Ethiopia and Rwanda have signed a defense cooperation agreement, focusing on military collaboration, including counterterrorism and training. This agreement reflects the enduring ties between the two nations and highlights Ethiopia’s broader trend of establishing defense relations with several countries in the region.
On Thursday, Ethiopia and Rwanda formalized their defense cooperation by signing an agreement aimed at enhancing collaboration across various military sectors. Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, Chief of General Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), and Lieutenant General Mubarak Muganga, Army Chief of Staff of Rwanda, engaged in discussions that led to this agreement during Lt. Gen. Muganga’s official visit to Ethiopia.
The agreement, announced in a press statement from both defense institutions, emphasizes the existing partnership between the two nations. Major General Teshome Gemechu, Director General of External Relations and Military Cooperation at the ENDF, noted that Ethiopia and Rwanda have been cooperating on military matters for many years, and this agreement seeks to further bolster their collaboration.
Key areas of cooperation outlined in the agreement include counterterrorism initiatives, training programs, and military capacity building. Brigadier General Patrick Karuretwa, of the Rwanda Defense Force, echoed this sentiment, highlighting Ethiopia’s prompt support to Rwanda during crises, thereby reinforcing Rwanda’s intention to deepen military ties with Ethiopia.
Ethiopia’s defense collaborations are expanding, with Rwanda being the latest country to sign such an agreement. In November 2022, Kenya’s military delegation, led by General Charles Kahariri, reached a similar agreement to enhance their military partnership with Ethiopia. In early March, Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense Affairs held discussions on strengthening military relations with Ethiopian defense officials, further illustrating Ethiopia’s strategic military alignments.
Additionally, September 2023 saw Field Marshal Berhanu visiting South Africa to discuss military cooperation foundations with General Rudzani Maphwanya. Furthermore, Ethiopia and South Sudan signed a defense cooperation agreement in November, emphasizing the growing network of military alliances facilitated by Ethiopia.
The recent defense cooperation agreement between Ethiopia and Rwanda signifies a deepening of military collaborations in the region. It highlights the longstanding relationships between Ethiopia and several countries in Africa and the Middle East, with an emphasis on mutual support, strategic alignment, and strengthening military capabilities. The agreement also illustrates Ethiopia’s commitment to enhancing regional security through partnerships.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
