Ethiopia and Russia have initiated discussions for naval cooperation focused on training and capacity building. Led by Admiral Vladimir Vorobyev, a Russian delegation visited Ethiopian naval facilities, resulting in a commitment to enhance Ethiopia’s naval development. Commodore Jemal Tufisa emphasized the importance of this cooperation for safeguarding Ethiopia’s maritime interests. Previous engagements have laid a foundation for this collaboration, which aims to bolster Ethiopia’s naval capabilities.
The navies of Ethiopia and Russia are exploring opportunities for cooperation, particularly in training and enhancing naval capabilities. This initiative emerged during a recent visit by a Russian delegation to Ethiopian naval facilities in Bishoftu, approximately 45 kilometers from Addis Abeba. The delegation was headed by Admiral Vladimir Vorobyev, the Russian Navy’s Deputy Commander, as reported by the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF).
Both nations have expressed commitment to advancing Ethiopia’s naval infrastructure and operational readiness, culminating in a formal agreement aimed at fostering collaboration in naval activities. Commodore Jemal Tufisa, the Ethiopian Navy’s Deputy Commander for Operations, noted that the focus would be on training programs and capacity building. He also highlighted the Russian navy’s dedication to reinforcing Ethiopia’s maritime capabilities and protecting its interests in international waters.
The current discussions build on prior engagements, including a visit by a Russian delegation in February 2022. At that time, Major General Ostrikov remarked upon Ethiopia’s initiatives to modernize its naval forces and establish a robust institution that fosters national pride. During this visit, an agreement was reached to cooperate in various training sectors.
In March 2022, Rear Admiral Kindu Gezu, then Commander-in-Chief of the developing Ethiopian Navy, reaffirmed Ethiopia’s goal of establishing a navy capable of defending against both internal and external threats. This statement was made during a visit to the Navy Basic Training School, where he emphasized the importance of rigorous training for the cadets.
Despite being a landlocked nation in the Horn of Africa, bordering countries such as Eritrea, Somalia, and Sudan, Ethiopia has recently graduated navy members trained in critical fields. A memorandum was signed with Somaliland to enhance access to maritime routes, but progress in this regard remains unreported.
The partnership between Ethiopia and Russia represents a significant step towards the enhancement of Ethiopia’s naval capabilities through joint training and operational collaboration. This relationship underscores Ethiopia’s commitment to strengthening its national defense while navigating its unique geographical challenges as a landlocked country. The continued pursuit of naval modernization reflects Ethiopia’s strategic interests in establishing a competent maritime force and securing access to international waters.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
