Realizing Ethiopia's quest for seaport will enhance mutual benefits and trade ties in the entire region, President of Jigjiga University, Beshir Abdullahi Mohammoud said. Addressing a panel discussion jointly organized by Jigjiga University and Institute of Foreign Affairs today, Beshir said Ethiopia's quest to seapor is of paramoun imprtance to trade integration in the region. Stating that Ethiopia's obtaining of seaport is vital for countries in the region to work together for economic benefits, he further noted that seaport is important to reduce the high cost of export and import items and attract foreign investment. Getting seaport for Ethiopia is also crucial to enhance trade activities especially in the eastern part of the country and benefit the people, the president said. To this end, the university will carry out research and diplomatic activities for the realization of the country's effort for seaport, he affirmed. Presenting a paper at the panel discussion, Director General of Europe and Amer ica Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Researcher at the Institute, Dareskedar Taye said that securing seaport is an existential matter for Ethiopia. Stating that Ethiopia has plenty of reasons to get a seaport, he said, among others, geopolitical, natural, historical, economical, international laws and security issues. In addition, countries which are landlocked and have seaports do not have equal voice on international stage, the director general said, adding that scholars need to play their role in the country's effort for acquiring a seaport. Inclusive diplomacy, discussion on win-win approach, working with regional and continental organizations, integrating the region with hydro power, engaging scholars and the media have enormous contribution for acquiring Ethiopia's quest for seaport, he pointed out. Source: Ethiopian News Agency Coastguard units from the southern and central maritime districts rescued 77 migrants of various foreign nationalities involved in two irregular sea crossings in Zarzis, Medenine governorate and Mahdia, the Directorate General of the National Guard said in a statement on Saturday. The coastguard in Zarzis rescued 24 migrants of different foreign nationalities after they set sail from the coast of a neighbouring country. They also recovered five bodies. According to the same statement, the coastguard in Mahdia foiled an irregular sea crossing and rescued 53 migrants of different foreign nationalities. The General Directorate of the National Guard added that the Public Prosecutor's Office had authorised the necessary legal measures to be taken against them. Source: Agence Tunis Afrique Presse