Rwanda has signed a defense cooperation agreement with Ethiopia, marking a significant step in military collaboration. The agreement aims to enhance cooperation in counterterrorism and training. The partnership builds on longstanding military ties between the two nations and follows several recent agreements Ethiopia has made with other countries.
On a Thursday, Rwanda became the latest nation to formalize a defense cooperation agreement with Ethiopia. The signing was conducted by Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, Chief of General Staff of Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), and Lieutenant General Mubarak Muganga, the Army Chief of Staff from Rwanda, during an official visit.
The agreement was established after consultations between senior Ethiopian defense officials and Lt. Gen. Muganga, leading to a press announcement from both countries’ defense institutions. Major General Teshome Gemechu, Director General of External Relations and Military Cooperation at ENDF, stated that Ethiopia and Rwanda have maintained military collaborations over the years and this new agreement would strengthen their ongoing partnership.
The defense agreement encompasses various areas, such as counterterrorism efforts, training, and military capacity-building initiatives. Brigadier General Patrick Karuretwa from the Rwanda Defense Force emphasized the enduring relationship between the two nations, underscoring Ethiopia’s prompt support for Rwanda in challenging times and reaffirming Rwanda’s dedication to enhancing military ties with Ethiopia.
This agreement marks Rwanda as the most recent country to join Ethiopia in similar defense collaborations. Previously, in November 2022, a Kenyan military delegation, led by General Charles Kahariri, met with Field Marshal Berhanu to reinforce military collaboration and explore mutual interests to enhance security.
Earlier discussions also occurred in March 2023, when Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defense, Dr. Khalid bin Mohammed Al Attiyah, convened with Ethiopian defense officials, including Defense Minister Abraham and General Abebaw Tadesse, focusing on strengthening military relations during the 8th Doha International Maritime Defense Exhibition.
In September 2023, Field Marshal Berhanu met with South Africa’s General Rudzani Maphwanya to initiate military cooperation. Additionally, a defense cooperation agreement was signed between Ethiopia and South Sudan after a meeting between Major General Demsew Amenu and Lt. General Marshal Stephen Babanen on November 26 in Addis Abeba. Military collaborations have also been established with the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
In summary, Rwanda’s recent signing of a defense cooperation agreement with Ethiopia emphasizes the strengthening ties between the two countries in military affairs. The agreement aims to enhance collaboration in counterterrorism and military training while highlighting a long Foundation of mutual support. This development reflects Ethiopia’s commitment to fostering strategic military partnerships in the region, as evidenced by previous agreements with various countries, including Kenya, Qatar, South Africa, South Sudan, and the UAE.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
