time. Ethiopia has been speaking repeatedly about gaining “sovereign access” to the Red Sea through Eritrea. Many legal experts and regional observers say this idea has no base in international law.
The summit’s message makes one thing very clear: borders in the Horn of Africa are recognised, final, and protected. It also reminds all countries that they must avoid any threat or use of force to achieve political goals.
For Eritrea, this is important. It confirms again that its sovereignty is respected by both continents and that no one has the right to question its territorial integrity. The declaration also comes at a moment when tensions around the Red Sea are increasing, making respect for borders even more necessary for regional stability.
analysts say this joint statement is a quiet but firm response to Ethiopia’s recent rhetoric. It shows that the international community expects states to follow the law, not to revise borders or demand access by pressure.
